Grant: Project Grant

Background: Genetic testing for cancer predisposition genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 is available to women with breast cancer who meet provincial eligibility criteria. Over time, the criteria have changed, and as a result many women diagnosed between the ages of 36 and 45 would not have been offered genetic testing at the time of cancer diagnosis. This is a missed opportunity to identify individuals with a genetic mutation, which has implications for the patient, and her family members. In the current study we will develop and pilot test a provincial notification and support system to increase access to genetic testing in women with breast cancer who are eligible for genetic testing. Study Aims: In this study, we will explore the key barriers, facilitators, needs and challenges of women with breast cancer who are eligible for genetic testing. We will then co-design and pilot test a provincial notification and support system to facilitate genetic testing in women with prevalent breast cancer who are eligible for genetic testing in Ontario. Methods: The genetic testing notification and support system will be developed and pilot tested in three stages. The first stage will consist of a qualitative study to explore the key barriers, facilitators, needs and challenges the intervention materials must address (aim 1). The second stage will employ user-centred design to co-develop and usability test the intervention materials (aim 2). The third stage will consist of a pilot study of the intervention to evaluate feasibility and acceptability (aim 3). We will also explore users' experiences using the intervention. Impact: The results of this study will provide the necessary evidence to inform a large randomized controlled trial, leading to an effective notification and support system for women with breast cancer, resulting in increased access to genetic testing.