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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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3
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Guan Y, Pathak S, Ballard D, Veluswamy JK, McCullough LE, McBride CM, Gornick MC. Testing a deliberative democracy method with citizens of African ancestry to weigh pros and cons of targeted screening for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk. Front Public Health 2022; 10:984926. [PMID: 36424974 PMCID: PMC9679525 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.984926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Democratic deliberation (DD), a strategy to foster co-learning among researchers and communities, could be applied to gain informed public input on health policies relating to genomic translation. Purpose We evaluated the quality of DD for gaining informed community perspectives regarding targeting communities of African Ancestry (AAn) for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) screening in Georgia. Methods We audiotaped a 2.5 day conference conducted via zoom in March 2021 to examine indicators of deliberation quality based on three principles: (1) inclusivity (diverse viewpoints based on participants' demographics, cancer history, and civic engagement), (2) consideration of factual information (balanced and unbiased expert testimonies, participant perceived helpfulness), and (3) deliberation (speaking opportunities, adoption of a societal perspective on the issue, reasoned justification of ideas, and participant satisfaction). Results We recruited 24 participants who reflected the diversity of views and life experiences of citizens of AAn living in Georgia. The expert testimony development process we undertook for creating balanced factual information was endorsed by experts' feedback. Deliberation process evaluation showed that while participation varied (average number of statements = 24, range: 3-62), all participants contributed. Participants were able to apply expert information and take a societal perspective to deliberate on the pros and cons of targeting individuals of AAn for HBOC screening in Georgia. Conclusions The rigorous process of public engagement using deliberative democracy approach can successfully engage a citizenry with diverse and well-informed views, do so in a relatively short time frame and yield perspectives based on high quality discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Guan
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sarita Pathak
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Denise Ballard
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Lauren E. McCullough
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Colleen M. McBride
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Michele C. Gornick
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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4
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Psychological Impact of TP53-Variant-Carrier Newborns and Counselling on Mothers: A Pediatric Surveillance Cohort. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122945. [PMID: 35740610 PMCID: PMC9221115 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Counselling and genetic testing (CGT) after neonatal screening may increase depression and anxiety (DA) levels during cancer surveillance. This study assessed the DA scores in mothers of newborns from Paraná state, Southern Brazil, carrying the TP53 p.R337H variant. To understand and adjust DA conditions during term of pregnancy, we initially detected sociodemographic covariates [marital status (MS), number of children (NC), and/or education level (EL): MS-NC-EL] on an independent group of pregnant women (not subjected to genetic testing). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess risk factors in pregnant (cross-sectional analysis) and unrelated mothers (at 2-month intervals, longitudinal study) of TP53 p.R337H-tested newborns (three sessions of HADS analysis) using Wilcoxon (Mann-Whitney) and Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric tests. Lower anxiety levels were observed in mothers of noncarriers (without MS-NC-EL = 6.91 ± 1.19; with MS-NC-EL = 6.82 ± 0.93) than in mothers of p.R337H carriers in the first session (without MS-NC-EL = 6.82 = 8.49 ± 0.6025, with MS-NC-EL = 6.82 = 9.21 ± 0.66). The anxiety levels significantly decreased 4 months after CGT (third session) in mothers of p.R337H carriers. We did not find a significant change in depression scores. Mothers with mental health instability requiring medications need periodical psychological support during and after CGT.
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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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6
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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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7
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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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8
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Owens DK, Davidson KW, Krist AH, Barry MJ, Cabana M, Caughey AB, Doubeni CA, Epling JW, Kubik M, Landefeld CS, Mangione CM, Pbert L, Silverstein M, Simon MA, Tseng CW, Wong JB. Risk Assessment, Genetic Counseling, and Genetic Testing for BRCA-Related Cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. JAMA 2019; 322:652-665. [PMID: 31429903 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2019.10987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 261] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Potentially harmful mutations of the breast cancer susceptibility 1 and 2 genes (BRCA1/2) are associated with increased risk for breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, and peritoneal cancer. For women in the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer after nonmelanoma skin cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death. In the general population, BRCA1/2 mutations occur in an estimated 1 in 300 to 500 women and account for 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases and 15% of ovarian cancer cases. OBJECTIVE To update the 2013 US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation on risk assessment, genetic counseling, and genetic testing for BRCA-related cancer. EVIDENCE REVIEW The USPSTF reviewed the evidence on risk assessment, genetic counseling, and genetic testing for potentially harmful BRCA1/2 mutations in asymptomatic women who have never been diagnosed with BRCA-related cancer, as well as those with a previous diagnosis of breast, ovarian, tubal, or peritoneal cancer who have completed treatment and are considered cancer free. In addition, the USPSTF reviewed interventions to reduce the risk for breast, ovarian, tubal, or peritoneal cancer in women with potentially harmful BRCA1/2 mutations, including intensive cancer screening, medications, and risk-reducing surgery. FINDINGS For women whose family or personal history is associated with an increased risk for harmful mutations in the BRCA1/2 genes, or who have an ancestry associated with BRCA1/2 gene mutations, there is adequate evidence that the benefits of risk assessment, genetic counseling, genetic testing, and interventions are moderate. For women whose personal or family history or ancestry is not associated with an increased risk for harmful mutations in the BRCA1/2 genes, there is adequate evidence that the benefits of risk assessment, genetic counseling, genetic testing, and interventions are small to none. Regardless of family or personal history, the USPSTF found adequate evidence that the overall harms of risk assessment, genetic counseling, genetic testing, and interventions are small to moderate. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION The USPSTF recommends that primary care clinicians assess women with a personal or family history of breast, ovarian, tubal, or peritoneal cancer or who have an ancestry associated with BRCA1/2 gene mutations with an appropriate brief familial risk assessment tool. Women with a positive result on the risk assessment tool should receive genetic counseling and, if indicated after counseling, genetic testing. (B recommendation) The USPSTF recommends against routine risk assessment, genetic counseling, or genetic testing for women whose personal or family history or ancestry is not associated with potentially harmful BRCA1/2 gene mutations. (D recommendation).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas K Owens
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
- Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Karina W Davidson
- Feinstein Institute for Medical Research at Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York
| | - Alex H Krist
- Fairfax Family Practice Residency, Fairfax, Virginia
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lori Pbert
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
| | | | | | - Chien-Wen Tseng
- University of Hawaii, Honolulu
- Pacific Health Research and Education Institute, Honolulu, Hawaii
| | - John B Wong
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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9
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Nelson HD, Pappas M, Cantor A, Haney E, Holmes R. Risk Assessment, Genetic Counseling, and Genetic Testing for BRCA-Related Cancer in Women: Updated Evidence Report and Systematic Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force. JAMA 2019; 322:666-685. [PMID: 31429902 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2019.8430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Pathogenic mutations in breast cancer susceptibility genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase risks for breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, and peritoneal cancer in women; interventions reduce risk in mutation carriers. OBJECTIVE To update the 2013 US Preventive Services Task Force review on benefits and harms of risk assessment, genetic counseling, and genetic testing for BRCA1/2-related cancer in women. DATA SOURCES Cochrane libraries; MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE (January 1, 2013, to March 6, 2019, for updates; January 1, 1994, to March 6, 2019, for new key questions and populations); reference lists. STUDY SELECTION Discriminatory accuracy studies, randomized clinical trials (RCTs), and observational studies of women without recently diagnosed BRCA1/2-related cancer. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data on study methods, setting, population characteristics, eligibility criteria, interventions, numbers enrolled and lost to follow-up, outcome ascertainment, and results were abstracted. Two reviewers independently assessed study quality. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Cancer incidence and mortality; discriminatory accuracy of risk assessment tools for BRCA1/2 mutations; benefits and harms of risk assessment, genetic counseling, genetic testing, and risk-reducing interventions. RESULTS For this review, 103 studies (110 articles; N = 92 712) were included. No studies evaluated the effectiveness of risk assessment, genetic counseling, and genetic testing in reducing incidence and mortality of BRCA1/2-related cancer. Fourteen studies (n = 43 813) of 8 risk assessment tools to guide referrals to genetic counseling demonstrated moderate to high accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.68-0.96). Twenty-eight studies (n = 8060) indicated that genetic counseling was associated with reduced breast cancer worry, anxiety, and depression; increased understanding of risk; and decreased intention for testing. Twenty studies (n = 4322) showed that breast cancer worry and anxiety were higher after testing for women with positive results and lower for others; understanding of risk was higher after testing. In 8 RCTs (n = 54 651), tamoxifen (relative risk [RR], 0.69 [95% CI, 0.59-0.84]; 4 trials), raloxifene (RR, 0.44 [95% CI, 0.24-0.80]; 2 trials), and aromatase inhibitors (RR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.26-0.70]; 2 trials) were associated with lower risks of invasive breast cancer compared with placebo; results were not specific to mutation carriers. Mastectomy was associated with 90% to 100% reduction in breast cancer incidence (6 studies; n = 2546) and 81% to 100% reduction in breast cancer mortality (1 study; n = 639); oophorectomy was associated with 69% to 100% reduction in ovarian cancer (2 studies; n = 2108); complications were common with mastectomy. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Among women without recently diagnosed BRCA1/2-related cancer, the benefits and harms of risk assessment, genetic counseling, and genetic testing to reduce cancer incidence and mortality have not been directly evaluated by current research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi D Nelson
- Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Miranda Pappas
- Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Amy Cantor
- Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Elizabeth Haney
- Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Rebecca Holmes
- Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
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10
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Courtney E, Chin XW, Yuen J, Li ST, Chen Y, Allen JC, Tan V, Lim GH, Ngeow J. Risk management adherence following genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes: a Singaporean experience. Fam Cancer 2019; 17:621-626. [PMID: 29368260 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-018-0071-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Assessing adherence behavior among mutation carriers to cancer risk management guidelines is important for both service improvement and cost-effectiveness analyses, but such real-world data is often lacking. The present study aims to report adherence rates among mutation carriers in a recently established cancer genetics program in Singapore. We conducted a medical chart review of mutation carriers who had attended for genetic counseling and gathered data regarding risk management behavior, including cancer surveillance and/or risk-reducing surgery, and cancers subsequently detected. Of the 52 subjects included in the study, the majority were affected prior to genetic testing (78.8%) and had family history suggestive of a germline mutation (88.5%). The overall adherence rate was 96.2%, including 37 (74.0%) fully-adherent and 13 (26.0%) partially-adherent subjects, with five cancers subsequently detected. Among the 28 BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, adherence to breast cancer risk management was also high (89.3%), although uptake of risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was not as common (60%). Whilst overall adherence in this cohort was high, BRCA1/2 mutation carriers may require targeted interventions to improve ovarian cancer risk management uptake. Additionally, further education among health professionals and the wider community regarding cancer genetics is needed to ensure the early identification of mutation carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza Courtney
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Xin Wei Chin
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Jeanette Yuen
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Shao-Tzu Li
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Yanni Chen
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - John Carson Allen
- Centre for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Veronique Tan
- Division of Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Geok Hoon Lim
- KK Breast Centre, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Joanne Ngeow
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore. .,Oncology Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
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11
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Bancroft EK, Saya S, Page EC, Myhill K, Thomas S, Pope J, Chamberlain A, Hart R, Glover W, Cook J, Rosario DJ, Helfand BT, Hutten Selkirk C, Davidson R, Longmuir M, Eccles DM, Gadea N, Brewer C, Barwell J, Salinas M, Greenhalgh L, Tischkowitz M, Henderson A, Evans DG, Buys SS, Eeles RA, Aaronson NK. Psychosocial impact of undergoing prostate cancer screening for men with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. BJU Int 2019; 123:284-292. [PMID: 29802810 PMCID: PMC6378691 DOI: 10.1111/bju.14412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report the baseline results of a longitudinal psychosocial study that forms part of the IMPACT study, a multi-national investigation of targeted prostate cancer (PCa) screening among men with a known pathogenic germline mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. PARTICPANTS AND METHODS Men enrolled in the IMPACT study were invited to complete a questionnaire at collaborating sites prior to each annual screening visit. The questionnaire included sociodemographic characteristics and the following measures: the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Impact of Event Scale (IES), 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36), Memorial Anxiety Scale for Prostate Cancer, Cancer Worry Scale-Revised, risk perception and knowledge. The results of the baseline questionnaire are presented. RESULTS A total of 432 men completed questionnaires: 98 and 160 had mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, respectively, and 174 were controls (familial mutation negative). Participants' perception of PCa risk was influenced by genetic status. Knowledge levels were high and unrelated to genetic status. Mean scores for the HADS and SF-36 were within reported general population norms and mean IES scores were within normal range. IES mean intrusion and avoidance scores were significantly higher in BRCA1/BRCA2 carriers than in controls and were higher in men with increased PCa risk perception. At the multivariate level, risk perception contributed more significantly to variance in IES scores than genetic status. CONCLUSION This is the first study to report the psychosocial profile of men with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations undergoing PCa screening. No clinically concerning levels of general or cancer-specific distress or poor quality of life were detected in the cohort as a whole. A small subset of participants reported higher levels of distress, suggesting the need for healthcare professionals offering PCa screening to identify these risk factors and offer additional information and support to men seeking PCa screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K. Bancroft
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Sibel Saya
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Elizabeth C. Page
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Kathryn Myhill
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Sarah Thomas
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Jennifer Pope
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Anthony Chamberlain
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Rachel Hart
- Clinical Genetics UnitBirmingham Women's HospitalBirminghamUK
| | - Wayne Glover
- Clinical Genetics UnitBirmingham Women's HospitalBirminghamUK
| | - Jackie Cook
- Sheffield Clinical Genetics ServiceSheffield Children's HospitalSheffieldUK
| | | | - Brian T. Helfand
- John and Carol Walter Center for Urological HealthNorthShore University HealthSystemEvanstonILUSA
| | - Christina Hutten Selkirk
- John and Carol Walter Center for Urological HealthNorthShore University HealthSystemEvanstonILUSA
| | - Rosemarie Davidson
- Clinical Genetics DepartmentQueen Elizabeth University HospitalGlasgowUK
| | - Mark Longmuir
- Clinical Genetics DepartmentQueen Elizabeth University HospitalGlasgowUK
| | - Diana M. Eccles
- Wessex Clinical Genetics ServicePrincess Anne HospitalSouthamptonUK
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonUniversity Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation TrustSouthamptonUK
| | - Neus Gadea
- High Risk and Cancer Prevention ClinicVall d'Hebron University HospitalBarcelonaSpain
| | - Carole Brewer
- Clinical Genetics DepartmentRoyal Devon and Exeter HospitalExeterUK
| | - Julian Barwell
- Department of GeneticsUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
- Clinical GeneticsUniversity Hospitals LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | - Monica Salinas
- Hereditary Cancer ProgrammeCatalan Institute of Oncology (ICO‐IDIBELL, CIBERONC)L'Hospitalet de LlobregatBarcelonaSpain
| | - Lynn Greenhalgh
- Cheshire and Mersey Clinical Genetics ServiceLiverpool Women's HospitalLiverpoolUK
| | - Marc Tischkowitz
- Academic Department of Medical GeneticsUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Alex Henderson
- Northern Genetics ServiceNewcastle upon Tyne HospitalsNewcastleUK
| | - David Gareth Evans
- Manchester Centre for Genomic MedicineCentral Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustManchesterUK
| | - Saundra S. Buys
- Huntsman Cancer InstituteUniversity of Utah HealthSalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | | | | | - Rosalind A. Eeles
- Oncogenetics TeamRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Oncogenetics TeamInstitute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - Neil K. Aaronson
- Division of Psychosocial Research and EpidemiologyNetherlands Cancer InstituteAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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12
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D'Andrea E, Lagerberg T, De Vito C, Pitini E, Marzuillo C, Massimi A, Vacchio MR, Grammatico P, Villari P. Patient experience and utility of genetic information: a cross-sectional study among patients tested for cancer susceptibility and thrombophilia. Eur J Hum Genet 2018; 26:518-526. [PMID: 29374276 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-017-0083-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated whether genetic tests with evidence of clinical and personal utility (i.e. APC and BRCA1/2 tests) are associated with higher satisfaction and a more positive perception of care experience than those with undefined utility (i.e. tests for thrombophilia). A cross-sectional survey was performed through telephone interviews to patients tested for deleterious variants in APC or BRCA1/2 genes, or for inherited thrombophilia (FV Leiden and/or FIIG20210A) during a 5-year period (2008-2012). Three aspects of patient experience were assessed: effective communication through pre- and post-test genetic counselling; collaboration between caregivers on the management of patient care; and impact of genetic testing on quality of life. Overall 237 patients had telephone interviews. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that patients tested for APC or BRCA1/2 variants were more likely to be satisfied with both pre- and post-test counselling than those tested for inherited thrombophilia (APC vs. thrombophilia, p = 0.039 and 0.005; BRCA1/2 vs. thrombophilia, p = 0.030 and <0.001). Patients tested for APC were more likely to report an improvement in quality of life than those for thrombophilia (OR = 2.97, 95%CI 1.14, 7.72; p = 0.025). A positive association was observed between patients who underwent BRCA1/2 testing, and self-perceived improvement in quality of life (OR = 1.41, 95%CI 0.74, 2.69; p = 0.294). Tests of undefined clinical and personal utility are associated with a lower degree of patient satisfaction with genetic counselling and no clear opinions on changes in quality of life compared with those with well-defined utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira D'Andrea
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy. .,Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
| | | | - Corrado De Vito
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Pitini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carolina Marzuillo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Azzurra Massimi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Vacchio
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Grammatico
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Department of Molecular Medicine, San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Villari
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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13
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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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14
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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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15
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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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16
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BRCA mutation genetic testing implications in the United States. Breast 2016; 31:224-232. [PMID: 27931006 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2016.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BRCA mutation carriers have a very high risk of breast and ovarian cancer by age 70, in the ranges 47%-66% and 40%-57%, respectively. Additionally, women with BRCA mutation-associated breast cancer also have an elevated risk of other or secondary malignancies. Fortunately, the breast and ovarian cancer outcome for BRCA1/2 mutation carriers is at least as good as for non-carriers with chemoprevention, prophylactic surgeries and appropriate use of therapies. Therefore, identification of those who might have a mutation is important so that genetic counseling, testing, screening and prevention strategies can be applied in a timely manner. This article reviews the impact of genetic testing in general, timing of genetic testing after diagnosis and prior knowledge of mutation status in BRCA carriers with newly diagnosed breast cancer. Additionally, risk-reducing surgeries including the prophylactic contralateral mastectomy, and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and the sensitivity of BRCA-defective breast cancer cell lines to differential chemotherapeutic agents will be discussed.
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17
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Larouche G, Chiquette J, Pelletier S, Simard J, Dorval M. Do women change their breast cancer mammogram screening behaviour after BRCA1/2 testing? Fam Cancer 2016; 16:35-40. [PMID: 27554086 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-016-9920-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the change in mammograms use by women after BRCA1/2 genetic testing. We compared the rate of bilateral mammograms after and prior to BRCA1/2 testing, according to test result. Information from the Quebec Health Insurance Board database was used to identify all registered mammograms delivered between May 1, 1998 and March 31, 2012 to a cohort of 396 unaffected French Canadian women tested for BRCA1/2 mutations. Mammograms incidence density ratios were calculated using the Cox proportional hazards model for repeated events. BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and women with an inconclusive result had more mammograms after, than prior to, genetic testing. Non-carriers did not receive more mammograms. The observed increase in mammography screening in BRCA1/2 carriers is consistent with the high risk of developing breast cancer in this group. The estimation of the cancer risk associated with an inconclusive result is based on familial cancer history, and women who received this result appear to have received follow-up as if at high risk. The fact that non-carriers did not change their use of mammograms after genetic testing may possibly reflect a 'defensive medicine' approach by some physicians or the women's preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneviève Larouche
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Jocelyne Chiquette
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre des Maladies du sein Deschênes-Fabia, CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvie Pelletier
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Jacques Simard
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Chaire de Recherche du Canada en Oncogénétique, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Michel Dorval
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada. .,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada. .,Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer de l'Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada. .,Centre des Maladies du sein Deschênes-Fabia, CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.
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18
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Oster E, Shoulson I, Dorsey ER. Optimal Expectations and Limited Medical Testing: Evidence from Huntington Disease: Corrigendum. THE AMERICAN ECONOMIC REVIEW 2016. [PMID: 29547253 DOI: 10.1257/aer.103.2.804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this document is to update and correct Figure 4 from "Optimal Expectations and Limited Medical Testing: Evidence from Huntington Disease" (Oster, Shoulson, and Dorsey 2013). This figure documents how perceptions about the risk of HD evolve with symptoms. It compares these perceptions with the "actual risk" of HD based on a Bayesian updating calculation described in the paper. The construction of Figure 4 is correctly described in the text of the paper and the data on perceptions are documented correctly. However, the construction of the "actual risk" series is not accurate. There are two central issues. First, there were data limitations at the time of publication which have since been relaxed and the better data now available changes the picture. Second, there was an error in the construction of Figure 4 which should have been recognized at the time. We detail the issues here and include the corrected figure. The original figure showed evidence of overoptimism at all levels of motor score. The corrected figure shows that for low symptom levels individuals are correct about their risk level, whereas those with more advanced symptoms are overly optimistic. Overall, the levels of overoptimism are lower than documented originally. We will briefly discuss the implications for the theory at the end of this document.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - E Ray Dorsey
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
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19
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Pelletier S, Wong N, El Haffaf Z, Foulkes WD, Chiquette J, Hamet P, Simard J, Dorval M. Clinical follow-up and breast and ovarian cancer screening of true BRCA1/2 noncarriers: a qualitative investigation. Genet Med 2015; 18:627-34. [PMID: 26540155 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2015.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Most women from BRCA1/2 mutation-positive families who did not inherit the familial mutation have breast and ovarian cancer risks similar to those of women of the same age in the general population. However, recent studies suggest that some of these noncarriers may exhibit screening practices that may be considered as excessive compared to general population screening guidelines. Reasons for such tendencies remain largely unknown. This study aims to better understand how the implications of a noncarrier status are explained to these women and how their own realization of this status affects their screening behaviors. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted with five focus groups (n = 28) in Quebec City and Montreal, Canada. RESULTS Thematic analysis of the discussions highlighted four major themes: (i) acquiring a noncarrier identity takes place progressively; (ii) noncarriers show a range of opinions about screening; (iii) noncarriers have mixed feelings about the follow-up by their physicians and gynecologists; and (iv) noncarriers need more information in a context where genetics progresses ever more rapidly. CONCLUSION Our results provide novel insights regarding the physician-patient interaction and the organizational aspects of the health-care system that may significantly impact the cancer screening practices of BRCA1/2 noncarriers.Genet Med 18 6, 627-634.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Pelletier
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nora Wong
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Zaki El Haffaf
- Service de Médecine Génique, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - William D Foulkes
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Lady Davis Institute of the Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Departments of Oncology, Human Genetics and Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jocelyne Chiquette
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Centre des Maladies du Sein Deschênes-Fabia, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pavel Hamet
- Centre de Recherche, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jacques Simard
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michel Dorval
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Centre des Maladies du Sein Deschênes-Fabia, CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.,Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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20
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Bancroft EK, Castro E, Bancroft GA, Ardern-Jones A, Moynihan C, Page E, Taylor N, Eeles RA, Rowley E, Cox K. The psychological impact of undergoing genetic-risk profiling in men with a family history of prostate cancer. Psychooncology 2015; 24:1492-9. [PMID: 25872100 DOI: 10.1002/pon.3814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ability to identify men at genetically high-risk of prostate cancer (PrCa) would enable screening to be targeted at those most in need. This study explored the psychological impact (in terms of general and PrCa-specific worry and risk perceptions) on men with a family history of PrCa, undergoing prostate screening and genetic-risk profiling, within a research study. METHODS A prospective exploratory approach was adopted, incorporating a sequential mixed-method design. Questionnaires were completed at two time points to measure the impact of undergoing screening and genetic-risk profiling. In-depth interviews were completed in a subgroup after all study procedures were completed and analysed using a framework approach. RESULTS Ninety-five men completed both questionnaires, and 26 were interviewed. No measurable psychological distress was detectable in the group as a whole. The interview findings fell into two categories: 'feeling at risk' and 'living with risk'. The feeling of being at risk of PrCa is a part of men's lives, shaped by assumptions and information gathered over many years. Men used this information to communicate about PrCa risk to their peers. Men overestimate their risk of PrCa and have an innate assumption that they will develop PrCa. The interviews revealed that men experienced acute anxiety when waiting for screening results. CONCLUSIONS Personalised genetic-risk assessments do not prevent men from overestimating their risk of PrCa. Screening anxiety is common, and timeframes for receiving results should be kept to a minimum. Methods of risk communication in men at risk of PrCa should be the subject of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K Bancroft
- Cancer Genetics Unit & Academic Urology Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Oncogenetics Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Elena Castro
- Oncogenetics Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Gordon A Bancroft
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Staffordshire University, Stafford, UK
| | - Audrey Ardern-Jones
- Cancer Genetics Unit & Academic Urology Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Clare Moynihan
- Oncogenetics Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Page
- Oncogenetics Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Natalie Taylor
- Cancer Genetics Unit & Academic Urology Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Oncogenetics Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Rosalind A Eeles
- Cancer Genetics Unit & Academic Urology Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Oncogenetics Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Emma Rowley
- Centre for Health Innovation, Leadership & Learning, Nottingham University Business School, Nottingham, UK
| | - Karen Cox
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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21
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Prognostic Factors for Distress After Genetic Testing for Hereditary Cancer. J Genet Couns 2015; 25:495-503. [PMID: 26475052 PMCID: PMC4868861 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-015-9894-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The psychological impact of an unfavorable genetic test result for counselees at risk for hereditary cancer seems to be limited: only 10-20 % of counselees have psychological problems after testing positive for a known familial mutation. The objective of this study was to find prognostic factors that can predict which counselees are most likely to develop psychological problems after presymptomatic genetic testing. Counselees with a 50 % risk of BRCA1/2 or Lynch syndrome completed questionnaires at three time-points: after receiving a written invitation for a genetic counseling intake (T1), 2-3 days after receiving their DNA test result (T2), and 4-6 weeks later (T3). The psychological impact of the genetic test result was examined shortly and 4-6 weeks after learning their test result. Subsequently, the influence of various potentially prognostic factors on psychological impact were examined in the whole group. Data from 165 counselees were analyzed. Counselees with an unfavorable outcome did not have more emotional distress, but showed significantly more cancer worries 4-6 weeks after learning their test result. Prognostic factors for cancer worries after genetic testing were pre-existing cancer worries, being single, a high risk perception of getting cancer, and an unfavorable test result. Emotional distress was best predicted by pre-existing cancer worries and pre-existing emotional distress. The psychological impact of an unfavorable genetic test result appears considerable if it is measured as "worries about cancer." Genetic counselors should provide additional guidance to counselees with many cancer worries, emotional distress, a high risk perception or a weak social network.
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22
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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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23
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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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24
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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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25
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Grubs RE, Parker LS, Hamilton R. Subtle Psychosocial Sequelae of Genetic Test Results. CURRENT GENETIC MEDICINE REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40142-014-0053-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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26
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Eccles SA, Aboagye EO, Ali S, Anderson AS, Armes J, Berditchevski F, Blaydes JP, Brennan K, Brown NJ, Bryant HE, Bundred NJ, Burchell JM, Campbell AM, Carroll JS, Clarke RB, Coles CE, Cook GJR, Cox A, Curtin NJ, Dekker LV, dos Santos Silva I, Duffy SW, Easton DF, Eccles DM, Edwards DR, Edwards J, Evans DG, Fenlon DF, Flanagan JM, Foster C, Gallagher WM, Garcia-Closas M, Gee JMW, Gescher AJ, Goh V, Groves AM, Harvey AJ, Harvie M, Hennessy BT, Hiscox S, Holen I, Howell SJ, Howell A, Hubbard G, Hulbert-Williams N, Hunter MS, Jasani B, Jones LJ, Key TJ, Kirwan CC, Kong A, Kunkler IH, Langdon SP, Leach MO, Mann DJ, Marshall JF, Martin LA, Martin SG, Macdougall JE, Miles DW, Miller WR, Morris JR, Moss SM, Mullan P, Natrajan R, O’Connor JPB, O’Connor R, Palmieri C, Pharoah PDP, Rakha EA, Reed E, Robinson SP, Sahai E, Saxton JM, Schmid P, Smalley MJ, Speirs V, Stein R, Stingl J, Streuli CH, Tutt ANJ, Velikova G, Walker RA, Watson CJ, Williams KJ, Young LS, Thompson AM. Critical research gaps and translational priorities for the successful prevention and treatment of breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res 2013; 15:R92. [PMID: 24286369 PMCID: PMC3907091 DOI: 10.1186/bcr3493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 275] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer remains a significant scientific, clinical and societal challenge. This gap analysis has reviewed and critically assessed enduring issues and new challenges emerging from recent research, and proposes strategies for translating solutions into practice. METHODS More than 100 internationally recognised specialist breast cancer scientists, clinicians and healthcare professionals collaborated to address nine thematic areas: genetics, epigenetics and epidemiology; molecular pathology and cell biology; hormonal influences and endocrine therapy; imaging, detection and screening; current/novel therapies and biomarkers; drug resistance; metastasis, angiogenesis, circulating tumour cells, cancer 'stem' cells; risk and prevention; living with and managing breast cancer and its treatment. The groups developed summary papers through an iterative process which, following further appraisal from experts and patients, were melded into this summary account. RESULTS The 10 major gaps identified were: (1) understanding the functions and contextual interactions of genetic and epigenetic changes in normal breast development and during malignant transformation; (2) how to implement sustainable lifestyle changes (diet, exercise and weight) and chemopreventive strategies; (3) the need for tailored screening approaches including clinically actionable tests; (4) enhancing knowledge of molecular drivers behind breast cancer subtypes, progression and metastasis; (5) understanding the molecular mechanisms of tumour heterogeneity, dormancy, de novo or acquired resistance and how to target key nodes in these dynamic processes; (6) developing validated markers for chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity; (7) understanding the optimal duration, sequencing and rational combinations of treatment for improved personalised therapy; (8) validating multimodality imaging biomarkers for minimally invasive diagnosis and monitoring of responses in primary and metastatic disease; (9) developing interventions and support to improve the survivorship experience; (10) a continuing need for clinical material for translational research derived from normal breast, blood, primary, relapsed, metastatic and drug-resistant cancers with expert bioinformatics support to maximise its utility. The proposed infrastructural enablers include enhanced resources to support clinically relevant in vitro and in vivo tumour models; improved access to appropriate, fully annotated clinical samples; extended biomarker discovery, validation and standardisation; and facilitated cross-discipline working. CONCLUSIONS With resources to conduct further high-quality targeted research focusing on the gaps identified, increased knowledge translating into improved clinical care should be achievable within five years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne A Eccles
- The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5MG, UK
| | - Eric O Aboagye
- Imperial College London, Exhibition Rd, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Simak Ali
- Imperial College London, Exhibition Rd, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | | | - Jo Armes
- Kings College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | | | - Jeremy P Blaydes
- University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Keith Brennan
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Nicola J Brown
- University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Helen E Bryant
- University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Nigel J Bundred
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | | | | | - Jason S Carroll
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute/University of Cambridge, Trinity Lane, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Robert B Clarke
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Charlotte E Coles
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Gary JR Cook
- Kings College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Angela Cox
- University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Nicola J Curtin
- Newcastle University, Claremont Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | | | | | - Stephen W Duffy
- Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Douglas F Easton
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute/University of Cambridge, Trinity Lane, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Diana M Eccles
- University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Dylan R Edwards
- University of East Anglia, Earlham Road, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Joanne Edwards
- University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - D Gareth Evans
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Deborah F Fenlon
- University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | | | - Claire Foster
- University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | | | | | - Julia M W Gee
- University of Cardiff, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Andy J Gescher
- University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 4RH, UK
| | - Vicky Goh
- Kings College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Ashley M Groves
- University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Michelle Harvie
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Bryan T Hennessy
- Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, 123, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | | | - Ingunn Holen
- University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Sacha J Howell
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Anthony Howell
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | | | | | | | - Bharat Jasani
- University of Cardiff, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Louise J Jones
- Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Timothy J Key
- University of Oxford, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Cliona C Kirwan
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Anthony Kong
- University of Oxford, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Ian H Kunkler
- University of Edinburgh, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK
| | - Simon P Langdon
- University of Edinburgh, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK
| | - Martin O Leach
- The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5MG, UK
| | - David J Mann
- Imperial College London, Exhibition Rd, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - John F Marshall
- Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Lesley Ann Martin
- The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5MG, UK
| | - Stewart G Martin
- University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Sue M Moss
- Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Paul Mullan
- Queen’s University Belfast, University Road, Belfast BT7 1NN, UK
| | - Rachel Natrajan
- The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5MG, UK
| | | | | | - Carlo Palmieri
- The University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 7ZX, UK
| | - Paul D P Pharoah
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute/University of Cambridge, Trinity Lane, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Emad A Rakha
- University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Elizabeth Reed
- Princess Alice Hospice, West End Lane, Esher KT10 8NA, UK
| | - Simon P Robinson
- The Institute of Cancer Research, 15 Cotswold Road, London SM2 5MG, UK
| | - Erik Sahai
- London Research Institute, 44 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3LY, UK
| | - John M Saxton
- University of East Anglia, Earlham Road, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Peter Schmid
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 9PX, UK
| | | | | | - Robert Stein
- University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - John Stingl
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute/University of Cambridge, Trinity Lane, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Christine J Watson
- Cancer Research UK, Cambridge Research Institute/University of Cambridge, Trinity Lane, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Kaye J Williams
- University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Leonie S Young
- Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, 123, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
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van Hulsteijn LT, Kaptein AA, Louisse A, Smit JWA, Corssmit EPM. Avoiding and nonexpressing: coping styles of patients with paragangliomas. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:3608-14. [PMID: 23969183 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-1340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Paraganglioma (PGL) patients and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) gene mutation carriers at risk for PGLs have a decreased quality of life (QoL). QoL may be affected by the strategy an individual uses when dealing with a stressful situation, ie, specific coping styles. Understanding the various approaches to coping may allow the development of targeted interventions to improve patient QoL. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to assess coping styles in PGL patients and SDH mutation carriers. DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study. SETTING The study was conducted at a tertiary referral center. PATIENTS AND METHODS Coping styles were assessed using the Utrecht Coping List. The results from the study cohort were compared with a control group and data derived from the literature. Potential differences in coping styles between the various SDH mutation carriers and PGL patients without an SDH mutation were explored. RESULTS Of the 174 patients who responded, 122 were SDHD, 25 SDHB, and 2 SDHC mutation carriers. An additional 25 patients lacked an SDH mutation. They recruited 100 peers as controls. Compared with the general population, the study cohort was more avoidant of problems (P < .001) and reported less expression of emotion (P < .01). Compared with patients with other conditions, they sought more social support (P < .001). There were no significant differences in coping styles between the various categories of mutation carriers or PGL patients lacking a mutation. CONCLUSIONS Coping styles of PGL patients and SDH mutation carriers differ from those of control and reference groups and include an avoidant coping style and a lack of emotional expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- L T van Hulsteijn
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Schneider KI, Schmidtke J. Patient compliance based on genetic medicine: a literature review. J Community Genet 2013; 5:31-48. [PMID: 23934761 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-013-0160-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
For this literature review, medical literature data bases were searched for studies on patient compliance after genetic risk assessment. The review focused on conditions where secondary or tertiary preventive options exist, namely cancer syndromes (BRCA-related cancer, HNPCC/colon cancer), hemochromatosis, thrombophilia, smoking cessation, and obesity. As a counterpart, patient compliance was assessed regarding medication adherence and medical advice in some of the most epidemiologically important conditions (including high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and coronary heart disease) after receiving medical advice based on nongenetic risk information or a combination of genetic and nongenetic risk information. In the majority of studies based on genetic risk assessments, patients were confronted with predictive rather than diagnostic genetic profiles. Most of the studies started from a knowledge base around 10 years ago when DNA testing was at an early stage, limited in scope and specificity, and costly. The major result is that overall compliance of patients after receiving a high-risk estimate from genetic testing for a given condition is high. However, significant behavior change does not take place just because the analyte is "genetic." Many more factors play a role in the complex process of behavioral tuning. Without adequate counseling and guidance, patients may interpret risk estimates of predictive genetic testing with an increase in fear and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Insa Schneider
- Institute of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
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29
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Milhabet I, Duprez C, Krzeminski A, Christophe V. Cancer risk comparative perception and overscreening behaviours of non-carriers from BRCA1/2 families. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2013; 22:540-8. [PMID: 23731020 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-free women who are from families with an inherited form of breast and/or ovarian cancer (BRCA1/2) are referred to as 'unaffected non-carriers' when the results of genetic testing for the inherited gene are negative. Recent studies have identified overscreening behaviours (undergoing more screening tests for cancer than are medically warranted) among these women, even though they do not require specific cancer monitoring. Overscreening behaviours deserve particular attention due to their potential psychological drivers and implications. The principal objective of this study was to examine the factors, including state anxiety, feelings of self-vulnerability, and the comparative perception of cancer risk that might explain these overscreening behaviours. Unaffected non-carriers women (n = 77) were asked about these different variables. Overscreening was associated with and determined by feelings of self-vulnerability and the comparative perception of cancer risk, but was not associated with anxiety. An increase in feelings of self-vulnerability or elevated comparative pessimism (CP) was related to the participants' decision to be frequently screened. Patients' perceptions of the risk should be considered in measures or information aimed at preventing inappropriate overscreening behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Milhabet
- Laboratoire d'Anthropologie et de Psychologie Cognitives et Sociales, Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice Cedex 4, France.
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Ormondroyd E, Oates S, Parker M, Blair E, Watkins H. Pre-symptomatic genetic testing for inherited cardiac conditions: a qualitative exploration of psychosocial and ethical implications. Eur J Hum Genet 2013; 22:88-93. [PMID: 23632793 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2013.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Revised: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited cardiac conditions (ICCs) can lead to sudden cardiac death at any age, yet are often asymptomatic and clinically undetected. Prophylactic interventions are available and cascade testing is recommended to identify family members at risk. When a disease-causing mutation has been identified in a family, pre-symptomatic genetic testing (PSGT) is available. This study explores perceptions of the cascade process, impact of PSGT and attitudes towards direct contact as an alternative to family-mediated dissemination for ICCs. In depth, interviews were conducted with 22 participants eligible for PSGT for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy or Long QT syndrome. Data were analysed using an inductive, thematic approach. Risk is perceived to be low pre-test in the absence of symptoms, and participants frequently test with the aim of ruling out risk to self and children. Testing of children is a complex decision; although older participants have concerns about possible adverse effects of genetic testing early in the life course, young participants are pragmatic about their result. The meaning of a positive genetic test result may be difficult to conceptualise in the absence of clinical evidence of disease, and this may deter further dissemination to at-risk family members. A majority of participants see advantages in direct contact from health professionals and support it in principle. Implications for practice include addressing risk perception pre-test, and presenting genetic test information as part of a risk stratification process rather than a binary outcome. Families may require more support or intervention in cascading genetic test information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Ormondroyd
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6 West Wing, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Stephanie Oates
- Genetic Health Service NZ-Northern Hub, Building 30 Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michael Parker
- The Ethox Centre, Department of Public Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Edward Blair
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Hugh Watkins
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6 West Wing, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Joly Y, Ngueng Feze I, Simard J. Genetic discrimination and life insurance: a systematic review of the evidence. BMC Med 2013; 11:25. [PMID: 23369270 PMCID: PMC3606414 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-11-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 01/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the late 1980s, genetic discrimination has remained one of the major concerns associated with genetic research and clinical genetics. Europe has adopted a plethora of laws and policies, both at the regional and national levels, to prevent insurers from having access to genetic information for underwriting. Legislators from the United States and the United Kingdom have also felt compelled to adopt protective measures specifically addressing genetics and insurance. But does the available evidence really confirm the popular apprehension about genetic discrimination and the subsequent genetic exceptionalism? METHODS This paper presents the results of a systematic, critical review of over 20 years of genetic discrimination studies in the context of life insurance. RESULTS The available data clearly document the existence of individual cases of genetic discrimination. The significance of this initial finding is, however, greatly diminished by four observations. First, the methodology used in most of the studies is not sufficiently robust to clearly establish either the prevalence or the impact of discriminatory practices. Second, the current body of evidence was mostly developed around a small number of 'classic' genetic conditions. Third, the heterogeneity and small scope of most of the studies prevents formal statistical analysis of the aggregate results. Fourth, the small number of reported genetic discrimination cases in some studies could indicate that these incidents took place due to occasional errors, rather than the voluntary or planned choice, of the insurers. CONCLUSION Important methodological limitations and inconsistencies among the studies considered make it extremely difficult, at the moment, to justify policy action taken on the basis of evidence alone. Nonetheless, other empirical and theoretical factors have emerged (for example, the prevalence and impact of the fear of genetic discrimination among patients and research participants, the (un)importance of genetic information for the commercial viability of the private life insurance industry, and the need to develop more equitable schemes of access to life insurance) that should be considered along with the available evidence of genetic discrimination for a more holistic view of the debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Joly
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, 740 Dr Penfield Avenue, Suite 5200, Montreal, H3A 1A5 Canada.
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Comparison of the screening practices of unaffected noncarriers under 40 and between 40 and 49 in BRCA1/2 families. J Genet Couns 2013; 22:469-81. [PMID: 23345056 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-012-9569-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to 1) compare the cancer screening practices of unaffected noncarrier women under 40 and those aged 40 to 49, following the age-based medical screening guidelines, and 2) consider the way the patients justified their practices of screening or over-screening. For this study, 131 unaffected noncarriers-77 women under age 40 and 54 between 40 and 49, all belonging to a BRCA1/2 family-responded to a questionnaire on breast or ovarian cancer screenings they had undergone since receiving their negative genetic test results, their motives for seeking these screenings, and their intentions to pursue these screenings in the future. Unaffected noncarriers under age 40 admitted practices that could be qualified as over-screening. Apart from mammogram and breast ultrasounds, which the women under 40 reported seeking less often, these women's screening practices were comparable to those of women between 40 and 49. Cancer prevention and a family history of cancer were the two most frequently cited justifications for pursuing these screenings. We suggest that health care professionals discuss with women under 50 the ineffectiveness of breast and ovarian cancer screenings so that they will adapt their practices to conform to medical guidelines and limit their exposure to the potentially negative impacts of early cancer screening.
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Watkins KE, Way CY, Gregory DM, LeDrew HM, Ludlow VC, Esplen MJ, Dowden JJ, Cox JE, Fitzgerald GWN, Parfrey PS. Development and preliminary testing of the psychosocial adjustment to hereditary diseases scale. BMC Psychol 2013; 1:7. [PMID: 25566359 PMCID: PMC4270033 DOI: 10.1186/2050-7283-1-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The presence of Lynch syndrome (LS) can bring a lifetime of uncertainty to an entire family as members adjust to living with a high lifetime cancer risk. The research base on how individuals and families adjust to genetic-linked diseases following predictive genetic testing has increased our understanding of short-term impacts but gaps continue to exist in knowledge of important factors that facilitate or impede long-term adjustment. The failure of existing scales to detect psychosocial adjustment challenges in this population has led researchers to question the adequate sensitivity of these instruments. Furthermore, we have limited insight into the role of the family in promoting adjustment. Methods The purpose of this study was to develop and initially validate the Psychosocial Adjustment to Hereditary Diseases (PAHD) scale. This scale consists of two subscales, the Burden of Knowing (BK) and Family Connectedness (FC). Items for the two subscales were generated from a qualitative data base and tested in a sample of 243 participants from families with LS. Results The Multitrait/Multi-Item Analysis Program-Revised (MAP-R) was used to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PAHD. The findings support the convergent and discriminant validity of the subscales. Construct validity was confirmed by factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha supported a strong internal consistency for BK (0.83) and FC (0.84). Conclusion Preliminary testing suggests that the PAHD is a psychometrically sound scale capable of assessing psychosocial adjustment. We conclude that the PAHD may be a valuable monitoring tool to identify individuals and families who may require therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy E Watkins
- Centre for Nursing Studies, Eastern Regional Integrated Health Authority, St. John's, NL Canada ; Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL Canada
| | - Christine Y Way
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL Canada ; School of Nursing, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL A1B 3V6 Canada
| | - Deborah M Gregory
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL Canada ; Eastern Regional Integrated Health Authority, St. John's, NL Canada
| | - Holly M LeDrew
- Western Regional School of Nursing, Western Regional Integrated Health Authority, Corner Brook, NL Canada
| | - Valerie C Ludlow
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL Canada
| | - Mary Jane Esplen
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Jeffrey J Dowden
- Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information, St. John's, NL Canada
| | - Janet E Cox
- Division of Surgery, Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital, St. Anthony, NL Canada
| | | | - Patrick S Parfrey
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL Canada
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Graves KD, Vegella P, Poggi EA, Peshkin BN, Tong A, Isaacs C, Finch C, Kelly S, Taylor KL, Luta G, Schwartz MD. Long-term psychosocial outcomes of BRCA1/BRCA2 testing: differences across affected status and risk-reducing surgery choice. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012; 21:445-55. [PMID: 22328347 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-11-0991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have documented the short-term impact of BRCA1/BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) testing; however, little research has examined the long-term impact of testing. We conducted the first long-term prospective study of psychosocial outcomes in a U.S. sample of women who had BRCA1/2 testing. METHODS Participants were 464 women who underwent genetic testing for BRCA1/2 mutations. Prior to testing, we measured sociodemographics, clinical variables, and cancer specific and general distress. At long-term follow-up (Median = 5.0 years; Range = 3.4-9.1 years), we assessed cancer-specific and genetic testing distress, perceived stress, and perceived cancer risk. We evaluated the impact of BRCA1/2 test result and risk-reducing surgery on long-term psychosocial outcomes. RESULTS Among participants who had been affected with breast or ovarian cancer, BRCA1/2 carriers reported higher genetic testing distress (β = 0.41, P < 0.0001), uncertainty (β = 0.18, P < 0.0001), and perceived stress (β = 0.17, P = 0.005) compared with women who received negative (i.e., uninformative) results. Among women unaffected with breast/ovarian cancer, BRCA1/2 carriers reported higher genetic testing distress (β = 0.39, P < 0.0001) and lower positive testing experiences (β = 0.25, P = 0.008) than women with negative results. Receipt of risk-reducing surgery was associated with lower perceived cancer risk (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS In this first prospective long-term study in a U.S. sample, we found modestly increased distress in BRCA1/2 carriers compared with women who received uninformative or negative test results. Despite this modest increase in distress, we found no evidence of clinically significant dysfunction. IMPACT Although a positive BRCA1/2 result remains salient among carriers years after testing, testing does not seem to impact long-term psychologic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi D Graves
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Control Program, Breast Cancer Program, Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, District of Columbia 20007, USA.
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Schwartz MD, Isaacs C, Graves KD, Poggi E, Peshkin BN, Gell C, Finch C, Kelly S, Taylor KL, Perley L. Long-term outcomes of BRCA1/BRCA2 testing: risk reduction and surveillance. Cancer 2012; 118:510-7. [PMID: 21717445 PMCID: PMC3286617 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.26294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2011] [Accepted: 04/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For BRCA1/BRCA2 gene testing to benefit public health, mutation carriers must initiate appropriate risk management strategies. There has been little research examining the long-term use and prospective predictors of the full range of risk management behaviors among women who have undergone BRCA1/2 testing. We evaluated long-term uptake and predictors of risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM), risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (RRBSO), chemoprevention, and cancer screening among women at a mean of 5.3 years after testing. METHODS The study participants comprised 465 women who underwent BRCA1/2 testing. Prior to genetic counseling, we measured family/personal cancer history, sociodemographics, perceived risk, cancer-specific distress, and general distress. We contacted patients at a mean of 5.3 years after testing to measure use of RRM, RRBSO, chemoprevention, and breast and ovarian cancer screening. RESULTS Among participants with intact breasts and/or ovaries at the time of testing, BRCA1/2 carriers were significantly more likely to obtain RRM (37%) and RRBSO (65%) compared with women who received uninformative (RRM, 6.8%; RRBSO, 13.3%) or negative (RRM, 0%; RRBSO, 1.9%) results. Among carriers, precounseling anxiety was associated with subsequent uptake of RRM. RRO was predicted by age. Carriers were also more likely have used breast cancer chemoprevention and have undergone magnetic resonance imaging screening. CONCLUSION This prospective evaluation of the uptake and predictors of long-term management outcomes provides a clearer picture of decision making in this population. At a mean of 5.3 years after testing, more than 80% of carriers had obtained RRM, RRBSO, or both, suggesting that BRCA1/2 testing is likely to have a favorable effect on breast and ovarian cancer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc D Schwartz
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Control Program, Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
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Abstract
Genetics has fascinated societies since ancient times, and references to traits or behaviors that appear to be shared or different among related individuals have permeated legends, literature, and popular culture. Biomedical advances from the past century, and particularly the discovery of the DNA double helix, the increasing numbers of links that were established between mutations and medical conditions or phenotypes, and technological advances that facilitated the sequencing of the human genome, catalyzed the development of genetic testing. Genetic tests were initially performed in health care facilities, interpreted by health care providers, and included the availability of counseling. Recent years have seen an increased availability of genetic tests that are offered by companies directly to consumers, a phenomenon that became known as direct-to-consumer genetic testing. Tests offered in this setting range from the ones that are also provided in health care establishments to tests known as ‘recreational genomics,’ and consumers directly receive the test results. In addition, testing in this context often does not involve the availability of counseling and, when this is provided, it frequently occurs on-line or over the phone. As a field situated at the interface between biotechnology, biomedical research, and social sciences, direct-to-consumer genetic testing opens multiple challenges that can be appropriately addressed only by developing a complex, inter-disciplinary framework.
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Graves KD, Gatammah R, Peshkin BN, Krieger A, Gell C, Valdimarsdottir HB, Schwartz MD. BRCA1/2 genetic testing uptake and psychosocial outcomes in men. Fam Cancer 2011; 10:213-23. [PMID: 21365268 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-011-9425-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have quantitatively evaluated the uptake and outcomes of BRCA1/2 genetic counseling and testing in men. We conducted a prospective longitudinal study to describe and compare uptake of and psychosocial outcomes following BRCA1/2 testing in a sample of men and women at high-risk for carrying a BRCA1/2 mutation. Men (n = 98) and women (n = 243) unaffected with cancer completed baseline assessments prior to genetic counseling and testing and then 6- and 12-months post-testing. Most men (n = 94; 95.9%) opted to have genetic testing, of whom 44 received positive BRCA1/2 genetic test results and 50 received true negative results. Among women, 93.4% had genetic testing, of whom 79 received positive results and 148 received negative results. In multivariate models, male BRCA1/2 carriers reported significantly higher genetic testing distress (6-months: Z = 4.48, P < 0.0001; 12-months: Z = 2.78, P < 0.01) than male non-carriers. After controlling for baseline levels of distress, no statistically significant differences emerged between male and female BRCA1/2 carriers in psychological distress at 12-months post-testing, although absolute differences were evident over time. Predictors of distress related to genetic testing among male carriers at 12-months included higher baseline cancer-specific distress (Z = 4.73, P < 0.0001) and being unmarried (Z = 2.18, P < 0.05). Similarly, baseline cancer-specific distress was independently associated with cancer-specific distress at 6- (Z = 3.66, P < 0.001) and 12-months (Z = 4.44, P < 0.0001) post-testing among male carriers. Clinically, our results suggest that pre-test assessment of distress and creation of educational materials specifically tailored to the needs and concerns of male carriers may be appropriate in this important but understudied high-risk group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi D Graves
- Cancer Control Program, Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
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Spiegel TN, Esplen MJ, Hill KA, Wong J, Causer PA, Warner E. Psychological impact of recall on women with BRCA mutations undergoing MRI surveillance. Breast 2011; 20:424-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2011.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2010] [Revised: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 04/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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Julian-Reynier C. Prédisposition génétique aux cancers du sein et de l’ovaire. Med Sci (Paris) 2011; 27:657-61. [DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2011276019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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Kwong A, Wong CHN, Shea C, Suen DTK, Choi CLY. Choice of management of southern Chinese BRCA mutation carriers. World J Surg 2011; 34:1416-26. [PMID: 20182723 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-010-0477-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in the BRCA genes confer greater risk of developing breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. Families carrying the mutation can have intensive surveillance and take preventative measures. This is the first report on the uptake of such interventions in Chinese mutation carriers residing in Asia. METHODS Breast and ovarian cancer index patients and family members referred for genetic counselling and testing who are found to carry the BRCA mutations were included in this multicenter study. RESULTS A total of 31 patients with breast and/or ovarian cancer were found to carry BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Forty-one tested family members also carried the mutations. Of the females, 85.7% of the index patients opted for breast surveillance and 23.8% for prophylactic mastectomy. Of the family members, 82.4% chose breast surveillance and 17.7% had prophylactic mastectomy. The majority of index patients and family members preferred ovarian surveillance (84 and 82.4%). Amongst the index patients, 32% decided for prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy; 17.6% of the family members who did not have history of ovarian cancer decided to have prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy. All male index patients agreed to breast and prostate surveillance, including breast clinical examination and PSA monitoring. For those male family members found to be BRCA mutation carriers, 56.3% agreed to have breast surveillance and 66.7% agreed to have prostate surveillance. No index patient or family member agreed to any form of chemoprevention. CONCLUSIONS Chinese BRCA mutation carriers have a higher uptake of cancer surveillance than prophylactic surgery and have a lack of interest in the use of chemoprevention drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava Kwong
- Division of Breast Surgery, The University of Hong Kong Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Julian-Reynier C, Mancini J, Mouret-Fourme E, Gauthier-Villars M, Bonadona V, Berthet P, Fricker JP, Caron O, Luporsi E, Noguès C. Cancer risk management strategies and perceptions of unaffected women 5 years after predictive genetic testing for BRCA1/2 mutations. Eur J Hum Genet 2011; 19:500-6. [PMID: 21267012 PMCID: PMC3083622 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2010.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In a French national cohort of unaffected females carriers/non-carriers of a BRCA1/2 mutation, long-term preventive strategies and breast/ovarian cancer risk perceptions were followed up to 5 years after test result disclosure, using self-administered questionnaires. Response rate was 74%. Carriers (N=101) were younger (average age±SD=37±10) than non-carriers (N=145; 42±12). There were four management strategies that comprised 88% of the decisions made by the unaffected carriers: 50% opted for breast surveillance alone, based on either magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other imaging (31%) or mammography alone (19%); 38% opted for either risk reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) and breast surveillance, based on MRI and other imaging (28%) or mammography alone (10%). The other three strategies were: risk reducing mastectomy (RRM) and RRSO (5%), RRM alone (2%) and neither RRM/RRSO nor surveillance (6%). The results obtained for various age groups are presented here. Non-carriers often opted for screening despite their low cancer risk. Result disclosure increased carriers' short-term high breast/ovarian cancer risk perceptions (P⩽0.02) and decreased non-carriers' short- and long-term perceptions (P<0.001). During follow-up, high breast cancer risk perceptions increased with time among those who had no RRM and decreased in the opposite case; high ovarian cancer risk perceptions increased further with time among those who had no RRSO and decreased in the opposite case; RRSO did not affect breast cancer risk perceptions. Informed decision-making involves letting women know whether opting for RRSO and breast MRI surveillance is as effective in terms of survival as RRM and RRSO.
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Breast and ovarian cancer screening of non-carriers from BRCA1/2 mutation-positive families: 2-year follow-up of cohorts from France and Quebec. Eur J Hum Genet 2011; 19:494-9. [PMID: 21248744 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2010.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We described and compared breast and ovarian screening practices in the 2-year period following test result disclosure in female non-carriers from BRCA1/2 mutation-positive families living in two countries, France and Quebec, Canada, which provide universal health care. Four hundred and two (France n=293; Quebec n=109) unaffected female non-carriers from BRCA-proven mutation families provided information about the uptake of mammography, clinical breast examination, breast self-examination, and ovarian ultrasounds using self-administered questionnaires. The frequency of screening practices between study cohorts were compared using logistic regression. Annual mammography was conducted in 23 and 43% of French and Quebecer women participants <50 years of age, respectively (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=2.72; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.08-6.81). In women ≥ 50 years of age, mammography was conducted in 49 and 65% of French and Quebecer participants (aOR=1.77; 95% CI, 0.07-4.51). Overall, 33% of French women and 39% of Quebecer women underwent at least one ovarian ultrasound during the 2-year period following BRCA1/2 test result with no significant difference between cohorts of women < 50 years of age. Among older women, Quebecers reported more frequently than French women that they had undergone ultrasound once (aOR=3.00; 95% CI, 1.02-8.83). The frequency of cancer screening practices for female non-carriers from BRCA1/2 mutation-positive families in both France and Quebec exceeded those recommended for similarly aged women in the general population. Our findings highlight the need for clearcut recommendations on the follow-up of women from BRCA1/2 families who are not themselves carriers of a BRCA1/2 mutation.
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Vodermaier A, Esplen MJ, Maheu C. Can self-esteem, mastery and perceived stigma predict long-term adjustment in women carrying a BRCA1/2-mutation? Evidence from a multi-center study. Fam Cancer 2010; 9:305-11. [PMID: 20140526 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-010-9325-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about protective and vulnerability factors of long-term adjustment with BRCA1/2 carrier status. Specifically, the role of personal resources and perceptions of stigmatization have not been studied in the context of adjustment with hereditary breast cancer. The present study, therefore, explored associations of personal resources and stigma with cancer-specific anxiety in female BRCA1/2-carriers within a cross-sectional multi-center study. Participants (n = 237) had received carrier notification between 4 months and 8 years before data collection and experienced a low level of cancer-related anxiety on average. Younger age was associated with both higher perceptions of stigma (P = .002) and cancer-specific anxiety (P = .034). Time since receiving test results, affected status, having undergone prophylactic mastectomy or prophylactic oophorectomy was not associated with demographic or psychological variables. Global self-esteem (P = .002) and mastery (P < .001) were associated with fewer intrusive and avoidant thoughts, whereas stigma was associated with more (P < .001). Time since test result receipt did not moderate relations of self-esteem, mastery or stigma and cancer-specific anxiety. Cancer-specific anxiety did not vary as a function of time since carrier notification. Hence cancer-specific distress may be explained by past and ongoing experiences of cancer in the family rather than by the time point of carrier notification. Psychological interventions may benefit from specifically addressing feelings of stigmatization, and promoting self-worth and personal control in order to affect cancer-specific anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vodermaier
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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Rogowski WH, Grosse SD, John J, Kääriäinen H, Kent A, Kristofferson U, Schmidtke J. Points to consider in assessing and appraising predictive genetic tests. J Community Genet 2010; 1:185-94. [PMID: 22460301 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-010-0028-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Accepted: 10/01/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of predictive genetic tests is expanding rapidly. Given limited health care budgets and few national coverage decisions specifically for genetic tests, evidence of benefits and harms is a key requirement in decision making; however, assessing the benefits and harms of genetic tests raises a number of challenging issues. Frequently, evidence of medical benefits and harms is limited due to practical and ethical limitations of conducting meaningful clinical trials. Also, clinical endpoints frequently do not capture the benefit appropriately because the main purpose of many genetic tests is personal utility of knowing the test results, and costs of the tests and counseling can be insufficient indicators of the total costs of care. This study provides an overview of points to consider for the assessment of benefits and harms from genetic tests in an ethically and economically reflected manner. We discuss whether genetic tests are sufficiently exceptional to warrant exceptional methods for assessment and appraisal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolf H Rogowski
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany,
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Whitaker HC, Kote-Jarai Z, Ross-Adams H, Warren AY, Burge J, George A, Bancroft E, Jhavar S, Leongamornlert D, Tymrakiewicz M, Saunders E, Page E, Mitra A, Mitchell G, Lindeman GJ, Evans DG, Blanco I, Mercer C, Rubinstein WS, Clowes V, Douglas F, Hodgson S, Walker L, Donaldson A, Izatt L, Dorkins H, Male A, Tucker K, Stapleton A, Lam J, Kirk J, Lilja H, Easton D, Cooper C, Eeles R, Neal DE. The rs10993994 risk allele for prostate cancer results in clinically relevant changes in microseminoprotein-beta expression in tissue and urine. PLoS One 2010; 5:e13363. [PMID: 20967219 PMCID: PMC2954177 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0013363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Microseminoprotein-beta (MSMB) regulates apoptosis and using genome-wide association studies the rs10993994 single nucleotide polymorphism in the MSMB promoter has been linked to an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. The promoter location of the risk allele, and its ability to reduce promoter activity, suggested that the rs10993994 risk allele could result in lowered MSMB in benign tissue leading to increased prostate cancer risk. Methodology/Principal Findings MSMB expression in benign and malignant prostate tissue was examined using immunohistochemistry and compared with the rs10993994 genotype. Urinary MSMB concentrations were determined by ELISA and correlated with urinary PSA, the presence or absence of cancer, rs10993994 genotype and age of onset. MSMB levels in prostate tissue and urine were greatly reduced with tumourigenesis. Urinary MSMB was better than urinary PSA at differentiating men with prostate cancer at all Gleason grades. The high risk allele was associated with heterogeneity of MSMB staining and loss of MSMB in both tissue and urine in benign prostate. Conclusions These data show that some high risk alleles discovered using genome-wide association studies produce phenotypic effects with potential clinical utility. We provide the first link between a low penetrance polymorphism for prostate cancer and a potential test in human tissue and bodily fluids. There is potential to develop tissue and urinary MSMB for a biomarker of prostate cancer risk, diagnosis and disease monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley C Whitaker
- Uro-Oncology Research Group, CRUK Cambridge Research Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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Female BRCA mutation carriers with a preference for prophylactic mastectomy are more likely to participate an educational-support group and to proceed with the preferred intervention within 2 years. Fam Cancer 2010; 9:213-20. [PMID: 19967456 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-009-9311-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Women with a BRCA mutation face a complex choice between breast cancer surveillance and prophylactic mastectomy. We determined risk management preferences shortly after genetic test disclosure and mastectomy status after a median observation period of 2 years. The effect of an educational-support group on the realisation of risk management preference was explored. We included 163 newly disclosed BRCA mutation carriers with no history of cancer, whose breast cancer risk management preferences were recorded. All carriers were offered the opportunity to participate an educational-support group. Mastectomy status was checked after a median observation period of 2 years. Of the total sample, 27% had an initial preference for mastectomy and 48% attended an educational-support group. After a median observation period of 2 years, 30% of the total sample had undergone prophylactic mastectomy. Of the women with a preference for surveillance, 90% of educational-support group attendees and 88% of the other mutation carriers, were still under surveillance. The number of women with a preference for mastectomy who actually had a mastectomy performed, was significantly higher in the group that attended an educational-support group as compared to those who did not, 89% and 63% respectively (OR 4.8, P = 0.04). Strong predictors for prophylactic mastectomy within 2 years were younger age and prior preference for mastectomy (R (2) = 0.57). Nearly all BRCA mutation carriers proceed with their initial choice for surveillance or prophylactic mastectomy. The study provides presumptive evidence that educational-support group participants decide to undergo prophylactic mastectomy earlier than non-attendees.
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Kwon JS, Gutierrez-Barrera AM, Young D, Sun CC, Daniels MS, Lu KH, Arun B. Expanding the criteria for BRCA mutation testing in breast cancer survivors. J Clin Oncol 2010; 28:4214-20. [PMID: 20733129 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2010.28.0719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Every year approximately 25% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are younger than 50 years of age, and almost 10% of them have a BRCA mutation. Not all potential carriers are identified by existing criteria for BRCA testing. We estimated the costs and benefits of different BRCA testing criteria for women with breast cancer younger than 50 years. METHODS We developed a Markov Monte Carlo simulation to compare six criteria for BRCA mutation testing: (1) no testing (reference); (2) medullary breast cancer in patients younger than 50 years; (3) any breast cancer in patients younger than 40 years; (4) triple negative (TN) breast cancer in patients younger than 40 years; (5) TN breast cancer in patients younger than 50 years; (6) any breast cancer in patients younger than 50 years. Net health benefits were life expectancy and quality-adjusted life expectancy, and primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). The model estimated the number of new breast and ovarian cancer cases. RESULTS BRCA mutation testing for all women with breast cancer who were younger than 50 years could prevent the highest number of breast and ovarian cancer cases, but with unfavorable ICERs. Testing women with TN breast cancers who were younger than 50 years was cost-effective with an ICER of $8,027 per year of life gained ($9,084 per quality-adjusted life-year), and could reduce subsequent breast and ovarian cancer risks by 23% and 41%, respectively, compared with the reference strategy. CONCLUSION Testing women with TN breast cancers who were younger than 50 years for BRCA mutations is a cost-effective strategy and should be adopted into current guidelines for genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice S Kwon
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of British Columbia and British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Brain K, Parsons E, Bennett P, Cannings-John R, Hood K. The evolution of worry after breast cancer risk assessment: 6-year follow-up of the TRACE study cohort. Psychooncology 2010; 20:984-91. [PMID: 20677331 DOI: 10.1002/pon.1807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2009] [Revised: 04/29/2010] [Accepted: 06/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is little evidence regarding the long-term psychological implications of breast cancer risk assessment for women at moderate genetic risk. A follow-up study of a trial cohort was conducted to evaluate psychological outcomes and their predictors at 6-year follow-up. A further aim was to examine threshold scores for high cancer worry. METHODS Questionnaires were sent to 384 women assessed as moderate risk during a UK trial of genetic assessment (TRACE). Measures included cancer worry, perceived risk, health behaviours, general anxiety, psychological morbidity, optimism, and background variables assessed during TRACE and at 6-year follow-up. RESULTS Reductions from baseline cancer worry and breast self-examination (BrSE) frequency were maintained 6 years after risk assessment, with relatively consistent levels over short- and long-term follow-up. Provision of risk information led to short-term reductions in perceived risk. During the 6-year period, 43% of women reported having made lifestyle changes and 27% had requested a mammogram. Baseline and post-risk cancer worry were the only significant predictors of long-term cancer worry. Greater worry at baseline predicted more frequent BrSE and higher perceived risk, but not lifestyle change or mammogram requests, at 6 years. Eighteen percent of women reported cancer worry above a threshold of 12.5 at long-term follow-up, compared with 30% at baseline. CONCLUSIONS Overall reductions in cancer worry following moderate risk assessment were maintained in the long term. However, women at risk of sustained high cancer worry should be identified at an early stage in the risk assessment process for more intensive psycho-educational intervention. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Brain
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Clinical Epidemiology Interdisciplinary Research Group, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK.
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Bennett P, Parsons E, Brain K, Hood K. Long-term cohort study of women at intermediate risk of familial breast cancer: experiences of living at risk. Psychooncology 2010; 19:390-8. [PMID: 19514016 DOI: 10.1002/pon.1588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To identify how women adjusted to living at intermediate risk of breast cancer six years following risk assessment, and what factors contributed to health service usage. METHOD Two studies are reported. Both report data from a cohort of women found at intermediate risk of breast cancer six years previously. In the first, 30 women with a range of Cancer Worry Scale (Lerman et al. Health Psychol 1991;10:259-267) scores were interviewed about how they lived with their risk of cancer and their use of health resources. The generalisability of these findings was tested in a sample of 387 women from the same cohort using psychometrically appropriate measures. FINDINGS In study 1, women scoring above the median baseline BCWS scale score were most likely to perceive their family history as a burden, exaggerate their susceptibility to breast cancer, not be reassured by genetic counselling, be focussed on the need for mammographic screening, and have a low reliance on breast self-examination. Key findings of the second study were that over a quarter of the cohort were experiencing at least moderate levels of intrusive worries. Worries were associated with perceptions of high personal vulnerability to and severity of cancer and breast cancer being highly salient. Women aged over 50 years with high levels of worry-related distress were most likely to request a mammogram. CONCLUSION The high levels of distress in this cohort reinforce the need to provide appropriate interventions for vulnerable women following risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Bennett
- Health and Social Care Research Centre, University of Cardiff, Cardiff, UK.
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Bancroft EK. Genetic testing for cancer predisposition and implications for nursing practice: narrative review. J Adv Nurs 2010; 66:710-37. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2010.05286.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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