Behavioral beliefs about genetic counseling among high‐risk Latina breast cancer survivors in Florida and Puerto Rico

Abstract

Compared with non‐Hispanic White women, Latina women are less likely to receive genetic counseling (GC) and testing (GT) following BC diagnosis. This study used secondary data analysis to explore beliefs about GC among Latina BC survivors in and outside the US mainland. GC/GT‐naïve, high‐risk, Spanish‐preferring Latina BC survivors (n = 52) in FL and PR completed the Behavioral Beliefs about GC scale. Participants reported high positive beliefs about GC (M = 4.19, SD = 0.92); the majority agreed that GC was beneficial to understand cancer risk (90%) and promote discussion (87%) in their family. Participants reported low‐to‐moderate scores for barriers (Ms = 1.53–3.40; SDs = 0.59–0.90). The most frequently endorsed barriers were desire for additional GC information (M = 3.44; SD = 0.90), and GC logistic concerns (M = 2.71; SD = 0.80). No statistically significant differences for barriers and benefits scales were identified by place of residence (all ps ≥ 0.12). These findings highlight the importance of delivering culturally sensitive GC information to high‐risk Latina BC survivors.

Piloting a Spanish-Language Web-Based Tool for Hereditary Cancer Genetic Testing

“…Consequently, most Spanish speakers within the continental U.S. receive genetic counseling through inadequate interpreter services and report problems with verbal and written communication during visits [ 5 ]. Although Spanish is the dominant language in Puerto Rico, there are no Master’s trained genetic counselors practicing in the territory, and the need for additional information has been reported as the most common barrier to genetic testing among cancer survivors in the territory [ 6 ].…”