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BMC Cancer
Published in: BMC Cancer 1/2024

Open Access 01-12-2024 | Research

Oncologists’ perceptions of tumor genomic profiling and barriers to communicating secondary hereditary risks to African American cancer patients

Authors: Michael J. Hall, Paul A. D’Avanzo, Yana Chertock, Patrick J. A. Kelly, Jesse Brajuha, Katie Singley, Caseem C. Luck, Sarah B. Bass

Published in: BMC Cancer | Issue 1/2024

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Abstract

Background

Tumor genomic profiling (TGP) identifies targets for precision cancer treatments, but also secondary hereditary risks. Oncologists are poorly trained to communicate the results of TGP, especially among patients with lower health literacy, poorer genetics knowledge, and higher mistrust. African American (AA) patients are especially vulnerable to poor understanding due to significant cancer disparities and lower uptake of TGP. The goal of this research is to inform the development of an internet-based brief educational support for oncologists to prepare them to provide better decisional support related to TGP for their AA cancer patients.

Methods

This mixed-methods study used semi-structured interviews of oncologists to inform development of an online survey with a convenience sample of US-based oncologists (n = 50) to assess perceptions of the challenges of TGP and communicating results to AA patients.

Results

Most interviewed oncologists felt it was important to consider racial/cultural differences when communicating about hereditary risks. Cost, family dynamics, discrimination concerns, and medical mistrust were identified as particularly salient. Survey respondents’ views related to AAs and perceptions of TGP were strongly associated with years since completing training, with recent graduates expressing stronger agreement with statements identifying barriers/disadvantages to TGP for AA patients.

Conclusions

Oncologists who had more recently completed training expressed more negative perceptions of TGP and more perceived challenges in communicating about TGP with their AA patients. Focused training for oncologists that addresses barriers specific to AAs may be helpful in supporting improved communication about TGP and improved decisional support for AA patients with cancer considering TGP to evaluate their tumors.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Oncologists’ perceptions of tumor genomic profiling and barriers to communicating secondary hereditary risks to African American cancer patients
Authors
Michael J. Hall
Paul A. D’Avanzo
Yana Chertock
Patrick J. A. Kelly
Jesse Brajuha
Katie Singley
Caseem C. Luck
Sarah B. Bass
Publication date
01-12-2024
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Cancer / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2407
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-024-12184-y

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