Patient knowledge and information-seeking about personalized cancer therapy.

Abstract

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. Newly registered female breast cancer patients (n=100) at a comprehensive cancer center completed a self-administered questionnaire prior to their first clinic visit. 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. 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.