UC Davis Health researchers are launching a study to understand why Latina breast cancer survivors are not getting genetic testing that could save their lives and protect their families. The research project, called Entendiéndonos, will recruit at least 300 Latina breast cancer survivors to identify what prevents them from accessing genetic counseling and testing.
Genetic testing can detect mutations like BRCA that significantly increase cancer risk. According to principal researcher Luis Carvajal-Carmona, if a mother tests positive for a cancer-linked mutation, her family members can also get tested to determine their risk. Up to 5% of Americans carry genetic mutations associated with cancer risk, making this screening tool potentially lifesaving.
The disparities facing Latina women are particularly concerning. While Latinas overall have lower breast cancer rates than non-Hispanic white women, they are diagnosed at later stages when the disease is harder to treat and survival rates are lower. Additionally, Latinas and their families are less likely to pursue genetic testing compared with non-Hispanic white women.
Researchers believe several factors contribute to this gap. Some patients may never have been offered testing, while others might not realize that insurance typically covers both the test and genetic counseling consultation. Carvajal-Carmona emphasized the importance of understanding these barriers, stating the team wants to get to the bottom of why eligible survivors do or don’t undergo testing. The study aims to develop recommendations that will increase awareness and testing rates in this underserved community.
See: “ID’ing Barriers to Genetic Testing Among Latina Breast Cancer Survivors” (December 19, 2025)
