Disparities in Cancer Genetic Risk Assessment and Testing

Oncol Nurs Forum. 2016 Jul 1;43(4):519-23. doi: 10.1188/16.ONF.519-523.

Abstract

Scientific and technologic advances in genomics have revolutionized genetic counseling and testing, targeted therapy, and cancer screening and prevention. Among younger women, African American and Hispanic women have a higher rate of cancers that are associated with hereditary cancer risk, such as triple-negative breast cancer, which is linked to poorer outcomes. Therefore, genetic testing is particularly important in diverse populations. Unfortunately, all races and ethnic groups are not well represented in current genetic testing practices, leading to disparities in cancer prevention and early detection.

Keywords: breast cancer; genetic testing; health disparities; ovarian cancer; risk assessment.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Black or African American / statistics & numerical data
  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Early Detection of Cancer / ethics*
  • Ethnicity / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Genetic Testing / ethics*
  • Healthcare Disparities / ethics*
  • Hispanic or Latino / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Racism / ethics*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • United States