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Genetics of Colorectal Cancer (PDQ®)
Health Professional Version   Last Modified: 12/19/2008
Table 7B. Summary of Studies Evaluating Interest in or Intention to Have Genetic Counseling and Testing for Lynch Syndromea

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 Lynch syndrome GC [15] 31 CRCs; 34 unaffected Precounseling: 100% (29). GT intention among CRCs who were aware of GT. 92% (30) GT intention among unaffecteds who were aware of GT
Post-counseling: no one decided against testing, but 5 unaffecteds (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 colorectal cancer.

References

  1. 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]

  2. 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]

  3. 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]


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