Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Patient and Clinician Share Insights on how to tackle the fear of cancer screenings on YourUpdateTV

Core Insights - A recent survey by Myriad Genetics reveals a significant contradiction in women's attitudes towards cancer screenings, with 80% expressing fear of screenings, yet 75% indicating that genetic testing would provide reassurance if facing health concerns [2][3] - The survey highlights a critical gap in awareness regarding advanced screening tools that could empower women, especially those at increased risk for hereditary cancers [2] Group 1: Survey Findings - More than half of women at high risk for hereditary cancer feel "empowered" by advanced screening options like genetic testing [1] - Approximately 40% of women surveyed were unaware of the existence of genetic testing tools to assess personal cancer risk [3] - Only 14% of respondents have undergone genetic testing, despite over 25% of women in an OB/GYN setting meeting criteria for hereditary cancer testing [3] Group 2: Importance of Family Health History - Over 50% of respondents believe knowing their parents' health history is very important, but only about 30% reported knowing it "very well" [4] - About 48% of respondents would encourage their younger selves to discuss health history more frequently with their parents [4] Group 3: Genetic Testing and Risk Management - The MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test with RiskScore calculates a woman's five-year and lifetime risk of breast cancer, providing options for increased screening frequency if high risk is identified [6] - Understanding familial factors, such as multiple cancers in the family and the age of diagnosis, is crucial for determining the need for hereditary cancer testing [5]