Table 14. Summary of Studies Evaluating Interest in or Intention to Have Genetic Counseling and Testing for Lynch Syndrome (LS)a
| Study Population | Nb | Interest or Intention in GC or GTc |
| Unaffectedd FDRs of CRC patients undergoing treatment [11] | 45 | 51% definite GT intention; 31% probable |
| CRC patients and unaffected individuals undergoing LS GC [15] | 31 CRCs; 34 unaffected | Precounseling: 100% (29). GT intention among CRCs who were aware of GT. 92% (30) GT intention among unaffected who were aware of GT |
| Postcounseling: no one decided against testing, but 5 unaffected (18%); 1 CRC undecided | ||
| CRC patients, unaffected FDRs, and age/gender-matched controls recruited from HCCR and driver’s license/Medicare records [9] | 105 | If relative is a carrier: GT intention for 67% of CRCs; 75% of FDRs; 60% of controls |
| If insurance covers cost: GT intention for 17% of CRCs; 75% of FDRs; 40% of controls |
| CRC = colorectal cancer; FDR = first-degree relative; GC = genetic counseling; GT = genetic testing; HCCR = hereditary colon cancer registry. | ||
| aAll studies used a cross-sectional design, with the exception of one study, which used focus groups.[9] All studies were conducted in the United States, with the exception of one German study.[15] | ||
| bIndicates number of participants older than 18 y, unless otherwise specified. | ||
| cType of genetic test not specified. | ||
| dUnaffected = no previous diagnosis of CRC. |
References
- Ramsey SD, Wilson S, Spencer A, et al.: Attitudes towards genetic screening for predisposition to colon cancer among cancer patients, their relatives and members of the community. Results of focus group interviews. Community Genet 6 (1): 29-36, 2003. [PUBMED Abstract]
- Lerman C, Marshall J, Audrain J, et al.: Genetic testing for colon cancer susceptibility: Anticipated reactions of patients and challenges to providers. Int J Cancer 69 (1): 58-61, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
- Keller M, Jost R, Haunstetter CM, et al.: Comprehensive genetic counseling for families at risk for HNPCC: impact on distress and perceptions. Genet Test 6 (4): 291-302, 2002. [PUBMED Abstract]
