Suchergebnisse

<b><i>Background/Aims:</i></b> Ashkenazi Jews have a 1:40 prevalence of <i>BRCA1/2</i> mutations. Orthodox Jews are an understudied population with unique cultural and religious factors that may influence <i>BRCA1/2</i> genetic testing uptake. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a cross-sectional survey and focus groups among Orthodox Jewish women in New York/New Jersey to explore factors affecting decision-making about<i> BRCA1/2</i> genetic testing. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Among 321 evaluable survey participants, the median age was 47 years (range, 25–82); 56% were Modern Orthodox and 44% Yeshivish/Chassidish/other; 84% were married; 7% had a personal history of breast or ovarian cancer. Nearly 20% of the women had undergone <i>BRCA1/2</i>genetic testing. Predictors of genetic testing uptake included being Modern Orthodox (odds ratio [OR] = 2.31), married (OR = 3.49), and having a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer (OR = 9.74). Focus group participants (<i>n</i> = 31) confirmed the importance of rabbinic consultation in medical decision-making and revealed that stigma was a prominent factor in decisions about <i>BRCA1/2</i> testing due to its potential impact on marriageability. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> In order to increase the uptake of <i>BRCA1/2</i> genetic testing among the Orthodox Jewish population, it is crucial to understand religious and cultural factors, such as stigma and effect on marriageability, and engage religious leaders in raising awareness within the community.