Abstract for presentation at 11th International Congress of Human Genetics

Genetic Services for Hereditary Breast/Ovarian and Colorectal Cancers: Physicians’ awareness, utilization and satisfaction

  • Dr June Carroll, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Canada
  • Dr Mario Cappelli, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Canada
  • Dr Fiona Miller, CHEPA, McMaster University, Canada
  • Dr Brenda Wilson, University of Ottawa, Canada
  • Dr Eva Grunfeld, Dalhousie University, Canada
  • Dr Corien Pieters, University of Ottawa, Canada
  • Dr Alasdair Hunter, Canada
  • Dr Preeti Prakash, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Canada

    • Purpose: In 2000, the Ontario (Canada) Ministry of Health introduced a publicly funded program to provide genetic services for hereditary breast/ovarian and colorectal cancers. Physicians received a mailing notifying them of the service and listing guidelines for genetics referral. As part of the evaluation of cancer genetics services, our purpose was to determine physician awareness, utilization and satisfaction with this new program.
    Methods: Cross-sectional survey of a random sample of 25% of Ontario family physicians (FPs) who were members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, and all Ontario gastroenterologists, general surgeons, gynecologists and radiation, surgical and medical oncologists, using a mailed, self-administered questionnaire in 2003.
    Results: Response rate 49% (3990 mailed, 1069 excluded for incorrect address/ineligibility leaving 1430 completed surveys). Mean age 46, 56% male, 66% urban practice. Awareness of genetic testing for breast/ovarian cancer was high (n=1278, 91%) but much less for colorectal cancer (n=849, 60%). Most (n=919, 64%) had referred to cancer genetics services in the past year, referring a mean of 4 patients (range 3-15). Use of cancer genetics services was associated with physician age of 40 or greater, urban location, confidence in knowledge of referral criteria, confidence in core competencies in genetics and awareness of the program and where to refer. Almost half were dissatisfied with notification about the program, with some dissatisfied with availability and timeliness of cancer genetics services. About half wanted changes, mainly increased education and improved access for patients.
    Conclusion: Ontario physicians are aware of cancer genetics services and use is associated with increased knowledge and skills. They would welcome more timely services and more education about hereditary cancers and susceptibility testing.

    Conference Organiser - ICMS Pty Ltd