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Park SY, Kim Y, Katapodi MC, Kim YJ, Chae H, Choi YJ, Ryu KH, Lee EG, Kong SY, Jung SY. Healthcare Professionals' Learning Needs and Perspectives on Essential Information in Genetic Cancer Care: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1963. [PMID: 38893084 PMCID: PMC11171145 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16111963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increased demand for genetic testing and counseling necessitates healthcare professionals (HCPs) to improve their genetic competency through training programs. This systematic review identified HCPs' learning needs and their perspectives on essential information for families with hereditary cancer. METHODS This review covered studies published from 2013 to 2024 across five databases. Data were analyzed using a content analysis. RESULTS Thirteen studies involving 332 HCPs were analyzed. Most studies focused on the learning needs of physicians caring for families affected by Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer in North America and Europe. HCPs required training emphasizing practical counseling skills over the basics of genetics. Learning needs varied by profession: physicians needed training in assessing cancer risk and supporting decision-making in risk management; nurses required information on resources and the genetic care system; genetic counselors sought guidance on family communication and planning. Essential information identified for families included risk-reducing strategies, personalized cancer risk assessment, family implications, psychological issues, (cascade) genetic testing, and social concerns. CONCLUSIONS The findings have implications for the development of training programs for HCPs, emphasizing the need for tailored training based on professions. Future research should explore the needs of HCPs caring for families with diverse hereditary cancers and cultural backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Young Park
- College of Nursing, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea;
| | - Youlim Kim
- College of Nursing, Kosin University, Busan 49104, Republic of Korea;
| | - Maria C. Katapodi
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Yeon-Joo Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea;
| | - Heejung Chae
- Center for Breast Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea; (H.C.); (E.-G.L.)
| | - Yoon-Jung Choi
- Department of Cancer Control & Population Science, National Cancer Center Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (K.H.R.)
- National Cancer Control Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea
- Center for Cancer Prevention & Detection, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - Kum Hei Ryu
- Department of Cancer Control & Population Science, National Cancer Center Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (K.H.R.)
| | - Eun-Gyeong Lee
- Center for Breast Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea; (H.C.); (E.-G.L.)
| | - Sun-Young Kong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Genetic Counseling Clinic, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - So-Youn Jung
- Center for Breast Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Republic of Korea; (H.C.); (E.-G.L.)
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Coulombe F, Laberge AM. The Need to Consider Context: A Systematic Review of Factors Involved in the Consent Process for Genetic Tests from the Perspective of Patients. AJOB Empir Bioeth 2024; 15:93-107. [PMID: 38189769 DOI: 10.1080/23294515.2023.2297935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Background: Informed consent for genetic tests is a well-established practice. It should be based on good quality information and in keeping with the patient's values. Existing informed consent assessment tools assess knowledge and values. Nevertheless, there is no consensus on what specific elements need to be discussed or considered in the consent process for genetic tests.Methods: We performed a systematic review to identify all factors involved in the decision-making and consent process about genetic testing, from the perspective of patients. Through public databases, we identified studies reporting factors that influence the decision to accept or decline genetic testing. Studies were included if they reported the perspective of patients or at-risk individuals. All articles were thematically coded.Results: 1989 articles were reviewed: 70 met inclusion criteria and 12 additional articles were identified through the references of included studies. Coding of the 82 articles led to the identification of 45 factors involved in decision-making and consent, which were initially divided into three domains: in favor of, against or with an undetermined influence on genetic testing. Each factor was also divided into three subdomains relating to the informed choice concept: knowledge, values or other. The factors in the "other" subdomain were all related to the context of testing (e.g. timing, cost, influence of family members, etc), and were present in all three domains.Conclusions: We describe the network of factors contributing to decision-making and consent process and identify the context of genetic testing as a third component to influence this process. Future studies should consider the evaluation of contextual factors as an important and relevant component of the consent and decision-making process about genetic tests. Based on these results, we plan to develop and test a more comprehensive tool to assess informed consent for genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Coulombe
- Medical Genetics, McGill University Health Center and McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Anne-Marie Laberge
- Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine and Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Bioethics Program, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
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Boumis JK, Dean M. The BRCA1/2 Previvor Information Journey: Understanding What Helps or Hinders. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37622341 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2248677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
BRCA1/2 previvors - individuals who have a genetic mutation that increases their lifetime risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer - have unique information needs. Previvors can experience distress and uncertainty when these needs are not met, which can have negative consequences on their physical and psychological health. Previous research suggests meeting previvors' information needs is one way to combat these potential harmful effects. However, limited past research has examined previvors' perceptions of the helpfulness of information. Therefore, through surveying 101 previvors, this study explored previvors' perceptions of the (un)helpfulness of information, what (lack of) barriers previvors face to finding desired information, and the information sources they utilized. A thematic analysis revealed that previvors generally viewed information as helpful (through empowerment, coping, camaraderie, and action) but not always (evident in information overload). Previvors also reported several barriers (such as "the healthcare system in general", exclusivity, and uncertainty), while others reported a lack of resistance to finding desired information. Additionally, frequencies were calculated to find that various healthcare providers, support groups, and friends and family were common information sources. Taken together, these results offer a psychosocial model for understanding the previvor information journey, displaying how the themes are interconnected and unique for each previvor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marleah Dean
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida
- Health Outcomes and Behavior Program, Moffitt Cancer Center
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Park SY, Kim Y, Kim S, Katapodi MC. Informational needs of individuals from families harboring BRCA pathogenic variants: A systematic review and content analysis. Genet Med 2022; 25:100001. [PMID: 36549594 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2022.100001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Personalized information is paramount to patient-centered communication and decision-making regarding risk management in hereditary cancer syndromes. This systematic review identified information needs of individuals from families harboring BRCA pathogenic variants and compared findings based on gender (women vs men) and clinical characteristics (patients with cancer vs previvors and BRCA heterozygotes vs untested relatives). METHODS We screened 8115 studies identified from databases and citation searching. The quality of selected studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Narrative synthesis was conducted based on content analysis. RESULTS From 18 selected studies including 1063 individuals, we identified 9 categories of information needs. Risk of bias in the selected studies was moderate. Men, untested relatives, and racial and ethnic minorities were underrepresented. Frequently required information was personalized cancer risk and risk-reducing strategies, including decision-making, family implications of hereditary cancers, psychological issues, and cascade testing. Subgroup analyses showed that information needs depended on gender, personal cancer history, and cascade testing in relatives. CONCLUSION We identified comprehensive and detailed informational needs of individuals from families harboring BRCA pathogenic variants and gaps in international guidelines. Needs for personalized information varied based on gender, health, and genetic testing status. Findings of this study have implications for genetic counseling, tailoring educational materials, and personalizing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Young Park
- College of Nursing, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea; National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoonjoo Kim
- Department of Nursing, College of Healthcare Sciences, Far East University, Eumseong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sue Kim
- College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Maria C Katapodi
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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McNamara N, Feeney M, Giltenane M, Dowling M. Breast cancer genetic mutation: Synthesis of women's experience. J Clin Nurs 2022. [PMID: 36016506 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To systematically identify and synthesise the experiences reported by women with a breast cancer mutation who do not have cancer as reported in qualitative research published between 2013 and 2020. BACKGROUND Women carrying a BReast CAncer (BRC) genetic mutation have an increased risk for breast and ovarian cancer. They must engage in emotional decision-making regarding risk management strategies to prevent cancer, including risk-reducing bilateral mastectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. DESIGN AND METHODS The ENTREQ statement guided this review. Eight databases were systematically searched (CINAHL, Pubmed, Embase, Psychinfo [Ovid], Web of Science, Scopus, Proquest and Lenus). Synthesis was guided by "best fit" framework. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme guided assessment of methodological limitations and confidence in the review findings was informed by GRADE-CERQual. RESULTS Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria for synthesis. Six themes were synthesised from the included studies (anxiety; family planning; it's a family affair; empowerment; actions; pragmatic adjustments). CONCLUSIONS The multidimensional experiences of women living with a BRCA1/2 mutation require an individualised response based on women's needs at their life stages. A decision coaching model adopted during consultations could support women to guide decision-making regarding cancer risk-reducing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nichola McNamara
- Symptomatic Breast Unit, University Hospital Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Meghan Feeney
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Martina Giltenane
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Maura Dowling
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Warner NZ, Groarke A. A qualitative reflexive thematic analysis into the experiences of being identified with a BRCA1/2 gene alteration: "So many little, little traumas could have been avoided". BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1007. [PMID: 35933387 PMCID: PMC9357316 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08372-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background BRCA1/2 alterations increase females’ lifetime breast cancer risk to 40 – 90%, ovarian cancer to 10 – 60%, and males’ lifetime prostate cancer risk to ~ 10 – 25%. Psychosocial issues such as heightened distress can, therefore, occur in this population. This study aimed to explore the subjective experiences and needs of the BRCA1/2 alteration population in navigating cancer risk reduction measures. Method This study aimed to explore the experiences and identify the needs of 18 BRCA1/2 alteration carriers, recruited through strategic sampling. A public and patient panel (N = 6) collaborated on study development. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Two themes were identified: (i) Healthcare Services as a Burden to Navigate, and (ii) Burden Experienced Through Interactions with Healthcare Professionals. Results indicated uncertainty regarding care pathways, alongside a lack of relevant information. Participants felt unsupported by healthcare professionals, and as though healthcare professionals often perceive them as a burden. Conclusions These findings suggest that the quality of interactions in healthcare systems are of relevance to the BRCA1/2 alteration population, and that uncertainty surrounding access to services and information is prevalent. The establishment of specialist hereditary cancer clinics could reduce such burden. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08372-w.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - AnnMarie Groarke
- School of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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Stracke C, Lemmen C, Rhiem K, Schmutzler R, Kautz-Freimuth S, Stock S. Medical knowledge and information needs among women with pathogenic variants in moderate-risk genes for hereditary breast cancer attending genetic counseling at an academic hospital in Germany-A qualitative approach. J Genet Couns 2021; 31:698-712. [PMID: 34837291 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
With 69,000 newly diagnosed cases every year, breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer disease among women in Germany. Familial clustering is seen in about 30% of newly diagnosed cases. Besides the high-risk genes BRCA1/2, there are also moderate-risk BC genes (MBCG) that are associated with a 20%-50% risk of BC, such as CHEK2, ATM, and PALB2. In Germany, carriers of pathogenic variants in MBCG receive specific information on their test results, individual risks, and preventive options during genetic counseling for the disclosure of the results in a specialized center. Little is known about the medical knowledge that women have after attending counseling. This study aims to identify the medical knowledge, further information needs, and the possible impact of a lack of information on dealing with everyday life for women with pathogenic variants in MBCG who have attended genetic counseling at an academic hospital in Germany. Problem-centered, guided, individual interviews were conducted with twelve women carrying pathogenic variants in MBCG. The interview guide was developed based on the methods of the problem-centered interview according to Witzel. The interview analysis was based on Mayring's qualitative content analysis. The women were between 29 and 59 years old and carried pathogenic variants in the risk genes CHEK2 (n = 8), ATM (n = 1), or PALB2 (n = 3). Several medical uncertainties and information needs emerged from the data, concerning (a) medical terms, (b) risk perception, (c) BC therapy for hereditary BC, (d) lifestyle advice and risk factors, and (e) family planning and risk-reducing mastectomy. Women with pathogenic variants in MBCG might develop their own conceptions regarding the onset of disease and inheritance. In order to meet the need for information and address the uncertainties that may still exist after genetic counseling, structured, evidence-based and comprehensible written information in German should be developed for this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Stracke
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Clarissa Lemmen
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kerstin Rhiem
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Rita Schmutzler
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sibylle Kautz-Freimuth
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Stephanie Stock
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Godino L, Turchetti D, Jackson L, Hennessy C, Skirton H. Genetic counselling as a route to enhanced autonomy: using a sequential mixed methods research approach to develop a theory regarding presymptomatic genetic testing for young adults at risk of inherited cancer syndromes. J Community Genet 2021; 12:685-691. [PMID: 34415557 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-021-00548-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Undertaking presymptomatic or predictive genetic testing should involve a considered choice. Decisions regarding genetic testing for young adults have to be considered within the context of their key life stage, which may involve developing a career, forming partnerships and/or becoming parents. The aim of this study was to develop a theoretical model regarding the factors involved when young adults (18-30 years) undergo presymptomatic genetic testing for inherited cancer syndromes. The model evolved from synthesis of results of a sequential mixed methods study involving a systematic review, a qualitative study and a quantitative study. The resulting model shows that young adults at risk of inherited cancer syndromes are influenced by others to have testing and come to counselling with their decision already made. However, genetic counselling enhances their feelings of autonomy and integration of their genetic status into their lives. Our theoretical model could be a valid support during the genetic counselling process for young adults and their parents, as it may sensitise professionals to the specific needs of this population, including education and support to autonomous decision-making. Counselling approaches should be modified in this population: an inclusive, multi-step counselling process is needed, with timing and setting set according to the specific features of this sensitive population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Godino
- Division of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy. .,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK. .,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Center for Studies on Hereditary Cancer, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Daniela Turchetti
- Division of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Leigh Jackson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Heather Skirton
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK
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