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Costa-Requena G, Richart-Aznar P, Segura-Huerta Á. Cancer worry at higher-risk sample of hereditary cancer in Spain. Eur J Cancer Prev 2024; 33:293-298. [PMID: 37997907 DOI: 10.1097/cej.0000000000000862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have examined the prevalence of cancer worry in the general and at-risk population. The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of cancer worry in a sample of individuals at increased risk of developing hereditary cancer, determine differences in cancer worry by socio-demographic characteristics and assess the relationship between cancer worry and psychological distress. METHODS A cross-sectional study was designed with 895 patients. The Cancer Worry Scale (CWS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for psychological distress and sociodemographic characteristics were examined. The multiple linear regression model was developed to explore what variables were predicted for cancer worry. To identify variables associated with higher cancer worry scores, a logistic model was fitted. RESULTS In the at-higher-risk sample of hereditary cancer, the mean of CWS was 10.20 (SD: 3.70). The significant predictors for cancer worry were gender, age, previous psychiatric treatment, patients affected by cancer and having children. In the sample, 38% of patients had higher scores on cancer worry, the variables associated were patients affected by cancer compared, women, widow/divorced participants, less than secondary school, patients with previous psychiatric treatment and patients less than 55 years old. Using the HADS cutoff score 29% of the sample showed significant psychological distress, more anxiety (35%) than depressive (22%) symptomatology. Psychological distress showed a higher variability (36%) on cancer worry. CONCLUSION Findings highlighted distinctive profiles in socio-demographic characteristics according to the degree of cancer worry; therefore, genetic counseling should continue to be provided to address cancer worry and relieve psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gema Costa-Requena
- Department of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe
- Genetic Counselling Unit for Hereditary Cancer, Department of Oncology, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Paula Richart-Aznar
- Genetic Counselling Unit for Hereditary Cancer, Department of Oncology, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ángel Segura-Huerta
- Genetic Counselling Unit for Hereditary Cancer, Department of Oncology, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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Mariano L, Nicosia L, Sorce A, Pesapane F, Coppini V, Grasso R, Monzani D, Pravettoni G, Mauri G, Venturini M, Pizzamiglio M, Cassano E. Radiologists' Communicative Role in Breast Cancer Patient Management: Beyond Diagnosis. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1145. [PMID: 38891220 PMCID: PMC11172385 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12111145] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In the landscape of cancer treatment, particularly in the realm of breast cancer management, effective communication emerges as a pivotal factor influencing patient outcomes. This article delves into the nuanced intricacies of communication skills, specifically spotlighting the strategies embraced by breast radiologists. By examining the ramifications of communication on patient experience, interdisciplinary collaboration, and legal ramifications, this study underscores the paramount importance of empathetic and comprehensive communication approaches. A special emphasis is placed on the utilization of the SPIKES protocol, a structured method for conveying sensitive health information, and the deployment of strategies for navigating challenging conversations. Furthermore, the work encompasses the significance of communication with caregivers, the integration of artificial intelligence, and the acknowledgement of patients' psychological needs. By adopting empathetic communication methodologies and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration, healthcare practitioners have the potential to enhance patient satisfaction, promote treatment adherence, and augment the overall outcomes within breast cancer diagnosis. This paper advocates for the implementation of guidelines pertaining to psychological support and the allocation of sufficient resources to ensure the provision of holistic and patient-centered cancer care. The article stresses the need for a holistic approach that addresses patients' emotional and psychological well-being alongside medical treatment. Through thoughtful and empathetic communication practices, healthcare providers can profoundly impact patient experiences and breast cancer journeys in a positive manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Mariano
- Breast Imaging Division, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti, 435, 20141 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (F.P.); (M.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Luca Nicosia
- Breast Imaging Division, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti, 435, 20141 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (F.P.); (M.P.); (E.C.)
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant, 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Adriana Sorce
- Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Filippo Pesapane
- Breast Imaging Division, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti, 435, 20141 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (F.P.); (M.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Veronica Coppini
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy; (V.C.); (R.G.); (D.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Roberto Grasso
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy; (V.C.); (R.G.); (D.M.); (G.P.)
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Monzani
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy; (V.C.); (R.G.); (D.M.); (G.P.)
- Laboratory of Behavioral Observation and Research on Human Development, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy; (V.C.); (R.G.); (D.M.); (G.P.)
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Mauri
- Division of Interventional Radiology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti, 435, 20141 Milan, Italy;
| | - Massimo Venturini
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Unit, ASST Settelaghi, Insubria University, 21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - Maria Pizzamiglio
- Breast Imaging Division, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti, 435, 20141 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (F.P.); (M.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Enrico Cassano
- Breast Imaging Division, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Ripamonti, 435, 20141 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (F.P.); (M.P.); (E.C.)
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Wu Z, Zhang Q, Jin Y, Zhang X, Chen Y, Yang C, Tang X, Jiang H, Wang X, Zhou X, Yu F, Wang B, Guan M. Population-based BRCA germline mutation screening in the Han Chinese identifies individuals at risk of BRCA mutation-related cancer: experience from a clinical diagnostic center from greater Shanghai area. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:411. [PMID: 38566028 PMCID: PMC10988807 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12089-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deleterious BRCA1/2 (BRCA) mutation raises the risk for BRCA mutation-related malignancies, including breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancer. Germline variation of BRCA exhibits substantial ethnical diversity. However, there is limited research on the Chinese Han population, constraining the development of strategies for BRCA mutation screening in this large ethnic group. METHODS We profile the BRCA mutational spectrum, including single nucleotide variation, insertion/deletion, and large genomic rearrangements in 2,080 apparently healthy Chinese Han individuals and 522 patients with BRCA mutation-related cancer, to determine the BRCA genetic background of the Chinese Han population, especially of the East Han. Incident cancer events were monitored in 1,005 participants from the healthy group, comprising 11 BRCA pathogenic/likely pathogenic (PLP) variant carriers and 994 PLP-free individuals, including 3 LGR carriers. RESULTS Healthy Chinese Han individuals demonstrated a distinct BRCA mutational spectrum compared to cancer patients, with a 0.53% (1 in 189) prevalence of pathogenic/likely pathogenic (PLP) variant, alongside a 3 in 2,080 occurrence of LGR. BRCA1 c. 5470_5477del demonstrated high prevalence (0.44%) in the North Han Chinese and penetrance for breast cancer. None of the 3 LGR carriers developed cancer during the follow-up. We calculated a relative risk of 135.55 (95% CI 25.07 to 732.88) for the development of BRCA mutation-related cancers in the BRCA PLP variant carriers (mean age 42.91 years, median follow-up 10 months) compared to PLP-free individuals (mean age 48.47 years, median follow-up 16 months). CONCLUSION The unique BRCA mutational profile in the Chinese Han highlights the potential for standardized population-based BRCA variant screening to enhance BRCA mutation-related cancer prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingyun Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiting Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinju Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanli Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Can Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuemei Tang
- Central Laboratory, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Haowen Jiang
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyi Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinli Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Yu
- Health Management Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Health Management Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ming Guan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China.
- Central Laboratory, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China.
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Kendel F, Speiser D, Fechner K, Olbrich C, Stegen S, Rörig A, Feufel MA, Haering S. Talking about Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk-Evaluation of a Psychosocial Training Module for Gynecologists in Germany. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:310. [PMID: 38254800 PMCID: PMC10813984 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020310] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary care gynecologists are increasingly integrated into the care of patients with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) risks. These physicians should not only have basic genetic knowledge; they should also feel able to sensitively address an increased HBOC risk and deal with emotional, stressful situations in this context. Our project aimed at developing a training module, 'iKNOWgynetics', addressing psychosocial challenges in the context of HBOC care for primary care gynecologists. We developed the psychosocial training module in three phases: first, we conducted an online survey with n = 35 women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer to assess patients' experiences and needs. Second, based on the results of the needs assessment, we developed the training module. Third, we evaluated the training by assessing physicians' (n = 109) self-efficacy with regard to communication skills in the context of HBOC before and after the training. In the needs assessment, seven psychosocial themes emerged. These themes, complementing a review of the literature, informed the training curriculum. The training was divided into two parts: (1) communicating with women before genetic testing and (2) care co-management for women with HBOC after genetic testing. After the training, participants reported a significant increase in self-efficacy in three domains: communicating empathetically, educating patients in a comprehensible way and dealing with emotionally challenging situations. Our results highlight the relevance of psychosocial issues for patients with HBOC. A genetic literacy training module that integrates aspects of psychosocial care increases physicians' confidence in dealing with emotionally challenging situations before and after their patients' genetic testing. Thus, such trainings may improve the care of women with hereditary cancer risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Kendel
- Gender in Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Dorothee Speiser
- Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.S.); (K.F.); (C.O.); (S.S.)
| | - Karen Fechner
- Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.S.); (K.F.); (C.O.); (S.S.)
| | - Christine Olbrich
- Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.S.); (K.F.); (C.O.); (S.S.)
| | - Stephanie Stegen
- Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (D.S.); (K.F.); (C.O.); (S.S.)
- BRCA-Netzwerk e.V., Thomas-Mann-Str. 40, 53111 Bonn, Germany
| | - Alina Rörig
- Division of Ergonomics, Department of Psychology and Ergonomics (IPA), Technische Universität Berlin, Marchstr. 23, 10587 Berlin, Germany; (A.R.); (M.A.F.)
| | - Markus A. Feufel
- Division of Ergonomics, Department of Psychology and Ergonomics (IPA), Technische Universität Berlin, Marchstr. 23, 10587 Berlin, Germany; (A.R.); (M.A.F.)
| | - Stephanie Haering
- Gender in Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt—Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
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Morgan J, MacInnes E, Erskine S, Walters SJ, Cook J, Collins K, Wyld L. Psychosocial outcomes after varying risk management strategies in women at increased familial breast cancer risk: a mixed methods study of patient and partner outcomes. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2024; 106:78-91. [PMID: 37458196 PMCID: PMC10757884 DOI: 10.1308/rcsann.2023.0042] [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] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Female carriers of BRCA1/2 genes have an increased lifetime risk of breast cancer. Options for managing risk include imaging surveillance or risk-reducing surgery (RRS). This mixed methods study aimed to identify factors affecting risk-management decisions and the psychosocial outcomes of these decisions for high-risk women and their partners. METHODS Semi-structured qualitative interviews were performed with women at high breast cancer risk who had faced these choices. Partners were also interviewed. Analysis used a framework approach. A bespoke questionnaire was developed to quantify and explore associations. RESULTS A total of 32 women were interviewed. Of these, 27 had partners of whom 7 (26%) agreed to be interviewed. Four main themes arose: perception of risk and impact of increased risk; risk-management strategy decision-making; impact of risk-management strategy; support needs and partner relationship issues. The questionnaire response rate was 36/157 (23%). Decision satisfaction was high in both surveillance and RRS groups. Relationship changes were common but not universal. Common causes of distress following RRS included adverse body image changes. Both groups experienced generalised and cancer-specific anxiety. Drivers for surgery included having children, deaths of close family from breast cancer and higher levels of cancer anxiety. CONCLUSIONS Levels of psychosocial and decision satisfaction were high for women choosing both RRS and surveillance but, for a minority, risk-reducing measures result in long-term psychosocial morbidity. Efforts to recognise women at increased risk of psychological morbidity may allow targeted support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E MacInnes
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - S Erskine
- East of England School of General Practice, Norwich, UK
| | | | - J Cook
- Sheffield Childrens NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | | | - L Wyld
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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Isselhard A, Lautz Z, Rhiem K, Stock S. Assessing Psychological Morbidity in Cancer-Unaffected BRCA1/2 Pathogenic Variant Carriers: A Systematic Review. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:3590-3608. [PMID: 37185387 PMCID: PMC10136916 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30040274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Female BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant carriers have an increased lifetime risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Cancer-unaffected women who are newly diagnosed with this pathogenic variant may experience psychological distress because of imminent health threat. No comprehensible review on psychological morbidity in cancer-unaffected BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant carriers is currently available. This review aims to give an overview about all available the studies in which psychological outcomes have been assessed in cancer-unaffected BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant carriers, whether as a primary outcome or secondary measurement. A systematic search across four databases (Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and EBSCO) was conducted. Studies had to report on cancer-unaffected pathogenic variant carriers (exclusively or separately) and use a validated measure of psychological morbidity to be eligible. Measures were only included if they were used in at least three studies. The final review consisted of 45 studies from 13 countries. Distress measures, including anxiety and cancer worry, were most often assessed. Most studies found a peak of distress immediately after genetic test result disclosure, with a subsequent decline over the following months. Only some studies found elevated distress in carriers compared to non-carriers in longer follow-ups. Depression was frequently investigated but largely not found to be of clinical significance. Quality of life seemed to be largely unaffected by a positive genetic test result, although there was some evidence that younger women, especially, were less satisfied with their role functioning in life. Body image has been infrequently assessed so far, but the evidence suggested that there may be a decrease in body image after genetic test result disclosure that may decrease further for women who opt for a prophylactic mastectomy. Across all the outcomes, various versions of instruments were used, often limiting the comparability among the studies. Hence, future research should consider using frequently used instruments, as outlined by this review. Finally, while many studies included cancer-unaffected carriers, they were often not reported on separately, which made it difficult to draw specific conclusions about this population.
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Padmanabhan H, Mariapun S, Lee SY, Hassan NT, Lee DSC, Meiser B, Wong SW, Lee YQ, Yip CH, Teo SH, Thong MK, Taib NAM, Yoon SY. Impact of BRCA1/2 cascade testing on anxiety, depression, and cancer worry levels among unaffected relatives in a multiethnic Asian cohort. J Genet Couns 2023; 32:43-56. [PMID: 35913122 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1619] [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: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Cascade testing for families with BRCA pathogenic variants is important to identify relatives who are carriers. These relatives can benefit from appropriate risk management and preventative strategies arising from an inherited increased risk of breast, ovarian, prostate, melanoma, and pancreatic cancers. Cascade testing has the potential to enable cost-effective cancer control even in low- and middle-income settings, but few studies have hitherto evaluated the psychosocial impact of cascade testing in an Asian population, where the cultural and religious beliefs around inheritance and destiny have previously been shown to influence perception and attitudes toward screening. In this study, we evaluated the short- and long-term psychosocial impact of genetic testing among unaffected relatives of probands identified through the Malaysian Breast Cancer Genetics Study and the Malaysian Ovarian Cancer Study, using validated questionnaires (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Cancer Worry Scale) administered at baseline, and 1-month and 2-year post-disclosure of results. Of the 305 unaffected relatives from 98 independent families who were offered cascade testing, 256 (84%) completed predictive testing and family history of cancers was the only factor significantly associated with uptake of predictive testing. We found that the levels of anxiety, depression, and cancer worry among unaffected relatives decreased significantly after result disclosure and remained low 2-year post-result disclosure. Younger relatives and relatives of Malay descent had higher cancer worry at both baseline and after result disclosure compared to those of Chinese and Indian descent, whereas relatives of Indian descent and those with family history of cancers had higher anxiety and depression levels post-result disclosure. Taken together, the results from this Asian cohort highlight the differences in psychosocial needs in different communities and inform the development of culture-specific genetic counseling strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Bettina Meiser
- Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Meow-Keong Thong
- Department of Paediatrics, Genetic Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Aishah Mohd Taib
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Firth C, Tripathi V, Kowalski Bellamy A, Somers N, Roos C, Tomlinson C. A unique service: how an embedded psychology team can help patients and genetics clinicians within a clinical genetics service. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 30:955-959. [PMID: 35577936 PMCID: PMC9349171 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01112-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The Genetics service at Guy's hospital has dedicated in-house psychology provision aimed at supporting patients embarking on genetic testing through to coping with the aftermath of genetic diagnoses. This provision offers assessment and intervention within a brief 6-session therapy model and provides a range of therapeutic approaches. Patient satisfaction with the service is high and referral rates have greatly increased over the recent years. The Psychology Team also provides indirect support for patients as well as support for the Genetics Team such as contributing to MDT and informal case discussions, as well as teaching and training clinicians about psychological concepts. There are many advantages to having an embedded psychology service both for patients and genetics clinicians, such as good opportunities for liaising around referrals and conducting joint clinical sessions, as well as being easily able to identify psychological training needs. The service plans to further develop by offering group interventions and training opportunities to doctoral psychology trainees. We conclude that clinical psychologists can play a highly integral and essential role in the provision of psychosocial support for clinical genetics teams and provide an overview of the first such integrated clinical psychology service within clinical genetics in the United Kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Firth
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, 7th floor, Borough Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK.
| | - Vishakha Tripathi
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, 7th floor, Borough Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK.
| | - Alicja Kowalski Bellamy
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, 7th floor, Borough Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Nadia Somers
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, 7th floor, Borough Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Caroline Roos
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, 7th floor, Borough Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Charlotte Tomlinson
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, 7th floor, Borough Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
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Makhnoon S, Arun B, Bedrosian I. Helping Patients Understand and Cope with BRCA Mutations. Curr Oncol Rep 2022; 24:733-740. [PMID: 35303253 PMCID: PMC8930486 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-022-01254-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Individuals carrying germline mutations in BRCA1/2 have unique psychosocial and educational needs that must be met to ensure informed clinical decision-making. In this review, we highlight the strategies used in clinical practice to support patients’ needs as well as currently available pre- and post-disclosure support interventions. Recent Findings Clinical risk communication is complicated by the uncertainty associated with gene penetrance, inconclusive results, variable effectiveness of surgical and screening interventions, and inadequate awareness of clinical genetics. Interventions to support patients’ psychosocial needs, and strategies for effective and scalable clinical risk communication are in routine use and largely effective at meeting patients’ needs. Research is underway to develop newer supportive resources; however, the inadequate representation of all mutation carriers persists. Summary Effective clinical risk communication strategies, decision support aids, written educational materials, and supportive psychosocial tools can together have a large impact on meeting BRCA carriers’ supportive needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukh Makhnoon
- Department of Behavioral Science, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Dan L. Duncan Building, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 1330, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Banu Arun
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Isabelle Bedrosian
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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10
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Psychiatric symptoms in a Spanish sample with hereditary cancer risk. J Community Genet 2022; 13:339-346. [DOI: 10.1007/s12687-022-00580-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Barnett M, Breen KE, Kennedy JA, Hernandez M, Matsoukas K, MacGregor M. Psychosocial interventions and needs among individuals and families with Li-Fraumeni syndrome: A scoping review. Clin Genet 2021; 101:161-182. [PMID: 34355387 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14042] [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: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS), a rare cancer predisposition syndrome caused by germline mutations in the TP53 gene, is associated with significant lifetime risk of developing cancer and warrants extensive and long-term surveillance. There are psychosocial impacts on individuals and families living with this condition, from the initial diagnosis throughout multiple stages across the lifespan, but these impacts have not been systematically reviewed and organized. The objective of this scoping review was to synthesize and characterize the literature on psychosocial screening and outcomes, educational needs, support services, and available interventions for patients and families with LFS. A systematic search of six databases was most recently conducted in August 2020: (PubMed/MEDLINE (NLM), EMBASE (Elsevier), Cochrane Library (Wiley), CINAHL (EBSCO), PsycINFO (OVID), and Web of Science (Clarivate Analytics). A total of 15 757 titles were screened, and 24 articles included. Several important themes were identified across studies: factors associated with TP53 genetic testing, LFS surveillance, psychological outcomes, and communication. Findings related to these themes were organized into age-specific categories (age agnostic/across the lifespan, childhood, adolescence and young adulthood, and adulthood).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Barnett
- Department of Psychiatry, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, USA
| | - Kelsey E Breen
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, USA
| | - Jennifer A Kennedy
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, USA
| | - Marisol Hernandez
- Medical Library, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, USA.,Medical Library, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York City, USA
| | | | - Meredith MacGregor
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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12
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Tiller J, McInerney-Leo A, Belcher A, Boughtwood T, Gleeson P, Delatycki M, Barlow-Stewart K, Winship I, Otlowski M, Keogh L, Lacaze P. Study protocol: the Australian genetics and life insurance moratorium-monitoring the effectiveness and response (A-GLIMMER) project. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:63. [PMID: 34020638 PMCID: PMC8138092 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00634-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The use of genetic test results in risk-rated insurance is a significant concern internationally, with many countries banning or restricting the use of genetic test results in underwriting. In Australia, life insurers’ use of genetic test results is legal and self-regulated by the insurance industry (Financial Services Council (FSC)). In 2018, an Australian Parliamentary Inquiry recommended that insurers’ use of genetic test results in underwriting should be prohibited. In 2019, the FSC introduced an industry self-regulated moratorium on the use of genetic test results. In the absence of government oversight, it is critical that the impact, effectiveness and appropriateness of the moratorium is monitored. Here we describe the protocol of our government-funded research project, which will serve that critical function between 2020 and 2023. Methods A realist evaluation framework was developed for the project, using a context-mechanism-outcome (CMO) approach, to systematically assess the impact of the moratorium for a range of stakeholders. Outcomes which need to be achieved for the moratorium to accomplish its intended aims were identified, and specific data collection measures methods were developed to gather the evidence from relevant stakeholder groups (consumers, health professionals, financial industry and genetic research community) to determine if aims are achieved. Results from each arm of the study will be analysed and published in peer-reviewed journals as they become available. Discussion The A-GLIMMER project will provide essential monitoring of the impact and effectiveness of the self-regulated insurance moratorium. On completion of the study (3 years) a Stakeholder Report will be compiled. The Stakeholder Report will synthesise the evidence gathered in each arm of the study and use the CMO framework to evaluate the extent to which each of the outcomes have been achieved, and make evidence-based recommendations to the Australian federal government, life insurance industry and other stakeholders. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12910-021-00634-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Tiller
- Public Health Genomics, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia. .,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Aideen McInerney-Leo
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Andrea Belcher
- Australian Genomics, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tiffany Boughtwood
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Australian Genomics, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Martin Delatycki
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kristine Barlow-Stewart
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ingrid Winship
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Genomic Medicine and Family Cancer Clinic, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Margaret Otlowski
- Faculty of Law and Centre for Law and Genetics, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Louise Keogh
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul Lacaze
- Public Health Genomics, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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13
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Boghosian T, McCuaig JM, Carlsson L, Metcalfe KA. Psychosocial Interventions for Women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutation: A Scoping Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071486. [PMID: 33804884 PMCID: PMC8037801 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation are at an increased risk of developing hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. While genetic counselling by genetic counsellors takes place before and after receiving the results of genetic testing, genetic counsellors are not involved in the patient’s long-term psychosocial follow-up. Genetic testing can cause short-term and long-term distress in women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, and follow-up supports may be necessary for some women. As the uptake of genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer increases, the need for additional sources of support may be needed. This review examined the effectiveness of psychological and psychoeducational interventions for BRCA mutation carriers. Abstract This scoping review aimed to explore the effectiveness of psychological and psychoeducational interventions for BRCA mutation carriers. Four electronic bibliographic databases were searched. After review, 23 articles that described or assessed forms of an additional psychosocial intervention for individuals with a BRCA mutation were identified and included. Intervention types discussed in the articles were telephone-based peer-to-peer counselling (5), online communities (4), in-person group counselling (8), and one-day sessions (6). Outcomes investigated within the articles included psychosocial outcomes (18), satisfaction (8), health behaviours (7), and knowledge (5). The included studies suggested that telephone-based peer-to-peer counselling and online communities improve patient knowledge and psychosocial functioning and can overcome challenges such as scheduling and travel associated with in-person support groups, but may have challenges with recruitment and retainment of participants. Group in-person education sessions satisfied the need amongst BRCA1/2 carriers in terms of accessing necessary information regarding cancer risk assessment and management; however, the impact of group education sessions on psychological outcomes was variable across the included studies. Overall, all the forms of intervention described in this scoping review were well-received by participants; some have been shown to reduce distress, depression, and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talin Boghosian
- Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 1N8, Canada;
| | - Jeanna M. McCuaig
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P8, Canada; (J.M.M.); (L.C.)
- Familial Cancer Clinic, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada
| | - Lindsay Carlsson
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P8, Canada; (J.M.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Kelly A. Metcalfe
- Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 1N8, Canada;
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P8, Canada; (J.M.M.); (L.C.)
- Correspondence:
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14
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McInerney-Leo AM, Duncan EL. Massively Parallel Sequencing for Rare Genetic Disorders: Potential and Pitfalls. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 11:628946. [PMID: 33679611 PMCID: PMC7933540 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.628946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
There have been two major eras in the history of gene discovery. The first was the era of linkage analysis, with approximately 1,300 disease-related genes identified by positional cloning by the turn of the millennium. The second era has been powered by two major breakthroughs: the publication of the human genome and the development of massively parallel sequencing (MPS). MPS has greatly accelerated disease gene identification, such that disease genes that would have taken years to map previously can now be determined in a matter of weeks. Additionally, the number of affected families needed to map a causative gene and the size of such families have fallen: de novo mutations, previously intractable by linkage analysis, can be identified through sequencing of the parent-child trio, and genes for recessive disease can be identified through MPS even of a single affected individual. MPS technologies include whole exome sequencing (WES), whole genome sequencing (WGS), and panel sequencing, each with their strengths. While WES has been responsible for most gene discoveries through MPS, WGS is superior in detecting copy number variants, chromosomal rearrangements, and repeat-rich regions. Panels are commonly used for diagnostic purposes as they are extremely cost-effective and generate manageable quantities of data, with no risk of unexpected findings. However, in instances of diagnostic uncertainty, it can be challenging to choose the right panel, and in these circumstances WES has a higher diagnostic yield. MPS has ethical, social, and legal implications, many of which are common to genetic testing generally but amplified due to the magnitude of data (e.g., relationship misattribution, identification of variants of uncertain significance, and genetic discrimination); others are unique to WES and WGS technologies (e.g., incidental or secondary findings). Nonetheless, MPS is rapidly translating into clinical practice as an extremely useful part of the clinical armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aideen M. McInerney-Leo
- Dermatology Research Centre, University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma L. Duncan
- Department of Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Chae S, Kim EK, Jang YR, Lee AS, Kim SK, Suh DH, Kim K, No JH, Kim YB, Kim SW, Kang E. Effect of risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy on the quality of life in Korean BRCA mutation carriers. Asian J Surg 2021; 44:1056-1062. [PMID: 33573923 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2021.01.007] [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] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to compare the quality of life (QOL), psychosocial status, sexual function, and menopausal symptoms between the risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) and non-RRSO groups comprising BRCA mutation carriers and to evaluate the effect of timing of RRSO on those aspects. METHODS This cross-sectional study recruited BRCA mutation carriers aged ≥35 years between September 2015 and September 2016. Demographic data of carriers were collected. Outcomes were measured using the questionnaires addressing QOL, anxiety, depression, optimism, sexual function, and menopausal symptoms. RESULTS Of 52 participants, 30 (57.7%) underwent RRSO, whereas 22 (42.3%) did not. In the RRSO group, 16 (53.3%) and 14 (46.7%) women underwent RRSO before and after menopause, respectively. The mean age in the RRSO group was higher than that in the non-RRSO group (49.8 vs. 42.1 years, respectively, p = 0.002). The scores for QOL, anxiety, depression, optimism, sexual function, and menopausal symptoms were similar between both groups. In the multivariate analysis, RRSO uptake was associated with worse physical QOL (coefficient, -5.350; 95% confidence interval, -10.593 to -0.108). With respect to the timing of RRSO, only the mental QOL was significantly lower in the postmenopausal RRSO group than in the premenopausal RRSO group (39.2 vs. 43.7, respectively, p = 0.043). CONCLUSION We could not find any difference in mental QOL, psychosocial status, sexual function, and menopausal symptoms between the RRSO and non-RRSO groups. RRSO uptake only affected worse physical QOL. These results will help physicians counsel BRCA mutation carriers about the effect of RRSO on QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumin Chae
- Department of Surgery, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun-Kyu Kim
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Ye Rang Jang
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Angela Soeun Lee
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Seul Ki Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Dong Hoon Suh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Kidong Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Jae Hong No
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Yong-Beom Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Sung-Won Kim
- Department of Surgery, Daerim St. Mary's Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eunyoung Kang
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea.
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16
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Godino L, Varesco L, Bruno W, Bruzzone C, Battistuzzi L, Franiuk M, Miccoli S, Bertonazzi B, Graziano C, Seri M, Turchetti D. Preferences of Italian patients for return of secondary findings from clinical genome/exome sequencing. J Genet Couns 2020; 30:665-675. [PMID: 33142017 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1350] [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: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Exome/genome sequencing (ES/GS) is increasingly becoming routine in clinical genetic diagnosis, yet issues regarding how to disclose and manage secondary findings (SFs) remain to be addressed, and limited evidence is available on patients' preferences. We carried out semi-structured interviews with 307 individuals undergoing clinical genetic testing to explore their preferences for return of SFs in the hypothetical scenario that their test would be performed using ES/GS. Participants were 254 females (82.7%) and 53 males (17.3%), aged 18-86 years; 73.9% (81.1% of those with lower education levels) reported no prior knowledge of ES/GS. Prior knowledge of ES/GS was more common among patients tested for Mendelian conditions (34.5%), compared to those undergoing cancer genetic testing (22.3%) or carrier screening (7.4%). Despite this reported lack of knowledge, most participants (213, 69.6%) stated they would prefer to be informed of all possible results. Reasons in favor of disclosure included wanting to be aware of any risks (168; 83.6%) and to help relatives (23; 11.4%), but also hope that preventive measures might become available in the future (10, 5%). Conversely, potential negative impact on quality of life was the commonest motivation against disclosure. Among 179 participants seen for cancer genetic counseling who were interviewed again after test disclosure, 81.9% had not heard about ES/GS in the meantime; however, the proportion of participants opting for disclosure of any variants was lower (116; 64.8%), with 36 (20.1%) changing opinion compared to the first interview. Based on these findings, we conclude that genetic counseling for ES/GS should involve enhanced education and decision-making support to enable informed consent to SFs disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Godino
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche: Centro di Ricerca sui Tumori Ereditari, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Liliana Varesco
- UOS Tumori Ereditari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - William Bruno
- SSD Genetica dei Tumori Rari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova - Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Carla Bruzzone
- UOS Tumori Ereditari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Linda Battistuzzi
- Dipartimento di Informatica, Bioingegneria, Robotica e Ingegneria dei Sistemi, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Marzena Franiuk
- UOS Tumori Ereditari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Sara Miccoli
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche: Centro di Ricerca sui Tumori Ereditari, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Benedetta Bertonazzi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Graziano
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Seri
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Turchetti
- Division of Medical Genetics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche: Centro di Ricerca sui Tumori Ereditari, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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17
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Butler E, Collier S, Hevey D. The factors associated with distress a minimum of six months after BRCA1/2 confirmation: A systematic review. J Psychosoc Oncol 2020; 39:646-672. [PMID: 33089755 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2020.1836109] [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] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION Many BRCA1/2 carriers experience an increase in distress after diagnosis; however, there is a need to review the longer term psychological implications of genetic confirmation and the factors associated with persistent distress. LITERATURE SEARCH This article systematically reviewed the literature in line with PRISMA guidelines on distress a minimum of six months after BRCA1/2 confirmation focusing on prevalence rates and factors associated with distress. DATA EVALUATION AND SYNTHESIS Fifteen studies were identified for inclusion and a narrative synthesis was conducted. Distress was associated with a range of demographic, clinical and psychological factors. A consistent finding was that although most carriers experience a reduction in distress 6-12 months after BRCA1/2 confirmation, those who experience persistent distress are more likely to have had higher distress levels at time of genetic testing. Risk reducing surgery may also play a role in reducing distress. CONCLUSION The review highlights the importance of psychological assessment and the use of specific distress measures. Given the considerable challenges in synthesizing the data there is a need for further prospective studies of high methodological quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Butler
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sonya Collier
- Department of Psychological Medicine, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David Hevey
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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18
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Points to consider for reporting of germline variation in patients undergoing tumor testing: a statement of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). Genet Med 2020; 22:1142-1148. [PMID: 32321997 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-020-0783-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
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19
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Palmero EI, Campacci N, Schüler-Faccini L, Giugliani R, Rocha JCCD, Vargas FR, Ashton-Prolla P. Cancer-related worry and risk perception in Brazilian individuals seeking genetic counseling for hereditary breast cancer. Genet Mol Biol 2020; 43:e20190097. [PMID: 32325485 PMCID: PMC7210979 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2019-0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In Brazil, the population in general has little knowledge about genetic risks, as well as regarding the role and importance of the Cancer Genetic Counseling (CGC). The goal of this study was to evaluate cancer-related worry and cancer risk perception during CGC sessions in Brazilian women at-risk for hereditary breast cancer. This study was performed in 264 individuals seeking CGC for hereditary breast cancer. Both cancer-affected and unaffected individuals were included. As results, individuals with and without cancer reported different motivations for seeking CGC and undergoing genetic testing. A correlation was observed between age at the first CGC session and age at which the closest relative was diagnosed with cancer. Multivariate analysis showed that educational level, cancer risk discussion within the family, and number of deaths by cancer among first-degree relatives influenced positively the cancer risk perception. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that cancer-related worry and cancer risk perception are significant aspects of morbidity in individuals seeking CGC, whether they are cancer-affected or unaffected. CGC has an important role in health education and cancer prevention for its potential of promoting an accurate perception of the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edenir Inêz Palmero
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Departamento de Genética, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Natalia Campacci
- Hospital de Câncer de Barretos, Centro de Pesquisa em Oncologia Molecular, Barretos, SP, Brazil
| | - Lavinia Schüler-Faccini
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Departamento de Genética, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Serviço de Genética Médica, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Roberto Giugliani
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Serviço de Genética Médica, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Patricia Ashton-Prolla
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Departamento de Genética, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Serviço de Genética Médica, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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20
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Evans O, Gaba F, Manchanda R. Population-based genetic testing for Women's cancer prevention. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2020; 65:139-153. [PMID: 32245629 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2020.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Germline mutations in cancer-susceptibility-genes (CSG) can dramatically increase womens' lifetime risk of ovarian, endometrial, breast and bowel cancers. Identification of unaffected carriers is important to enable proactive engagement with highly effective screening and preventive options to minimise cancer risk. Currently, a family-history model is used to identify individuals with CSGs. Complex regional referral guidelines specify the family-history criteria required before an individual is eligible for genetic-testing. This model is ineffective, resource intense, misses >50% CSG carriers, is associated with underutilisation of genetic-testing services and delays detection of mutation carriers. Although awareness and detection of CSG-carriers has improved, over 97% carriers remain unidentified. This reflects significant missed opportunities for precision-prevention. Population-based genetic-testing (PBGT) represents a novel healthcare strategy with the potential to dramatically improve detection of unaffected CSG-carriers along with enabling population risk-stratification for cancer precision-prevention. Several research studies have assessed the impact, feasibility, acceptability, long-term psychological outcomes and cost-effectiveness of population-based BRCA-testing in the Ashkenazi-Jewish population. Initial data on PBGT in the general-population is beginning to emerge and large implementation studies investigating PBGT in the general-population are needed. This review will summarise the current research into the clinical, psycho-social, health-economic, societal and ethical consequences of a PBGT model for women's cancer precision-prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Evans
- Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Barts CRUK Cancer Centre, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK; Department of Gynaecological Oncology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, EC1A 7BE, London, UK
| | - Faiza Gaba
- Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Barts CRUK Cancer Centre, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK; Department of Gynaecological Oncology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, EC1A 7BE, London, UK
| | - Ranjit Manchanda
- Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Barts CRUK Cancer Centre, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK; Department of Gynaecological Oncology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, EC1A 7BE, London, UK.
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21
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Park CS, Park HY, Jung JH, Kim WW, Chae YS, Lee SJ, Park JY, Park JY, Lee J. Comparison of clinical features and oncologic outcomes between familial non-hereditary and hereditary breast cancer in Korean female patients. Asian J Surg 2020; 43:996-1001. [PMID: 31924417 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2019.12.001] [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: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors compared the clinical features between familial (non-hereditary) and hereditary breast cancer. And we also analyzed their oncologic outcomes to establish appropriate surveillance protocol for familial (non-hereditary) and hereditary breast cancer. METHODS Among 232 patients with breast cancer who were performed BRCA gene evaluation, twenty-eight patients were diagnosed as hereditary breast cancer with BRCA gene mutation and one-hundred and seventy-six patients were familial (non-hereditary) breast cancer. The clinical characteristics and oncologic outcomes were compared between two groups. RESULTS While the incidence of multifocality was higher in familial (non-hereditary) breast cancer group (p < 0.001), the bilaterality was higher in hereditary breast cancer group (p < 0.001). And the rate of pathologic complete remission was also significantly higher in hereditary breast cancer group (p = 0.030). The characteristics of tumor were different between familial (non-hereditary) breast cancer and hereditary breast cancer. The oncologic outcome was better in familial (non-hereditary) breast cancer group than hereditary breast cancer group except death. CONCLUSION The clinical characteristics of familial (non-hereditary) breast cancer were different from those of hereditary breast cancer but similar to those of sporadic breast cancer. The prognosis of the familial (non-hereditary) breast cancer was significantly better than hereditary breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Sub Park
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Yong Park
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea; Joint Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hyang Jung
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan Wook Kim
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Yee Soo Chae
- Department of Hemato-oncology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jung Lee
- Department of Hemato-oncology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Young Park
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Young Park
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeeyeon Lee
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Conley CC, Kasting ML, Augusto BM, Garcia JD, Cragun D, Gonzalez BD, Kim J, Ashing KT, Knott CL, Hughes-Halbert C, Pal T, Vadaparampil ST. Impact of Genetic Testing on Risk-Management Behavior of Black Breast Cancer Survivors: A Longitudinal, Observational Study. Ann Surg Oncol 2019; 27:1659-1670. [PMID: 31677107 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-019-07982-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black women are overrepresented among premenopausal breast cancer (BC) survivors. These patients warrant genetic testing (GT) followed by risk-reducing behaviors. This study documented patterns and predictors of cancer risk-management behaviors among young black BC survivors after GT. METHODS Black women (n = 143) with a diagnosis of BC at the age of 50 years or younger received GT. At 1 year after GT, participants reported receipt of risk-reducing mastectomy, risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy, mammogram, breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CA125 test, and transvaginal/pelvic ultrasound. Logistic regression was used to examine predictors of BC risk management (risk-reducing mastectomy or breast MRI) and ovarian cancer risk management (risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy, CA125 test, or transvaginal/pelvic ultrasound). RESULTS Of the study participants, 16 (11%) were BRCA1/2-positive, 43 (30%) had a variant of uncertain significance, and 84 (59%) were negative. During the 12 months after GT, no women received risk-reducing mastectomy. The majority (93%) received a mammogram, and a smaller proportion received breast MRI (33%), risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (10%), CA125 test (11%), or transvaginal/pelvic ultrasound (34%). Longer time since the BC diagnosis predicted lower likelihood of BC risk management (odds ratio [OR] 0.54). BRCA1/2 carrier status (OR 4.57), greater perceived risk of recurrence (OR 8.03), and more hereditary breast and ovarian cancer knowledge (OR 1.37) predicted greater likelihood of ovarian cancer risk management. CONCLUSIONS Young black BC survivors appropriately received mammograms and ovarian cancer risk management based on their BRCA1/2 test result. However, the low usage of MRI among BRCA1/2 carriers contrasts with national guidelines. Future research should examine barriers to MRI among black BC survivors. Finally, modifiable variables predicting risk management after GT were identified, providing implications for future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire C Conley
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Monica L Kasting
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Bianca M Augusto
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jennifer D Garcia
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Deborah Cragun
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Brian D Gonzalez
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jongphil Kim
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Kimlin Tam Ashing
- Department of Population Sciences, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Cheryl L Knott
- School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Chanita Hughes-Halbert
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Tuya Pal
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Susan T Vadaparampil
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
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23
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Pelletier S, Larouche G, Chiquette J, El Haffaf Z, Foulkes WD, Hamet P, Simard J, Dorval M. Survey of primary care physicians' views about breast and ovarian cancer screening for true BRCA1/2 non-carriers. J Community Genet 2019; 11:205-213. [PMID: 31659621 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-019-00438-3] [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: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite some controversy, true BRCA1/2 non-carriers are generally considered to be at an average risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Primary care physicians are then expected to encourage their non-carrier patients to adopt cancer screening practices appropriate to women of the same age in the general population. This study aimed to describe breast and ovarian cancer screening recommendations that primary care physicians would consider advisable for young true BRCA1/2 non-carriers. One hundred thirty-four family physicians and 123 gynecologists (response rate 45%) completed a cross-sectional mailed survey administered in the Province of Quebec, Canada. The survey included questions about basic genetic knowledge and screening recommendations for two fictitious cases (< 40 years), one carrier and one non-carrier, from a BRCA1/2 mutation-positive family. Screening exams considered advisable did not differ significantly between family physicians and gynecologists. More than 75% of physicians considered the cancer risks of true non-carriers to be comparable with that of the general population and 14% to be a little higher. Still, 53% would prescribe a biennial and or even an annual (27%) mammography to a non-carrier woman before the recommended starting age. Physician considerations of non-carriers' expectations or requests for screening were associated with more screening prescriptions. More than half of primary care physicians would recommend more mammography screenings than expected for a young true BRCA1/2 non-carrier. Personalized cancer risk assessment may help primary care physicians tailor screening of women from BRCA1/2 mutation-positive families and allow these women to make more informed choices regarding cancer risk management options.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pelletier
- Oncology Division, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, 1050, chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, QC, G1S 4L8, Canada.,Université Laval Cancer Research Centre, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - G Larouche
- Oncology Division, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, 1050, chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, QC, G1S 4L8, Canada.,Université Laval Cancer Research Centre, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - J Chiquette
- Oncology Division, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, 1050, chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, QC, G1S 4L8, Canada.,Université Laval Cancer Research Centre, Québec, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Z El Haffaf
- Genetic Medicine Service, Montreal University Hospital (CHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - W D Foulkes
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Lady Davis Institute of the Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Departments of Oncology, Human Genetics and Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - P Hamet
- Research Centre, Montreal University Hospital (CHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - J Simard
- Oncology Division, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, 1050, chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, QC, G1S 4L8, Canada.,Université Laval Cancer Research Centre, Québec, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Canada Research Chair in Oncogenetics, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - M Dorval
- Oncology Division, CHU de Québec - Université Laval Research Center, 1050, chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, QC, G1S 4L8, Canada. .,Université Laval Cancer Research Centre, Québec, QC, Canada. .,Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada. .,Research Centre of the CISSS Chaudière-Appalaches, Lévis, QC, Canada.
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24
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Jeffers L, Reid J, Fitzsimons D, Morrison PJ, Dempster M. Interventions to improve psychosocial well-being in female BRCA-mutation carriers following risk-reducing surgery. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 10:CD012894. [PMID: 31595976 PMCID: PMC6784162 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012894.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who carry a pathogenic mutation in either a BRCA1 DNA repair associated or BRCA2 DNA repair associated (BRCA1 or BRCA2) gene have a high lifetime risk of developing breast and tubo-ovarian cancer. To manage this risk women may choose to undergo risk-reducing surgery to remove breast tissue, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Surgery should increase survival, but can impact women's lives adversely at the psychological and psychosexual levels. Interventions to facilitate psychological adjustment and improve quality of life post risk-reducing surgery are needed. OBJECTIVES To examine psychosocial interventions in female BRCA carriers who have undergone risk-reducing surgery and to evaluate the effectiveness of such interventions on psychological adjustment and quality of life. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE and Embase via Ovid, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science up to April 2019 and Scopus up to January 2018. We also handsearched abstracts of scientific meetings and other relevant publications. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCT), non-randomised studies (NRS), prospective and retrospective cohort studies and interventional studies using baseline and postintervention analyses in female BRCA carriers who have undergone risk-reducing surgery. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed eligibility studies for inclusion in the review. We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. MAIN RESULTS We screened 4956 records from the searches, selecting 34 unique studies for full-text scrutiny, of which two met the inclusion criteria: one RCT and one NRS. The included studies assessed 113 female BRCA carriers who had risk-reducing surgery, but there was attrition, and outcome data were not available for all participants at final study assessments. We assessed the RCT as at a high risk of bias whilst the NRS did not have a control group. Our GRADE assessment of the studies was very low-certainty due to the paucity of data and methodological shortcomings of the studies. The primary outcome of quality of life was only measured in the RCT and that was specific to the menopause. Both studies reported on psychological distress and sexual function. Neither study measured body image, perhaps because this is most often associated with risk-reducing mastectomy rather than oophorectomy.The RCT (66 participants recruited with 48 followed to 12 months) assessed the short- and long-term effects of an eight-week mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) training programme on quality of life, sexual functioning, and sexual distress in female BRCA carriers (n = 34) in a specialised family cancer clinic in the Netherlands compared to female BRCA carriers (n = 32) who received usual care. Measurements on the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL) showed some improvement at 3 and 12 months compared to the usual care group. At 3 months the mean MENQOL scores were 3.5 (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.0 to 3.9) and 3.8 (95% CI 3.3 to 4.2) for the MBSR and usual care groups respectively, whilst at 12 months the corresponding values were 3.6 (95% CI 3.1 to 4.0) and 3.9 (95% CI 3.5 to 4.4) (1 study; 48 participants followed up at 12 months). However, these results should be interpreted with caution due to the very low-certainty of the evidence, where a lower score is better. Other outcome measures on the Female Sexual Function Index and the Female Sexual Distress Scale showed no significant differences between the two groups. Our GRADE assessment of the evidence was very low-certainty due to the lack of blinding of participants and personnel, attrition bias and self-selection (as only one-third of eligible women chose to participate in the study) and serious imprecision due to the small sample size and wide 95% CI.The NRS comprised 37 female BRCA carriers selected from three Boston-area hospitals who had undergone a novel sexual health intervention following risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) without a history of tubo-ovarian cancer. The intervention consisted of targeted sexual-health education, body awareness and relaxation training, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy strategies, followed by two sessions of tailored telephone counselling. This was a single-arm study without a control group. Our GRADE assessment of the evidence was very low-certainty, and as there was no comparison group in the included study, we could not estimate a relative effect. The study reported change in psychosexual adjustment from baseline to postintervention (median 2.3 months) using measures of Female Sexual Function Index (n = 34), which yielded change with a mean of 3.91, standard deviation (SD) 9.12, P = 0.018 (1 study, 34 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The Brief Symptom Inventory, Global Severity Index yielded a mean change of 3.92, SD 5.94, P < 0.001. The Sexual Self-Efficacy Scale yielded change with a mean of 12.14, SD 20.56, P < 0.001. The Sexual Knowledge Scale reported mean change of 1.08, SD 1.50, P < 0.001 (n = 36). Participant satisfaction was measured by questionnaire, and 100% participants reported that they enjoyed taking part in the psychoeducation group and felt "certain" or "very certain" that they had learned new skills to help them cope with the sexual side effects of RRSO. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The effect of psychosocial interventions on quality of life and emotional well-being in female BRCA carriers who undergo risk-reducing surgery is uncertain given the very low methodological quality in the two studies included in the review. The absence of such interventions highlights the need for partnership between researchers and clinicians in this specific area to take forward the patient-reported outcomes and develop interventions to address the psychosocial issues related to risk-reducing surgery in female BRCA carriers, particularly in this new era of genomics, where testing may become more mainstream and many more women are identified as gene carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Jeffers
- Regional Medical Genetics CentreMedical GeneticsBelfast Health and Social Care TrustLisburn RoadBelfastUKBT9 7AB
| | - Joanne Reid
- Queen's University BelfastSchool of Nursing and Midwifery10 Malone RoadBelfastUKBT9 5BN
| | - Donna Fitzsimons
- Queen's University BelfastSchool of Nursing and Midwifery10 Malone RoadBelfastUKBT9 5BN
| | - Patrick J Morrison
- Regional Medical Genetics CentreMedical GeneticsBelfast Health and Social Care TrustLisburn RoadBelfastUKBT9 7AB
- Queen's University BelfastCentre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology97 Lisburn RoadBelfastUKBT9 7AE
| | - Martin Dempster
- Queen's University BelfastSchool of PsychologyUniversity RoadBelfastNorthern IrelandUKBT7 1NN
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25
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Shickh S, Clausen M, Mighton C, Gutierrez Salazar M, Zakoor KR, Kodida R, Reble E, Elser C, Eisen A, Panchal S, Aronson M, Graham T, Armel SR, Morel CF, Fattouh R, Glogowski E, Schrader KA, Hamilton JG, Offit K, Robson M, Carroll JC, Isaranuwatchai W, Kim RH, Lerner-Ellis J, Thorpe KE, Laupacis A, Bombard Y. Health outcomes, utility and costs of returning incidental results from genomic sequencing in a Canadian cancer population: protocol for a mixed-methods randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e031092. [PMID: 31594892 PMCID: PMC6797333 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genomic sequencing has rapidly transitioned into clinical practice, improving diagnosis and treatment options for patients with hereditary disorders. However, large-scale implementation of genomic sequencing faces challenges, especially with regard to the return of incidental results, which refer to genetic variants uncovered during testing that are unrelated to the primary disease under investigation, but of potential clinical significance. High-quality evidence evaluating health outcomes and costs of receiving incidental results is critical for the adoption of genomic sequencing into clinical care and to understand the unintended consequences of adoption of genomic sequencing. We aim to evaluate the health outcomes and costs of receiving incidental results for patients undergoing genomic sequencing. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will compare health outcomes and costs of receiving, versus not receiving, incidental results for adult patients with cancer undergoing genomic sequencing in a mixed-methods randomised controlled trial. Two hundred and sixty patients who have previously undergone first or second-tier genetic testing for cancer and received uninformative results will be recruited from familial cancer clinics in Toronto, Ontario. Participants in both arms will receive cancer-related results. Participants in the intervention arm have the option to receive incidental results. Our primary outcome is psychological distress at 2 weeks following return of results. Secondary outcomes include behavioural consequences, clinical and personal utility assessed over the 12 months after results are returned and health service use and costs at 12 months and 5 years. A subset of participants and providers will complete qualitative interviews about utility of incidental results. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by Clinical Trials Ontario Streamlined Research Ethics Review System that provides ethical review and oversight for multiple sites participating in the same clinical trial in Ontario.Results from the trial will be shared through stakeholder workshops, national and international conferences, and peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03597165.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Shickh
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Genomics Health Services Research Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marc Clausen
- Genomics Health Services Research Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chloe Mighton
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Genomics Health Services Research Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mariana Gutierrez Salazar
- Genomics Health Services Research Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathleen-Rose Zakoor
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rita Kodida
- Genomics Health Services Research Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emma Reble
- Genomics Health Services Research Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christine Elser
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Marvelle Koffler Breast Centre, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Eisen
- Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Seema Panchal
- Marvelle Koffler Breast Centre, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melyssa Aronson
- Zane Cohen Centre for Digestive Diseases, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tracy Graham
- Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan Randall Armel
- Familial Breast Ovarian Cancer Clinic, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chantal F Morel
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Fred A. Litwin Centre in Genetic Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ramzi Fattouh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kasmintan A Schrader
- Department of Molecular Oncology and Hereditary Cancer Program, BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jada G Hamilton
- Clinical Genetics Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Kenneth Offit
- Clinical Genetics Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Mark Robson
- Clinical Genetics Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
- Breast Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - June C Carroll
- Ray D Wolfe Department of Family Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wanrudee Isaranuwatchai
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for exceLlence in Economic Analysis Research (CLEAR), Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Raymond H Kim
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordan Lerner-Ellis
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kevin E Thorpe
- Applied Health Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andreas Laupacis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Palliative Care, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yvonne Bombard
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Genomics Health Services Research Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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26
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Germline Genetics and Childhood Cancer: Emerging Cancer Predisposition Syndromes and Psychosocial Impacts. Curr Oncol Rep 2019; 21:85. [PMID: 31414239 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-019-0836-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Germline genetic variants contribute to a substantial proportion of cases of cancer in childhood. The purpose of this review is to describe two emerging pediatric cancer predisposition syndromes, including published surveillance protocols, as well as the psychological impacts related to childhood cancer predisposition. RECENT FINDINGS DICER1 syndrome is pleotropic, predisposing to a variety of tumors and likely phenotypically broader than currently realized. Rhabdoid tumor predisposition syndrome carries a risk for development of aggressive malignancies occurring in nearly any tissue. New pediatric hereditary cancer syndromes are likely to be identified as genetic evaluation evolves. Advantages and disadvantages of genetic testing and surveillance protocols need to be discussed with patients and families in a team-based approach, with the input of a genetic counselor holding expertise in pediatric cancer predisposition. Finally, literature on psychosocial impacts of hereditary cancer syndromes in pediatric patients is sparse, necessitating further research.
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27
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Rojas KE, Butler E, Gutierrez J, Kwait R, Laprise J, Wilbur JS, Spinette S, Raker CA, Robison K, Legare R, Gass J, Stuckey A. Choosing high-risk screening vs. surgery and the effect of treatment modality on anxiety and breast-specific sensuality in BRCA mutation carriers. Gland Surg 2019; 8:249-257. [PMID: 31328104 DOI: 10.21037/gs.2019.04.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background We have previously shown that breast cancer surgery affects breast specific sensuality, and that women who undergo mastectomy may have worse sexual function outcomes than those who undergo lumpectomy. It is less clear if patients who undergo prophylactic mastectomy are equally as affected as those with a cancer diagnosis. We sought to compare sexual function outcomes and their relationship to depression and anxiety between BRCA mutation carriers (mBRCA) with and without cancer in order to guide surgical counseling and improve survivorship outcomes. Methods A confidential, cross-sectional survey was distributed electronically to mBRCA at least 18 years of age. The survey included investigator-generated questions, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) surveys. Responses were analyzed in total and divided into two subgroups: those with and without breast cancer. Results Sixty-three mBRCA responded (37%) of 170 email addresses were identified, and 77% were postmenopausal. Although more than half of all mBRCA reported that the role of the breast in intimacy was important, most patients without cancer and all of those with cancer experienced an impressive decline in certain breast-specific sensuality parameters postoperatively. Among those without cancer, anxiety scores were not different between those choosing prophylactic mastectomy and high-risk screening (HRS). Sexual function as measured by the FSFI was negatively correlated with depression and anxiety in mBRCA. FSFI scores were not significantly different between those with and without cancer. However, the median FSFI of mBRCA with cancer, those undergoing HRS, and those who underwent prophylactic mastectomy indicated sexual dysfunction. Conclusions As the availability of genetic testing increases, more women are found to harbor BRCA mutations and must choose between HRS and prophylactic surgery. Women with BRCA mutations, both with and without breast cancer, are susceptible to derangements in sexual function during the course of both screening or treatment, and this appears to be negatively correlated to depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin E Rojas
- Brooklyn Breast Program, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn NY, USA
| | | | - Julie Gutierrez
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Jessica Laprise
- Program in Women's Oncology, Brown University, Women and Infants' Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jennifer Scalia Wilbur
- Program in Women's Oncology, Brown University, Women and Infants' Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | - Christina A Raker
- Program in Women's Oncology, Brown University, Women and Infants' Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Katina Robison
- Program in Women's Oncology, Brown University, Women and Infants' Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Robert Legare
- Program in Women's Oncology, Brown University, Women and Infants' Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jennifer Gass
- Program in Women's Oncology, Brown University, Women and Infants' Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Ashley Stuckey
- Program in Women's Oncology, Brown University, Women and Infants' Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
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28
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Battistuzzi L, Franiuk M, Kasparian N, Rania N, Migliorini L, Varesco L. A qualitative study on decision‐making about
BRCA1/2
testing in Italian women. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 28:e13083. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Battistuzzi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering University of Genoa Genoa Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Marzena Franiuk
- Unit of Hereditary Cancer San Martino Polyclinic Hospital Genoa Italy
| | - Nadine Kasparian
- Harvard Medical School Harvard University Boston Massachusetts
- Department of Cardiology Boston Children’s Hospital Boston Massachusetts
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women’s and Children’s Health UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Nadia Rania
- Department of Education Sciences University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Laura Migliorini
- Department of Education Sciences University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Liliana Varesco
- Unit of Hereditary Cancer San Martino Polyclinic Hospital Genoa Italy
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29
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Deshields TL, Dueck AC, Rogers K, Brown JR, Shanafelt T, Mintzer D, Byrd JC. Perceived risk for cancer progression and psychological status in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients: CALGB 70603 (Alliance). Leuk Lymphoma 2019; 60:2580-2583. [PMID: 30916608 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1594218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa L Deshields
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine , St. Louis , MO , USA
| | - Amylou C Dueck
- Alliance Statistics and Data Center, Mayo Clinic , Scottsdale , AZ , USA
| | - Kerry Rogers
- Division of Hematology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center , Columbus , OH , USA
| | - Jennifer R Brown
- Department of Hematologic Malignancies, Dana-Farber/Partners Cancer Care , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Tait Shanafelt
- Department of Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine , Palo Alto , CA , USA
| | - David Mintzer
- Division of Hematology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center , Columbus , OH , USA.,Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia , PA
| | - John C Byrd
- Division of Hematology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center , Columbus , OH , USA
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30
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Lee EG, Kang HJ, Lim MC, Park B, Park SJ, Jung SY, Lee S, Kang HS, Park SY, Park B, Joo J, Han JH, Kong SY, Lee ES. Different Patterns of Risk Reducing Decisions in Affected or Unaffected BRCA Pathogenic Variant Carriers. Cancer Res Treat 2018; 51:280-288. [PMID: 29747489 PMCID: PMC6333981 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2018.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate decision patterns to reduce the risks of BRCArelated breast and gynecologic cancers in carriers of BRCA pathogenic variants. We found a change in risk-reducing (RR) management patterns after December 2012, when the National Health Insurance System (NHIS) of Korea began to pay for BRCA testing and riskreducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) in pathogenic-variant carriers. Materials and Methods The study group consisted of 992 patients, including 705 with breast cancer (BC), 23 with ovarian cancer (OC), 10 with both, and 254 relatives of high-risk patients who underwent BRCA testing at the National Cancer Center of Korea from January 2008 to December 2016.We analyzed patterns of and factors in RR management. Results Of the 992 patients, 220 (22.2%) were carriers of BRCA pathogenic variants. About 92.3% (203/220) had a family history of BC and/or OC,which significantly differed between BRCA1 and BRCA2 carriers (p < 0.001). All 41 male carriers chose surveillance. Of the 179 female carriers, 59 of the 83 carriers (71.1%) with BC and the 39 of 79 unaffected carriers (49.4%) underwent RR management. None of the carriers affected with OC underwent RR management. Of the management types, RRSO had the highest rate (42.5%) of patient choice. The rate of RR surgery was significantly higher after 2013 than before 2013 (46.3% [74/160] vs. 31.6% [6/19], p < 0.001). Conclusion RRSO was the preferred management for carriers of BRCA pathogenic variants. The most important factors in treatment choice were NHIS reimbursement and/or the severity of illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Gyeong Lee
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Hyok Jo Kang
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Myong Cheol Lim
- Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea.,Center for Uterine Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea.,Cancer Healthcare Research Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Boyoung Park
- Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Soo Jin Park
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - So-Youn Jung
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Seeyoun Lee
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Han-Sung Kang
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Sang-Yoon Park
- Center for Uterine Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea.,Common Cancer Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Boram Park
- Biometrics Research Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Management, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jungnam Joo
- Biometrics Research Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Management, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jai Hong Han
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Sun-Young Kong
- Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea.,Department of Laboratory Medicine & Genetic Counselling Clinics, Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Eun Sook Lee
- Center for Breast Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea.,Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
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Best M, Newson AJ, Meiser B, Juraskova I, Goldstein D, Tucker K, Ballinger ML, Hess D, Schlub TE, Biesecker B, Vines R, Vines K, Thomas D, Young MA, Savard J, Jacobs C, Butow P. The PiGeOn project: protocol of a longitudinal study examining psychosocial and ethical issues and outcomes in germline genomic sequencing for cancer. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:454. [PMID: 29685123 PMCID: PMC5914013 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4366-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Advances in genomics offer promise for earlier detection or prevention of cancer, by personalisation of medical care tailored to an individual’s genomic risk status. However genome sequencing can generate an unprecedented volume of results for the patient to process with potential implications for their families and reproductive choices. This paper describes a protocol for a study (PiGeOn) that aims to explore how patients and their blood relatives experience germline genomic sequencing, to help guide the appropriate future implementation of genome sequencing into routine clinical practice. Methods We have designed a mixed-methods, prospective, cohort sub-study of a germline genomic sequencing study that targets adults with cancer suggestive of a genetic aetiology. One thousand probands and 2000 of their blood relatives will undergo germline genomic sequencing as part of the parent study in Sydney, Australia between 2016 and 2020. Test results are expected within12–15 months of recruitment. For the PiGeOn sub-study, participants will be invited to complete surveys at baseline, three months and twelve months after baseline using self-administered questionnaires, to assess the experience of long waits for results (despite being informed that results may not be returned) and expectations of receiving them. Subsets of both probands and blood relatives will be purposively sampled and invited to participate in three semi-structured qualitative interviews (at baseline and each follow-up) to triangulate the data. Ethical themes identified in the data will be used to inform critical revisions of normative ethical concepts or frameworks. Discussion This will be one of the first studies internationally to follow the psychosocial impact on probands and their blood relatives who undergo germline genome sequencing, over time. Study results will inform ongoing ethical debates on issues such as informed consent for genomic sequencing, and informing participants and their relatives of specific results. The study will also provide important outcome data concerning the psychological impact of prolonged waiting for germline genomic sequencing. These data are needed to ensure that when germline genomic sequencing is introduced into standard clinical settings, ethical concepts are embedded, and patients and their relatives are adequately prepared and supported during and after the testing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Best
- Psycho-oncology Co-operative Research Group (PoCoG), Level 6 North, Lifehouse (C39Z), University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia. .,Sydney Health Ethics, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Ainsley J Newson
- Sydney Health Ethics, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Bettina Meiser
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Ilona Juraskova
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology (CeMPED - Psychology), University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - David Goldstein
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Kathy Tucker
- Hereditary Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Mandy L Ballinger
- Cancer Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2021, Australia
| | - Dominique Hess
- Cancer Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2021, Australia
| | - Timothy E Schlub
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Barbara Biesecker
- National Human Genome Research, National Institutes of Health, 31 Center Drive, MSC 2073, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Richard Vines
- Rare Cancers, PO Box 440, Bowral, NSW, 2576, Australia
| | - Kate Vines
- Rare Cancers, PO Box 440, Bowral, NSW, 2576, Australia
| | - David Thomas
- Cancer Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2021, Australia
| | - Mary-Anne Young
- Genome One, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2021, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Savard
- Sydney Health Ethics, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Chris Jacobs
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Phyllis Butow
- Psycho-oncology Co-operative Research Group (PoCoG), Level 6 North, Lifehouse (C39Z), University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology (CeMPED - Psychology), University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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32
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Patient-Centered Care in Breast Cancer Genetic Clinics. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15020319. [PMID: 29439543 PMCID: PMC5858388 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15020319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
With advances in breast cancer (BC) gene panel testing, risk counseling has become increasingly complex, potentially leading to unmet psychosocial needs. We assessed psychosocial needs and correlates in women initiating testing for high genetic BC risk in clinics in France and Germany, and compared these results with data from a literature review. Among the 442 counselees consecutively approached, 212 (83%) in France and 180 (97%) in Germany, mostly BC patients (81% and 92%, respectively), returned the ‘Psychosocial Assessment in Hereditary Cancer’ questionnaire. Based on the Breast and Ovarian Analysis of Disease Incidence and Carrier Estimation Algorithm (BOADICEA) BC risk estimation model, the mean BC lifetime risk estimates were 19% and 18% in France and Germany, respectively. In both countries, the most prevalent needs clustered around the “living with cancer” and “children-related issues” domains. In multivariate analyses, a higher number of psychosocial needs were significantly associated with younger age (b = −0.05), higher anxiety (b = 0.78), and having children (b = 1.51), but not with country, educational level, marital status, depression, or loss of a family member due to hereditary cancer. These results are in line with the literature review data. However, this review identified only seven studies that quantitatively addressed psychosocial needs in the BC genetic counseling setting. Current data lack understandings of how cancer risk counseling affects psychosocial needs, and improves patient-centered care in that setting.
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33
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Identification as a Mutation Carrier and Effects on Life According to Experiences of Finnish Male BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers. J Genet Couns 2018; 27:874-884. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0209-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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34
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Jeffers L, Reid J, Fitzsimons D, Morrison PJ, Dempster M. Interventions to improve psychosocial well-being in female BRCA
-mutation carriers following risk-reducing surgery. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Jeffers
- Regional Medical Genetics Centre; Medical Genetics; Belfast Health and Social Care Trust Lisburn Road Belfast UK BT9 7AB
| | - Joanne Reid
- Queen's University Belfast; School of Nursing and Midwifery; 10 Malone Road Belfast UK BT9 5BN
| | - Donna Fitzsimons
- Queen's University Belfast; School of Nursing and Midwifery; 10 Malone Road Belfast UK BT9 5BN
| | - Patrick J Morrison
- Regional Medical Genetics Centre; Medical Genetics; Belfast Health and Social Care Trust Lisburn Road Belfast UK BT9 7AB
- The Queen's University Belfast; Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology; 97 Lisburn Road Belfast UK BT9 7AE
| | - Martin Dempster
- Queen's University Belfast; School of Psychology; University Road Belfast Northern Ireland UK BT7 1NN
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35
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Guedaoura S, Pelletier S, Foulkes W, Hamet P, Simard J, Wong N, El Haffaf Z, Chiquette J, Dorval M. No evidence of excessive cancer screening in female noncarriers from BRCA1/2 mutation-positive families. Curr Oncol 2017; 24:352-359. [PMID: 29270046 PMCID: PMC5736476 DOI: 10.3747/co.24.3759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In families with a proven BRCA1/2 mutation, women not carrying the familial mutation should follow the cancer screening recommendations applying to women in the general population. In the present study, we evaluated the cancer screening practices of unaffected noncarriers from families with a proven BRCA mutation, and we assessed the role of family history in their screening practices. METHODS Self-report data were provided retrospectively by 220 unaffected female noncarriers for periods of up to 10 years (mean: 4.3 years) since disclosure of their BRCA1/2 genetic test result. A ratio for the annual frequency of breast and ovarian cancer screening exams (mammography, breast ultrasonography, breast magnetic resonance imaging, transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound, cancer antigen 125 testing) was calculated as number of screening exams divided by the number of years in the individual observation period. RESULTS The annual average for mammography exams was 0.15, 0.4, 0.56, and 0.71 in women 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-69 years of age respectively. The uptake of other breast and ovarian cancer screening exams was very low. Mammography and breast ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging were generally more frequent among participants with at least 1 first-degree relative affected by breast cancer. CONCLUSIONS In most noncarriers, screening practices are consistent with the guidelines concerning women in the general population. When noncarriers adopt screening behaviours that are different from those that would be expected for average-risk women, those behaviours are influenced by their familial cancer history. IMPACT Decision tools might help female noncarriers to be involved in their follow-up in accordance with their genetic status and their family history, while taking into account the benefits and disadvantages of cancer screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Guedaoura
- Faculté de pharmacie, Université Laval, Québec
- Centre de recherche du chu de Québec-Université Laval, Québec
| | - S. Pelletier
- Centre de recherche du chu de Québec-Université Laval, Québec
| | - W.D. Foulkes
- Departments of Human Genetics and Oncology, McGill University, Montreal
- Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital, Montreal
| | - P. Hamet
- Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal
- Service de médecine génique, chum, Montréal
| | - J. Simard
- Centre de recherche du chu de Québec-Université Laval, Québec
- Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec; and
| | - N. Wong
- Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital, Montreal
| | - Z. El Haffaf
- Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal
- Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec; and
| | - J. Chiquette
- Centre de recherche du chu de Québec-Université Laval, Québec
- Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec; and
- Centre des maladies du sein Deschênes–Fabia, chu de Québec–Université Laval, Québec
| | - M. Dorval
- Faculté de pharmacie, Université Laval, Québec
- Centre de recherche du chu de Québec-Université Laval, Québec
- Centre des maladies du sein Deschênes–Fabia, chu de Québec–Université Laval, Québec
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36
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Psychosocial issues of a population approach to high genetic risk identification: Behavioural, emotional and informed choice issues. Breast 2017; 37:148-153. [PMID: 29161653 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To allow women at high genetic risk of breast cancer to benefit from prevention or early prevention strategies, a screening programme is required to identify them. The present review considers the likelihood of key outcomes that would arise from such a programme, in relation to behavioural, emotional and informed choice outcomes. The likelihood of outcomes in each category is considered in relation to the limited direct evidence and relevant indirect evidence, given the dearth of studies that have directly studied the effects of communication of personal genetic risk of breast cancer. Overall, there is promise that such a programme would have several behavioural benefits, such as good uptake of increased screening in women at high risk but little effect on screening in women at low risk. The available evidence suggests that major adverse effects on emotional outcomes are unlikely. There is very limited evidence in this developing area on the extent to which decisions of women offered breast cancer risk estimation will be fully informed choices. Recommendations are made for increasing benefits and reducing harms of population-wide breast cancer risk estimation in light of current evidence. Key research gaps are identified.
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37
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Population screening for BRCA1/BRCA2 founder mutations in Ashkenazi Jews: proactive recruitment compared with self-referral. Genet Med 2016; 19:754-762. [DOI: 10.1038/gim.2016.182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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38
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Population screening for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations: lessons from qualitative analysis of the screening experience. Genet Med 2016; 19:628-634. [PMID: 27906198 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2016.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Population screening for BRCA1/BRCA2. mutations is being considered for Ashkenazi Jews (AJ) because 2.5% carry recurrent deleterious mutations and effective cancer prevention exists. This study aimed to provide a qualitative focus on perspectives of individuals, particularly carriers, who were tested through a screening trial. In this trial, the pretest process included only written information. METHODS Interviews were performed with 26 carriers and 10 noncarriers who participated in a BRCA population screening trial for AJ. RESULTS Attitudes toward screening were generally positive. The main motivator for testing was knowledge of BRCA status to enable cancer risk reduction. Knowledge of carrier status, although challenging, was thus viewed as health-empowering. The screening paradigm was sensed as increasing awareness and as overcoming access, referral, and familial barriers. Streamlining the pretest process was positively perceived as offering gradual, stepwise knowledge commensurate with test results. Participants were concerned that health systems provide the necessary conceptual and infrastructural framework and that individual autonomy be maintained. CONCLUSIONS BRCA screening in AJ is viewed favorably, even by carriers. Stepwise acquisition of knowledge based on test results was viewed as most relevant to the screening context. Screening program development should account for safeguarding autonomy and providing requisite post-test services.Genet Med advance online publication 01 December 2016.
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39
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Reproductive Decision-Making in Women with BRCA1/2 Mutations. J Genet Couns 2016; 26:594-603. [PMID: 27796678 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-0035-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Expanded genetic testing of BRCA mutations has led to identification of more reproductive-aged women who test positive for the mutation which might impact attitudes and decisions about relationships, childbearing and the use of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and prenatal diagnosis (PND). A cross-sectional survey was administered to 1081 self-reported BRCA carriers to investigate how knowledge of BRCA status influences these issues. The mean age at BRCA test disclosure was 44 years and 36 % reported a personal history of cancer. Of 163 women who were unpartnered, 21.5 % felt more pressure to get married. Of 284 women whose families were not complete, 41 % reported that carrier status impacted their decision to have biological children. Women with a history of cancer were more likely to report that knowledge of BRCA+ status impacted their decision to have a child (OR 1.8, 95 % CI 1-3.2). Fifty-nine percent thought PGD should be offered to mutation carriers and 55.5 % thought PND should be offered. In conclusion, knowledge of BRCA status impacts attitudes regarding relationships and childbearing, and most carriers believe that PGD and PND should be offered to other carriers. This study suggests that BRCA carriers desire and would benefit from reproductive counseling after test disclosure.
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40
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Winchester E, Hodgson SV. Psychosocial and Ethical Issues Relating to Genetic Testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 Breast Cancer Susceptibility Genes. WOMENS HEALTH 2016; 2:357-73. [DOI: 10.2217/17455057.2.3.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Two breast cancer susceptibility genes have been identified, BRCA1 and BRCA2, which when inherited in altered form, confer a substantially increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Genetic testing for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes is available to adult men and women at increased risk of carrying such a mutation based on their personal and/or family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer. Testing has profound implications not only for the individual being tested but for their entire family. It is therefore important that the psychosocial and ethical issues are explored through genetic counseling to ensure individuals make informed decisions about testing. Genetic testing may impact on psychological wellbeing, decisions regarding cancer risk management, childbearing and the wider family. Individuals who test positive for a mutation may face ethical dilemmas regarding childbearing and when and how to inform relatives of the genetic information. Female carriers will also face complex and challenging decisions concerning cancer risk management.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Winchester
- St. Georges Hospital Medical School, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK,
| | - Shirley V Hodgson
- St. Georges Hospital Medical School, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK,
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41
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Metcalfe KA, Eisen A, Lerner-Ellis J, Narod SA. Is it time to offer BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing to all Jewish women? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 22:e233-6. [PMID: 26300672 DOI: 10.3747/co.22.2527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
It was 2007 when Women’s College Hospital first began to test for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations among all Jewish women in Ontario [...]
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Metcalfe
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON; ; Familial Cancer Program, Odette Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON
| | - A Eisen
- Familial Breast Cancer Program, Women's College Research Institute, Toronto, ON; ; Cancer Care Ontario, Toronto, ON
| | - J Lerner-Ellis
- Advanced Molecular Diagnostics, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON
| | - S A Narod
- Familial Breast Cancer Program, Women's College Research Institute, Toronto, ON
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Harmsen MG, Hermens RPMG, Prins JB, Hoogerbrugge N, de Hullu JA. How medical choices influence quality of life of women carrying a BRCA mutation. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2015; 96:555-68. [PMID: 26299336 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2015.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes were discovered twenty years ago. Female BRCA mutation carriers have an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer at a relatively young age. Several choices have to be made with respect to cancer risk management, and consequences of these choices may affect quality of life. A review of the literature was performed to evaluate quality of life in unaffected BRCA mutation carriers and the influence of these medical choices. Overall, general quality of life appears not to be permanently affected in BRCA mutation carriers or by their choices. Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy and its subsequent premature menopause affect (menopause specific) quality of life most. Hormone replacement therapy does not fully alleviate climacteric symptoms and therefore, there is a strong need for alternative strategies to reduce ovarian cancer risk and/or for improvements in postoperative care. Future research should focus on these needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marline G Harmsen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Rosella P M G Hermens
- Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Judith B Prins
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicoline Hoogerbrugge
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne A de Hullu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Experiences of Women Who Underwent Predictive BRCA 1/2 Mutation Testing Before the Age of 30. J Genet Couns 2015; 25:90-100. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-015-9845-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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44
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Challenges in managing genetic cancer risk: a long-term qualitative study of unaffected women carrying BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. Genet Med 2014; 17:726-32. [PMID: 25503500 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2014.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Women carrying BRCA1/BRCA2 germ-line mutations have an increased risk of developing breast/ovarian cancer. To minimize this risk, international guidelines recommend lifelong surveillance and preventive measures. This study explores the challenges that unaffected women genetically predisposed to breast/ovarian cancer face in managing their risk over time and the psychosocial processes behind these challenges. METHODS Between 2011 and 2013, biographical qualitative interviews were conducted in Switzerland with 32 unaffected French- and Italian-speaking women carrying BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. Their mutation status had been known for at least 3 years (mean, 6 years). Data were analyzed through constant comparative analysis using software for qualitative analysis. RESULTS From the time these women received their positive genetic test results, they were encouraged to follow medical guidelines. Meanwhile, their adherence to these guidelines was constantly questioned by their social and medical environments. As a result of these contradictory pressures, BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers experienced a sense of disorientation about the most appropriate way of dealing with genetic risk. CONCLUSION Given the contradictory attitudes of health-care professionals in caring for unaffected BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers, there is an urgent need to educate physicians in dealing with genetically at-risk women and to promote a shared representation of this condition among them.Genet Med 17 9, 726-732.
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White VM, Young MA, Farrelly A, Meiser B, Jefford M, Williamson E, Ieropoli S, Duffy J, Winship I. Randomized controlled trial of a telephone-based peer-support program for women carrying a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation: impact on psychological distress. J Clin Oncol 2014; 32:4073-80. [PMID: 25403211 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2013.54.1607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the effectiveness of a telephone-based peer-delivered intervention in reducing distress among women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation. The intervention involved trained peer volunteers contacting women multiple times over a 4-month period to provide informational, emotional, and practical support. METHODS Three hundred thirty-seven participants completed the baseline questionnaire, and those reporting interest in talking to other mutation carriers were randomly assigned to either the usual care group (UCG; n = 102) or the intervention group (IG; n = 105). Participants and researchers were not blinded to group allocation. Two follow-up questionnaires were completed, one at the end of the intervention (4 months after random assignment, time 2) and one 2 months later (time 3). Outcomes included breast cancer distress (primary outcome), unmet information needs, cognitive appraisals about mutation testing, and feelings of isolation. RESULTS There was a greater decrease in breast cancer distress scores in the IG than UCG at time 2 (mean difference, -5.96; 95% CI, -9.80 to -2.12; P = .002) and time 3 (mean difference, -3.94; 95% CI, -7.70 to -0.17; P = .04). There was a greater reduction in unmet information needs in the IG than UCG (P < .01), with unmet needs being lower in the IG than UCG at time 2. There was a greater reduction in Cognitive Appraisals About Genetic Testing stress subscale scores in the IG than UCG (P = .02), with significantly lower scores among the IG than UCG at time 2 (P < .01). CONCLUSION The intervention is effective in reducing distress and unmet information needs for this group of women. Identifying strategies for prolonging intervention effects is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria M White
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Mary-Anne Young
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ashley Farrelly
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bettina Meiser
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Jefford
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Williamson
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sandra Ieropoli
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessica Duffy
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ingrid Winship
- Victoria M. White, Ashley Farrelly, and Michael Jefford, Cancer Council Victoria; Elizabeth Williamson and Ingrid Winship, The University of Melbourne; Ingrid Winship, Royal Melbourne Hospital; Elizabeth Williamson, Monash University, Melbourne; Mary-Anne Young and Michael Jefford, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne; Sandra Ieropoli, Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health Mental Health Program, Clayton, Victoria; Bettina Meiser, Prince of Wales Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney; and Jessica Duffy, Hereditary Cancer Clinic, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
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Chai X, Friebel TM, Singer CF, Evans DG, Lynch HT, Isaacs C, Garber JE, Neuhausen SL, Matloff E, Eeles R, Tung N, Weitzel JN, Couch FJ, Hulick PJ, Ganz PA, Daly MB, Olopade OI, Tomlinson G, Blum JL, Domchek SM, Chen J, Rebecck TR. Use of risk-reducing surgeries in a prospective cohort of 1,499 BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2014; 148:397-406. [PMID: 25311111 PMCID: PMC4224991 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-014-3134-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) confer very high risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Genetic testing and counseling can reduce risk and death from these cancers if appropriate preventive strategies are applied, including risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) or risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM). However, some women who might benefit from these interventions do not take full advantage of them. We evaluated RRSO and RRM use in a prospective cohort of 1,499 women with inherited BRCA1/2 mutations from 20 centers who enrolled in the study without prior cancer or RRSO or RRM and were followed forward for the occurrence of these events. We estimated the age-specific usage of RRSO/RRM in this cohort using Kaplan-Meier analyses. Use of RRSO was 45% for BRCA1 and 34% for BRCA2 by age 40, and 86% for BRCA1 and 71% for BRCA2 by age 50. RRM usage was estimated to be 46% by age 70 in both BRCA1 and BRCA2 carriers. BRCA1 mutation carriers underwent RRSO more frequently than BRCA2 mutation carriers overall, but the uptake of RRSO in BRCA2 was similar after mutation testing and in women born since 1960. RRM uptake was similar for both BRCA1 and BRCA2. Childbearing influenced the use of RRSO and RRM in both BRCA1 and BRCA2. Uptake of RRSO is high, but some women are still diagnosed with ovarian cancer before undergoing RRSO. This suggests that research is needed to understand the optimal timing of RRSO to maximize risk reduction and limit potential adverse consequences of RRSO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinglei Chai
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics
| | - Tara M. Friebel
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Basser Center for BRCA and Abramson Cancer Center
| | | | - D. Gareth Evans
- Department of Genomic Medicine, University of Manchester, MAHSC, St. Mary’s Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Claudine Isaacs
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
| | | | - Susan L. Neuhausen
- Department of Population Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA
| | | | - Rosalind Eeles
- The Institute of Cancer Research & Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London & Sutton
| | - Nadine Tung
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Peter J. Hulick
- NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL and The university of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Patricia A. Ganz
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | | | - Gail Tomlinson
- University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | | | - Susan M. Domchek
- Basser Center for BRCA and Abramson Cancer Center
- Department of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jinbo Chen
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics
| | - Timothy R. Rebecck
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Basser Center for BRCA and Abramson Cancer Center
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47
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Hirschberg AM, Chan-Smutko G, Pirl WF. Psychiatric implications of cancer genetic testing. Cancer 2014; 121:341-60. [PMID: 25234846 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.28879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
As genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes has transitioned from research to clinical settings, research regarding its accompanying psychosocial effects has grown. Men and women being tested for hereditary cancer syndromes may experience some psychological distress while going through the process of testing or after carrier status is identified. Psychological distress appears to decrease over the course of the first year and it is typically not clinically significant. Longer term studies show mixed results with some mutation carriers continuing to experience elevated distress. Baseline distress is the greatest risk factor for both immediate (weeks-12 months) and long-term psychological distress (18 mo-8 years post genetic testing). In addition to baseline psychological distress, other risk factors can be identified to help identify individuals who may need psychosocial interventions during the genetic testing process. The challenges of providing clinical care to the growing population of individuals identified to be at increased risk for heritable cancers present opportunities for research and new models of care.
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48
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Dagan E, Gershoni-Baruch R, Kurolap A, Goldberg Y, Fried G. “I Do Not Want My Baby to Suffer as I Did”; Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis for BRCA1/2 Mutations: A Case Report and Genetic Counseling Considerations. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2014; 18:461-6. [DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2013.0513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Efrat Dagan
- Department of Nursing, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ruth Gershoni-Baruch
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Alina Kurolap
- Institute of Human Genetics, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yael Goldberg
- Obstetrics and Gynecological Ultrasound Unit, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Georgeta Fried
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Oncology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
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49
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Slootsky V. Dealing with Uncertainty in Genetic Testing. Psychiatr Ann 2014. [DOI: 10.3928/00485713-20140707-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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50
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Although research has demonstrated the detrimental effects of excessive negative affect on treatment adherence and morbidity in chronic illness, rarely have researchers investigated the benefits of awareness of negative emotional experiences during treatment. PURPOSE In this investigation, we examined the association of negative affect differentiation (the ability to report negative emotional experiences as separate and distinct from each other,) to treatment adherence in adult patients with the congenital blood disorder thalassemia. METHOD Negative affect differentiation was assessed during a 12-16-week treatment-based diary and adherence was operationalized as attendance at routine screenings over 12 months. Participants were adult patients (n = 32; age M = 31.63, SD = 7.72; 72 % female) with transfusion-dependent thalassemia in treatment in a large metropolitan hospital in the Northeastern USA. RESULTS The results indicate that negative affect differentiation is significantly associated with greater adherence to treatment, even when controlling for disease burden and level of psychological distress. CONCLUSION Although preliminary, this investigation suggests that differentiated processing of negative emotional experiences during illness can lead to adaptive treatment-related behavior. As such, it may present a new avenue for research and intervention targeting the improvement of adherence during treatment for chronic illness.
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