Knowledge, Awareness and Barriers to Breast Cancer Genetic Testing among woman with positive family history: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aditi Paul Chowdhury
Institution: Ahsania Mission Cancer and General Hospital
Introduction
Genetic testing enables early identification and preventive strategies for women who are at risk of developing breast cancer. However, public awareness and access to clinical genetics remain limited in Bangladesh. This study evaluated genetic literacy, prior counseling exposure, readiness to undergo testing, and perceived barriers among women with a family history of cancer.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 women attending Ahsania Mission Cancer & General Hospital (AMCGH) who reported a family history of breast cancer. Structured face-to-face interviews captured demographic factors, general screening knowledge, counseling history, testing uptake, and specific obstacles to genetic evaluation.
Results
The average age of participants was 33 years (17–72 years). While 66.0% had heard of general breast cancer screening methods, only 10.6% (n = 53) had prior exposure to genetic counseling, Despite this low exposure, 60.6% ($n = 303$) stated they would be willing to take a genetic test if it were available and recommended by a doctor. The three largest barriers to testing were: 1. High cost of the test (70.6%) 2. Lack of information and procedural knowledge (58.8%) 3. Fear and anxiety about receiving a positive cancer risk result (58.0%) Other reported challenges included limited access to specialized genetic clinics (28.6%) and cultural or social concerns (22.0%).
Conclusion
Despite an encouraging readiness to test (>60%), high out-of-pocket costs and acute counseling shortages create severe barriers. Establishing subsidized testing programs and hospital-based counseling clinics is critical to making genetic risk stratification accessible.