To access this thesis, you must be either on the campus of Sarah Lawrence College or have a valid MySLC login and password.

Date of Award

5-2022

Document Type

Thesis - Campus Access Only

Degree Name

MS in Human Genetics

First Advisor

Laura Hercher

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnoses in women, affecting around 255,000 women in the United States annually. An estimated 10% of all breast cancer cases have a hereditary component, and depending on the pathogenic DNA alteration, it may increase the patient’s recurrence risk and potentially increase risk of a new cancer diagnosis for both patient and family members. Thus, determining a potential genetic cause of an individual’s breast cancer offers diagnostic and prognostic information, and may guide decisions regarding treatment and prophylaxis.

At NYU Perlmutter Cancer Center in Manhattan, all newly diagnosed breast cancer patients are offered genetic testing and consultation with a genetic counselor. However, due to the high stress and appointment burden experienced by cancer patients and the need to obtain genetic test results quickly, a streamlined approach was proposed to replace the traditional pre- test genetic counseling appointment with a workflow that provides pre-test education via video and informational handout and a brief telephone appointment with a genetic counselor to review medical and family history. Here we examine the initiation of an ongoing pilot study using the streamlined workflow in April 2022. Though more data is needed to assess impact and draw conclusions, our observations consider the experience of a single participant in order to assess the effectiveness of this streamlined approach.

Share

COinS