Patient knowledge and information-seeking about personalized cancer therapy

Deevakar Rogith, Rafeek A. Yusuf, Shelley R. Hovick, Bryan M. Fellman, Susan K. Peterson, Allison M. Burton-Chase, Yisheng Li, Elmer V. Bernstam, Funda Meric-Bernstam

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

18 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Understanding patients' knowledge and prior information-seeking regarding personalized cancer therapy (PCT) may inform future patient information systems, consent for molecular testing and PCT protocols. We evaluated breast cancer patients' knowledge and information-seeking behaviors regarding PCT. Methods: Newly registered female breast cancer patients (n = 100) at a comprehensive cancer center completed a self-administered questionnaire prior to their first clinic visit. Results: Knowledge regarding cancer genetics and PCT was moderate (mean 8.7 ± 3.8 questions correct out of 16). A minority of patients (27%) indicated that they had sought information regarding PCT. Higher education (p = 0.009) and income levels (p = 0.04) were associated with higher knowledge scores and with seeking PCT information (p = 0.04). Knowledge was not associated with willingness to participate in PCT research. Conclusion: Educational background and financial status impact patient knowledge as well as information-seeking behavior. For most patients, clinicians are likely to be patients' initial source of information about PCT. Understanding patients' knowledge deficits at presentation may help inform patient education efforts.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)52-57
Number of pages6
JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics
Volume88
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 1 2016

Keywords

  • Information-seeking behavior
  • Molecular testing
  • Patient attitudes
  • Patient knowledge
  • Personalized cancer therapy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health Informatics

MD Anderson CCSG core facilities

  • Biostatistics Resource Group
  • Clinical Trials Office

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