Study: Online tools, virtual education boost hereditary cancer testing rates

Richard N. Waldman, MD

Credit: SE Healthcare

Myriad Genetics, announced the results of its study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology. The research demonstrated that integrating an online screening tool and virtual education significantly increases the completion rates of hereditary cancer testing (HCT).¹

The study, conducted across 5 US community obstetrics/gynecology practices, examined the impact of MyGeneHistory, an online patient screening tool, and a virtual education program. Findings revealed that these interventions enhanced the identification of patients eligible for HCT and improved their understanding of genetic testing, leading to a substantial increase in testing completion rates.¹

“Approximately one in four women meet the guidelines for hereditary cancer testing,” stated Richard N. Waldman, MD, lead author of the study and past president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). “By implementing easy-to-use online patient screening and education tools, clinicians were better able to identify patients who would benefit from genetic testing, which could lead to more personalized screening and preventive measures.”¹

Key findings

The study revealed transformative outcomes after implementing MyGeneHistory and the virtual education program:²

• A 30% increase in patients identified as meeting guidelines for HCT.
• A 50% rise in eligible patients offered testing.
• More than double the number of patients completing testing compared to the pre-intervention period.

Notably, clinicians expressed strong support for the tools. Survey results showed that 87% felt the program enhanced their confidence in administering hereditary cancer risk assessments, and over 80% believed the tools helped them adhere to ACOG guidelines.²

“These findings further support Myriad’s commitment to provider ease of use and patient access by enabling an always-on tool to drive appropriate patient identification and education, via our Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Program,” said Melissa Gonzales, president of Women’s Health at Myriad Genetics.¹

Bridging the gap

Before the intervention, less than 60% of guideline-eligible patients were offered HCT, with only 16% completing the process. After integrating the tools, the offer rate soared to 89%, while the completion rate more than doubled to 34%. This improvement highlights the critical role of patient education in enhancing genetic literacy and addressing gaps in testing.²

Patients participating in the virtual education program reported high satisfaction levels, with over 91% indicating the program improved their understanding of genetic testing's purpose and implications. ²

Addressing challenges

Despite the progress, challenges remain. Insurance issues, lack of time, and personal preferences were common barriers to testing. However, the results suggest that providing tailored education and leveraging technology can mitigate these obstacles.²

The study underscores the importance of comprehensive approaches to hereditary cancer risk assessment. Myriad Genetics’ program combines the MyRisk with RiskScore Hereditary Cancer Test, the MyGeneHistory screening tool, and educational resources to deliver a holistic solution.²

References:

1. Myriad Genetics. Myriad Genetics Announces Hereditary Cancer Risk Assessment Program Study Published in Obstetrics & Gynecology. Global Newswire. January 21, 2025. Accessed January 21, 2025. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/21/3012662/15459/en/Myriad-Genetics-Announces-Hereditary-Cancer-Risk-Assessment-Program-Study-Published-in-Obstetrics-Gynecology.html

2. Waldman RN, DeFrancesco MS, Feltz JP, et al. Online Screening and Virtual Patient Education for Hereditary Cancer Risk Assessment and Testing. Obstet Gynecol. 2025;145(2):177-185. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000005799