Abstract
PURPOSE: Germline genetic testing can identify people at high risk of hereditary cancers. Limited data exist on differences in receipt and knowledge of germline genetic testing for cancer predisposition (hereafter genetic testing for cancer). METHODS: Data from the National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System collected between January-February 2024 were analyzed to estimate prevalence of receipt, knowledge, and interest in genetic testing for cancer. RESULTS: An estimated 8.4% of adults received genetic testing for cancer. Among adults who had not received genetic testing for cancer, 52.0% knew genetic tests can indicate high risk of getting cancer in the future, and 40.7% expressed interest in getting tested in the future. The most common reason for interest was knowing risk would make a difference in health care decisions (93.3%). Among adults who did not report interest in genetic testing for cancer, the most common reason for disinterest was no provider recommendation (54.2%). Differences in receipt, knowledge, and interest were observed by sociodemographic characteristics and health history. CONCLUSIONS: This report provides national estimates that can inform strategies to increase genetic testing for cancer among high-risk populations, including efforts to reduce potential testing barriers.