A study comparing two methods for genetic testing in families at risk for hereditary cancer

CHARGE: CHOICE ARCHITECTURE IN GENETIC TESTING

NA · University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT06284330

This study is testing whether sending genetic testing kits directly to family members at risk for hereditary cancer helps them get tested more than just offering standard counseling.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment260 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (other)
Locations1 site (Dallas, Texas)
Trial IDNCT06284330 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The CHARGE study evaluates the effectiveness of a choice architecture intervention for cascade genetic testing compared to usual care. It consists of two arms: one providing standard genetic counseling and education, and the other mailing home genetic testing kits directly to at-risk relatives of probands. This approach aims to enhance participation in genetic testing and improve awareness of hereditary cancer risks. The study focuses on individuals with specific pathogenic variants and their relatives, all residing in Texas.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 or older with a newly reported pathogenic variant in specific cancer-related genes and at least one adult living genetically related relative in Texas.

Not a fit: Patients who have been referred for genetic testing by a relative with a pathogenic variant or who are unwilling to participate in the randomization process may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve access to genetic testing for families at risk of hereditary cancer, leading to earlier detection and better management of cancer risks.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using choice architecture in genetic testing is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing patient engagement and testing uptake.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Proband Inclusion Criteria:

* Have a newly reported pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant in one or more of the following genes: APC, ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, CDH1, CHEK2, PALB2, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, PTEN, TP53
* 18 years of age or older
* English fluency
* Have at least 1 adult living genetically related relative who resides in Texas

Proband Exclusion Criteria:

* Referred for genetic testing by a relative with a pathogenic variant
* Unwilling to be randomized to a study arm

Relative Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years of age or older
* English fluency
* Residing in Texas

Where this trial is running

Dallas, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Hereditary Cancer, cascade genetic testing, hybrid type I, feasibility

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.