Psychological Impact of Genetic Assessment for Breast Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): Brain K, Norman P, Gray J, Rogers C, Mansel R, Harper P
Primary Institution: Institute of Medical Genetics, University of Wales College of Medicine
Hypothesis
The study aims to compare the psychological impact of a multidisciplinary specialist genetics service with surgical provision in women at different levels of familial breast cancer risk.
Conclusion
The study found that while anxiety decreased overall, women at high risk reported lower satisfaction and no significant change in perceived risk.
Supporting Evidence
- Women at low or moderate risk experienced significant reductions in cancer worry and perceived risk.
- High risk women reported lower satisfaction with their consultations.
- Anxiety decreased overall regardless of risk information provided.
Takeaway
This study looked at how women feel after getting genetic risk assessments for breast cancer. It found that those at lower risk felt less anxious, but those at high risk were still worried and less satisfied.
Methodology
Women were randomized to receive either a surgical consultation with or without specialist genetic risk assessment, and their psychological outcomes were measured before and after the consultation.
Potential Biases
Potential participation bias as only women referred by general practitioners or local breast surgeons were included.
Limitations
The study did not examine the psychological impact of receiving genetic test results separately for high risk women.
Participant Demographics
Women identified as having a family history of breast cancer, stratified into low, moderate, and high risk groups.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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