Impact of Genetic Counselling on Women's Perceptions of Breast Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): Cull A, Anderson E D C, Campbell S, Mackay J, Smyth E, Steel M
Primary Institution: ICRF Medical Oncology Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
Hypothesis
Does genetic counselling influence women's risk perceptions and levels of distress regarding breast cancer?
Conclusion
Genetic counselling improved the accuracy of women's risk perceptions without increasing their distress levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Women at the clinic were more likely to underestimate their risk than overestimate it.
- Mean trait anxiety scores were higher than general population data.
- Counselling led to significantly different risk estimates for overestimators and underestimators.
- Thirty percent of the sample scored above the cut-off for psychological distress.
- GHQ scores were significantly lower after counselling.
Takeaway
The study found that after talking to experts about breast cancer risks, women were better at guessing their actual risk, and it didn't make them feel more anxious.
Methodology
Women completed questionnaires before and after counselling and at annual follow-up to assess their risk estimate and psychological characteristics.
Potential Biases
The study may have bias due to the self-reported nature of risk perceptions and psychological distress.
Limitations
Inaccuracies in risk estimates persisted even after counselling, and the demand for service has reduced consultation time.
Participant Demographics
Women referred to a familial breast cancer clinic.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P < 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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