Feasibility of Combined Obstetric Carrier and Hereditary Cancer Screening During Prenatal and Preconception Care

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the interest and acceptability of adding hereditary cancer screening (HCS) alongside standard obstetric carrier screening (OCS) among women receiving routine prenatal or preconception/fertility care. The study addresses the opportunity pregnancy offers for early cancer prevention, particularly in underserved populations, by assessing whether universal screening during this time is feasible and potentially cost-effective. It focuses on BRCA1/2 genetic testing, which is not typically included in standard OCS despite its importance for cancer risk assessment. Participants will be offered combined HCS and OCS either during obstetrical/prenatal visits or at reproductive endocrinology and infertility clinics. If they choose to proceed with OCS, a genetics clinician will provide counseling about HCS, including its risks, benefits, and possible outcomes. This trial evaluates patient decisions to accept HCS in addition to OCS and follows established counseling and consent procedures. During the study, researchers will track how many participants complete both HCS and OCS tests within about two years. They will also measure participant experiences through various questionnaires and interviews, including distress levels and satisfaction with genetic counseling and decision-making. High-risk participants will be monitored for use of cancer prevention strategies up to 18 months after screening. Provider experiences will also be collected. Overall, the study lasts through recruitment and follow-up periods, aiming to understand acceptability and outcomes of combined genetic screening.

Trial of Combined Obstetric Carrier Screening and Hereditary Cancer Screening