Collaborators
Collaborators
BRCA Test for Breast Cancer Early Detection
Behavioral insights to increase participation in BRCA genetic screening
Partners
גנים טובים
Collaborators
Prof. Eyal Gamliel
Dr. Bat Zion Shachar, MD
The Problem
The BRCA test is a genetic test that checks for mutations linked to a higher risk of breast, ovarian, and other cancers.Since 2020, this test has been offered free of charge to all women of Ashkenazi origin. Yet many women in Israel who are eligible for the test didn't complete it it. our study aimed at analyzing the barriers and enablers for the test in the Israeli population.
Our Approach
We are using a mixed-methods behavioral research framework to understand what drives or prevents women from getting tested.
The project combines a literature review, qualitative interviews with women and healthcare providers, and a large-scale survey.
We focus on mapping the full patient journey across the four major HMOs, identifying key decision points and pain points. Additionally, we are examining how variations in message framing affect perceptions and intentions to take the test.
Behavioral Solutions
The project first explores the main barriers to screening and will develop a set of interventions accordingly. It also measures how different types of messages—especially gain-framed vs. loss-framed—affect women's intention to get tested, and whether these effects differ by characteristics like perceived vulnerability, age, or decision-making style.
Results and Impact
The study results showed that explanatory videos featuring a gynecologist who described the BRCA test and encouraged women to get tested significantly strengthened women’s intention to undergo the screening. Among the different versions of the videos, messages that highlighted the potential loss or risk of not taking the test (loss-framing) were the most effective. These messages not only increased intention, but also led to a meaningful rise in actual test uptake during the follow-up period - especially among women who were actively engaged in managing their health (high PAM – Patient Activation Measure).
Insights from this research can help shape more precise interventions that raise awareness, support essential health decisions, and ultimately improve early detection and protect the health of women in Israel.
Willingness to undergo the test before and after watching the video (%)
(1 – Definitely not, 5 – Definitely yes):
