Who gets the information about genetic testing for cancer risk? The role of race/ethnicity, immigration status, and primary care clinicians.

This study identified factors associated with awareness of genetic testing for cancer risk in the US general population. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to analyze data from the 2000 National Health Interview Survey. The strong predictors were education, race/ethnicity, immigration status, health status, interaction with health professionals, controlling for socioeconomic status, cancer diagnosis, family history of cancer, and perceived personal cancer risk. The substantial lack of awareness of genetic testing among immigrant and ethnic populations warrants further research and tailored educational interventions. Ways to improve quality of patient interactions with non-genetic clinicians in promoting public knowledge of genetic testing for cancer risk are also worthy of further exploration.