Abstract B111: A needs assessment of genetic and hereditary breast cancer awareness in Southern California women diagnosed with a genetic mutation

Abstract Background: Breast cancer is a global public health dilemma, considering the public awareness the issue has garnered over the years it continues to be diagnosed in advanced stages. Genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Literature findings have identified the lack of knowledge surrounding genetic breast cancer susceptibility. Methods: In partnership with Southern California Chapter of The Breasties (SoCal Breasties), an all inclusive nonprofit organization that creates a community for survivors, previvors, thrivers, and caregivers impacted by breast and gynecological cancers, 20 women with a breast cancer related genetic mutation diagnosis were surveyed in a cross-sectional study to determine the need for health education on breast cancer genetic susceptibility. Of the 20 women surveyed, the racial/ethnic identities of the respondents is as follows: 10% identified as Asian American/Pacific Islander; 5% identified as Black; 35% identified as Hispanic/Latinx; 5% identified as “Mixed Race: Black, White”; 40% identified as White; and 5% identified as Ashkenazi Jewish, White. Results: 70% of survey respondents identified not having adequate knowledge of genetic breast cancer susceptibility prior to diagnosis. When looking at racial and ethnic groups, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and Asian American/Pacific Islander women made up 71% of the population that lacked proper knowledge of the topic when compared to their white counterparts. 75% identified health education as the most needed resource for genetic breast cancer susceptibility. When asked to share one piece of insight, the most common sentiment expressed was “Knowledge is Power.”Conclusions: There is a need for greater health education on genetic breast cancer susceptibility, especially in racial and ethnic minority populations. Health educators and public health professionals should consider generating awareness campaigns and partnering with community based organizations to disseminate proper knowledge. In addition, resources and awareness campaigns should be culturally tailored and linguistically appropriate to meet the needs of all racial and ethnic groups. Citation Format: Dayanara Ruiz. A needs assessment of genetic and hereditary breast cancer awareness in Southern California women diagnosed with a genetic mutation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B111.