Tailoring Communication in Breast Cancer Consultations
Author Information
Author(s): Lobb E A, Butow P N, Meiser B, Barratt A, Gaff C, Young M A, Kirk J, Suthers G K, Tucker K
Primary Institution: University of Sydney
Hypothesis
Do patient demographics and psychological variables influence genetic consultants' communication behaviors in consultations with women from high-risk breast cancer families?
Conclusion
Consultants tailor their communication based on clinical factors like breast cancer status, but not on women's psychological state or expectations.
Supporting Evidence
- Consultants discussed more aspects of genetic testing with affected women.
- Women in non-professional occupations received more supportive communication.
- Consultants tailored their communication based on the woman's breast cancer status.
Takeaway
This study looked at how doctors talk to women at risk for breast cancer and found that they change their approach based on whether the woman has cancer or not.
Methodology
Women completed a pre-clinic self-report questionnaire, and consultations were audiotaped, transcribed, and coded for analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported data and the exclusion of women with severe mental illness or limited English literacy.
Limitations
The study may not generalize to all populations as it was conducted in specific familial cancer clinics in Australia.
Participant Demographics
Median age of participants was 42, with 56% unaffected and 44% affected by breast cancer; majority were married and educated above year 12.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P<0.001
Confidence Interval
95%CI=1.705–7.942
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website