Dr. Pettaway on the Prevalence of Germline Mutations in Diverse Populations With Prostate Cancer

Curtis A. Pettaway, MD, professor, Department of Urology, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses the prevalence of germline mutations in diverse populations with prostate cancer.

Historically, germline mutations such as BRCA1/2 have not been well described in African American, Asian, and Hispanic communities, says Pettway. However, multigene molecular sequencing panels has made it easier to discover genetic alterations in these patient populations. Though rare, these alterations could have prognostic and therapeutic implications for patients and their families, says Pettaway.

As such, it is important to increase awareness regarding the prevalence of these mutations in racially diverse populations and increase access to testing platforms to ensure that these patients can receive optimal care, concludes Pettaway.