Investigation of the Level of Awareness and Knowledge of Physicians Regarding the Cancer Susceptibility of Germline BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations

Awareness and Knowledge of Germline BRCA1/2 Mutations Among Physicians

Abstract

Objective: The rising incidence and mortality of breast cancer highlight the importance of awareness of BRCA1/2-related hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Appropriate genetic understanding and counseling improve outcomes in disease management.
Methods: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and awareness levels of physicians at the Ankara University, Faculty of Medicine using a questionnaire administered to 110 physicians.
Results: Among physicians, 47.7% reported adequately informing patients with BRCA mutations, whereas most reported difficulties in accessing genetic testing. Significant associations were observed between specialty knowledge and guideline knowledge, and between self-reported knowledge and actual knowledge. Physicians’ ability to identify BRCA-associated cancers was correlated with both physicians’ specialty and education level.
Conclusion: The results indicate a mismatch between perceived and actual knowledge levels and reveal gaps in both awareness and access to genetic services. The study underlines the need for improved education and integration of BRCA-related knowledge into clinical practice, emphasizing that medical education and clinical training in cancer genetics are crucial for early diagnosis and effective patient counseling, benefiting both current and future healthcare professionals.