The Development of Genetic Testing in Ovarian Cancer

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, associate professor, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, discusses the development of genetic testing in ovarian cancer.

With the identification of biomarkers in ovarian cancer, for which there are targeted therapies available, there is more incentive to perform adequate genetic testing to all patients; however, that goal has not been met, explains Senter. Many centers have gathered together to make genetic testing more accessible to patients, but progress is still needed, says Senter.

Recent data show that 50% of patients with ovarian cancer receive germline testing, a number that has improved dramatically over the years, according to Senter. Some centers have improved their testing rates to 80% or 90% by making minimal practice changes and assigning 1 person in the center as the head of genetic testing, concludes Senter.