Assessing Patient Values Towards Prostate Cancer Genetic Screening.

Abstract

Abstract : The project, Assessing Patient Values Towards Prostate Cancer Genetic Screening, has begun to determine the values, beliefs, and attitudes that influence a man's decision to undergo or defer genetic testing for prostate cancer risk. The project consists of two stages: (1) the completed Focus Group Phase, in which 12 focus groups of a total of 90 men have identified key values and beliefs regarding genetic testing for prostate cancer risk. These results have allowed for the construction of a draft survey instrument; and, (2) the Survey Phase in Years 2&3, in which the draft survey instrument will first be pilot tested, with final refinement afterwards, followed by a survey to be administered to 300 men recruited from the waiting rooms at three primary care sites. The survey will evaluate those relevant values, social factors, attitudes, and beliefs that are relevant to genetic screening for prostate cancer risk. As a result, this project will help better understand the decision making of men concerning genetic screening for prostate cancer risk, and will help health professionals who will counsel these men in the decision making process.