[Abstract] A United States study focused on patients' understanding of, attitudes towards, and barriers to the use of biomarker testing for NSCLC

Advances in precision medicine using biomarker testing for determining somatic mutations and protein levels in lung cancer to determine therapy targeted specifically for an individual patient have been attributed to helping to optimize cancer treatment. However, rates for biomarker testing in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), where there are more than 20 approved targeted therapies for 9 different biomarkers, remain suboptimal. Little research outside of the context of genetic counseling for inherited cancer risk has explored patient perceptions of communication toward use of precision medicine and biomarker testing. Fewer studies have taken into account the perspectives of patients themselves. 

The purpose of this study was to understand the patient perspective regarding current use, awareness, barriers to access, and educational needs regarding biomarker testing. Additionally, a cohort of patients connected to the LUNGevity Foundation’s patient advocacy network was compared to a general patient sample in order to determine specific challenges faced by patients who may not be as connected to advocacy groups.

For more information on this study contact Upal Basu Roy, PhD, MPH at ubasuroy@LUNGevity.org.