Genetic counselling and testing for breast and ovarian cancer in Asia: a multinational survey of unmet needs (Poster Presentation)

Abstract

Background: Enabling equitable access to healthcare services among women remains a challenge in Asia. Differences in the presentation and treatment stage contribute to disparities in cancer outcomes. Genetic testing provides accurate risk assessment to help guide personalised preventative and treatment options. However, there is a critical need for research to further our understanding of barriers in leveraging optimal benefits of genetic testing and counselling (GT&C) to address cancer among women. Methods: A team of multinational experts was assembled to form the Asian Consensus and Recommendations on Genetic Testing and Counselling (ACROSS) Consortium to assess the challenges in adoption of GT&C for patients with breast and ovarian cancer in Asia. Critical publications were identified, and a pre-meeting questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire was refined to align with the objectives over iterations, and final approval was obtained from the steering committee. Survey responses were gathered from oncologists from ten countries across Asia. The expert committee discussed the survey results to highlight (1) current knowledge, attitude, and practices; (2) unmet needs and gaps; and (3) recommendations for addressing critical obstacles. Results: Adoption of GT&C for cancer is low in Asia. Lack of time, resources, and access to genetic counsellors are major difficulties faced. In most cases, the practising oncologists provide pre-test genetic counselling and communicate test results. For breast cancer (BC), most experts preferred germline testing only, with few opting for somatic testing if germline testing was negative. The agreement was lower among the ovarian cancer (OC) experts, with advocates for either germline or somatic testing or both. There was a lack of consensus on clinical criteria for selecting suitable candidates for genetic testing and the use of multiple gene panel germline testing. The need for government-aided subsidies and training programmes was highlighted. Conclusions: Recommendations from the expert panel included (1) development of guidelines and criteria to identify candidates suitable for GT&C; (2) training healthcare professionals with required competencies; (3) improving accessibility and affordability; (4) increased patient education and awareness; and (5) adoption of GT&C into the national healthcare system. The consortium agreed that a multifaceted plan of action combining the expertise of clinicians, scientists, and policymakers is required to facilitate uptake of GT&C in Asia.