Myriad Genetics announces results of survey on ovarian cancer screening

Myriad Genetics revealed new nationwide survey results indicating widespread confusion and misconceptions about ovarian cancer screening among a majority of women. The Myriad Genetics Cancer Risk survey shows that nearly three out of four women falsely believe annual pap smears include testing for ovarian cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the “only gynecologic cancer the Pap test screens for is cervical cancer.” While almost half of the women surveyed believe they are being proactive when it comes to ovarian health, only 38% say they visited an OB-GYN in the past year and 13% say they have taken a genetic test to assess risk for cancer. For those who have not taken a genetic test, many women said they’d be motivated to get a genetic test if they had a high-risk of ovarian cancer based on family medical history or an immediate family member with ovarian cancer. Regardless of risk factors, 71% of the women surveyed believe all women should have genetic testing to determine ovarian cancer risk. Two out of three agree that knowing their risk will allow them to take more appropriate preventative measures and 58% agree knowing their risk will help their doctor more appropriately plan treatment should they get cancer.