Utilization of tumor genomics in clinical practice: an international survey among ASCO members

Future Oncol. 2019 Jul;15(21):2463-2470. doi: 10.2217/fon-2019-0010. Epub 2019 Jun 26.

Abstract

Aim: To identify patterns of use and barriers to tumor genomic testing among oncologists. Methods: We surveyed American Society of Clinical Oncology physician members about their use of genomic testing. Results: Among 11,900 members surveyed, a total of 1000 responded to the survey (participation rate, 8.4%). A total of 75% of the respondents included in the analysis reported ordering tests for at least 1-10% of their patients. Practice setting (academic vs community) was only a determinant in the ordering frequency in North America. Regardless of location, academic oncologists were more likely to prescribe medicine in the context of a clinical trial. Access to clinical trials and costs associated with testing were the barriers identified worldwide. Conclusion: There is substantial variation in the use of genomic tools according to region and practice setting; yet, the barriers are similar worldwide.

Keywords: genomics; next-generation sequencing; oncology; precision medicine.

MeSH terms

  • Disease Management
  • Genetic Testing
  • Genomics* / methods
  • Global Health
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Humans
  • Medical Oncology
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Odds Ratio
  • Oncologists
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'*
  • Societies, Medical