RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Mainstreaming Genetics: Evaluation of a Digital Application to Scale and Spread Oncologist-initiated Genetic Testing

This study is testing a new digital tool called GA-Mainstream for people with certain cancers, including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and colon cancer. Often, genetic testing is very important for these cancers as it can help doctors decide the best treatment. Currently, many cancer centres are trying a new way of doing genetic testing where the cancer doctor starts the process, rather than a specialist genetic counsellor. This new digital tool aims to make sure patients still get all the information and support they need in a clear and organised way, helping them feel less worried and more involved in their care. The study will compare how well this digital tool works compared to the current standard approach.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Unity Health Toronto

Enrolment target

180

Start

01 May 2026

Estimated completion

01 Mar 2027

Cancer Breast Cancer Prostate Cancer Colon Cancer GI Cancers Ovarian Cancer Pancreatic Cancer

What is this study about?

When you are diagnosed with certain cancers, like breast, ovarian, prostate, or colon cancer, doctors might suggest a genetic test. This test looks for specific changes in your genes that could affect your treatment plan or your family's risk. Normally, you might see a genetic counsellor first to talk it all through.

However, there's a growing need for genetic testing, and genetic counselling services are very busy. So, some cancer centres are trying a new approach where your cancer doctor (oncologist) starts the genetic testing conversation and process, sometimes using pamphlets or videos. This is called 'mainstreaming' genetic testing. Currently, there isn't a standard way to do this, which means experiences can vary greatly, and it can sometimes leave patients feeling confused or worried.

This study introduces a new digital tool called 'GA-Mainstream' (Genetics Adviser for Mainstream care). It's designed to give you clear, easy-to-understand information about genetic testing for cancer, right from your cancer doctor. The aim is to make sure you feel well-informed, supported, and have a good understanding of your options, which can help reduce any stress or anxiety related to the testing process. The study wants to see if this digital tool can improve how patients feel and their understanding compared to the usual way genetic testing is offered through their cancer doctor.

Key takeaways

This study explores a new digital tool for cancer genetic testing.
It aims to make genetic testing information clearer and more supportive for patients.
The tool is for people with certain cancers like breast, ovarian, and prostate.
It helps patients understand their options and feel less worried about testing.
Participation involves using a digital tool and sharing your experiences.
Your care and privacy are a top priority throughout the study.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and be able to speak and read English. You must be advised by your cancer doctor to have a specific type of genetic test where they look at your genes because of your cancer.

However, you cannot join if you are already being sent to a specialist genetics clinic for your genetic testing. Also, if you don't use the internet or have access to a computer or tablet, or if a doctor feels you might struggle to understand the information, you wouldn't be able to take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Can you speak and read English?
Has your cancer doctor suggested genetic testing for your cancer?
Are you able to use the internet and an electronic device (like a computer or tablet)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will use the GA-Mainstream digital tool. This tool will provide you with information about your genetic testing. The researchers will then look at how you feel, your understanding of the testing, and your decisions. They will compare this to people who receive standard information from their cancer doctor. The study will also look at how quickly you get your results and the time spent discussing them. The overall duration of your participation will depend on the standard timeline for genetic testing and result disclosure, followed by surveys to gather your experiences.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer you the benefit of receiving clearer, more structured information about your genetic testing through the digital tool, potentially making you feel more informed and less anxious. As with any new approach, there might be unforeseen aspects. Your genetic test results are sensitive information, and all data will be handled with strict confidentiality. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (2)

Sunnybrook Hospital
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada· Recruiting
Mount Sinai Hospital
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'genetic testing' for cancer?

Genetic testing looks at your genes to see if there are any changes that might have played a role in your cancer or could affect your treatment choices.

What does 'mainstreaming' genetic testing mean?

It means your cancer doctor (oncologist) will start the conversation and process for genetic testing, rather than you having to see a separate genetic counsellor first.

What is the 'GA-Mainstream' tool?

It's a digital tool designed to give you clear and understandable information about cancer genetic testing, helping you feel informed and supported.

What kind of cancers is this study looking at?

The study focuses on breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and colon cancers.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes, all your personal and medical information will be handled with strict confidentiality and privacy according to ethical guidelines.

How to find out more

Marc Clausen, MA

marc.clausen@unityhealth.to 416-864-6060 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.