# Psychosocial predictors of hereditary cancer genetic testing motivation in untested individuals

## TL;DR

This study explores how psychosocial factors influence motivation for hereditary cancer genetic testing in individuals who have not yet been tested.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific psychosocial predictors of genetic testing motivation, including self-efficacy, barriers, and healthcare distrust.

## Key findings

- Higher self-efficacy is positively associated with genetic testing motivation.
- Barriers and healthcare distrust are negatively associated with testing motivation.
- Older individuals, non-White participants, and those with lower socioeconomic status reported higher motivation scores.

## Abstract

Genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes can provide lifesaving information allowing for individualized cancer screening, prevention, and treatment. A broader understanding of how psychosocial factors impact motivation to undergo genetic testing is needed to improve uptake among individuals who would benefit from testing. Adults (≥18 years) who met criteria for genetic testing based on a self‐reported family cancer history and had not previously completed testing were invited to complete a survey (n = 799) assessing psychosocial factors including barriers to genetic testing, healthcare distrust, perceived self‐efficacy, clinician autonomy support, and genetic testing knowledge. Associations between these psychosocial factors and testing motivation were examined first by correlation followed by multivariable linear regression. Self‐efficacy had a significant positive correlation with genetic testing motivation, while barriers and healthcare distrust were negatively correlated with motivation. In an adjusted multivariable regression model, higher self‐efficacy was associated with higher motivation while higher barriers and healthcare distrust were negatively associated with genetic testing motivation. Individuals of older age (51+), non‐White race, and lower perceived socioeconomic status reported higher mean motivation scores. The negative association between distrust and barriers with genetic testing intention may be a potential target for tailored interventions for genetic testing.