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Abad PJB, Shah LL, Daack-Hirsch S. Family Information Management in the Context of Inherited Conditions: An Integrative Review. JOURNAL OF FAMILY NURSING 2024; 30:232-254. [PMID: 39194163 DOI: 10.1177/10748407241272196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
This review aimed to develop a framework to understand the process of information management in families with inherited conditions. Electronic databases were searched for relevant peer-reviewed articles. Articles were included if they were original research on families affected by any confirmed inherited condition, described how a family accesses, interprets, conveys, and/or uses information about the disease, included the recruitment of more than one family member, and used family as the unit of analysis. Data were analyzed through directed content analysis. Thirty-four articles from 27 studies were analyzed. We propose a framework for family information management consisting of the following domains: contextual influences, family information management behaviors, and family information management outcomes. This proposed framework expands the understanding of how families manage their genetic information in making health care decisions for their affected and at-risk relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter James B Abad
- The University of Iowa, USA
- University of the Philippines Manila, Philippines
| | - Lisa L Shah
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, USA
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2
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Wells I, Zemedikun DT, Simons G, Stack RJ, Mallen CD, Raza K, Falahee M. Predictors of the likelihood that patients with rheumatoid arthritis will communicate information about rheumatoid arthritis risk to relatives: A quantitative assessment. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 112:107713. [PMID: 37003160 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
First-degree relatives (FDRs) of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are increasingly recruited to prediction and prevention studies. Access to FDRs is usually via their proband with RA. Quantitative data on predictors of family risk communication are lacking. RA patients completed a questionnaire assessing likelihood of communicating RA risk information to their FDRs, demographic variables, disease impact, illness perceptions, autonomy preferences, interest in FDRs taking a predictive test for RA, dispositional openness, family functioning, and attitudes towards predictive testing. Ordinal regression examined associations between patients' characteristics and their median likelihood of communicating RA risk to FDRs. Questionnaires were completed by 482 patients. The majority (75.1%) were likely/extremely likely to communicate RA risk information to FDRs, especially their children. Decision-making preferences, interest in FDRs taking a predictive test, and beliefs that risk knowledge would increase people's empowerment over their health increased patients' odds of being likely to communicate RA risk information to FDRs. Beliefs that risk information would cause stress to their relatives decreased odds that patients would be likely to communicate RA risk. These findings will inform the development of resources to support family communication about RA risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Wells
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dawit T Zemedikun
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, David Weatherall Building, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom; NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom; Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom; MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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3
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Poulton A, Curnow L, Eratne D, Sexton A. Family Communication about Diagnostic Genetic Testing for Younger-Onset Dementia. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13040621. [PMID: 37109007 PMCID: PMC10144767 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13040621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Younger-onset dementia (YOD) refers to onset before 65 years of age and may be associated with a genetic cause. Family communication surrounding any genetic risk is complex, and this process may be further complicated in a YOD context due to its effects on cognition, behaviour, and associated psychosocial consequences. This study aimed to investigate how individuals experience family communication about potential genetic risk and testing for YOD. Thematic analysis was performed on verbatim transcripts of nine semi-structured interviews undertaken with family members who attended a neurogenetics clinic due to a relative diagnosed with YOD. The interviews explored the participants’ experiences of learning that YOD might be inherited and the ensuing family communication about genetic testing. Four key themes emerged: (1) a clinical diagnostic odyssey was common and could be a motivator for genomic testing, (2) pre-existing family tension and/or disconnection was a common barrier, (3) family members’ autonomy was considered, and (4) avoidant coping strategies influenced communication. Communication regarding potential YOD genetic risk is a complicated process and may be influenced by pre-existing family dynamics, individual coping mechanisms, and a desire to promote autonomy in relatives. To promote effective risk communication, genetic counsellors should pre-emptively address family tensions that may be exacerbated in the context of genetic testing for YOD, with awareness that family strain during a preceding period of diagnostic odyssey is common. Genetic counsellors can offer psychosocial support to facilitate coping with this tension in an adaptive way. The findings also indicated the importance of extending genetic counselling support to relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Poulton
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3051, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3051, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Monash IVF Group Ltd., Cremorne, VIC 3121, Australia
| | - Lisette Curnow
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Dhamidhu Eratne
- Neuropsychiatry, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3051, Australia
- Melbourne Neuropsychiarty Centre, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3051, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3051, Australia
- Walter and Elize Hall Institue of Medical Research, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3051, Australia
| | - Adrienne Sexton
- Genomic Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
- Department of Medicine-Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Discipline of Genetic Counselling, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
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4
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Leader AE, Mercado J, Klein A, Hyatt C, Gross L, Brandt R, Giri VN. Insight into how patients with prostate cancer interpret and communicate genetic test results: implications for families. J Community Genet 2022; 13:547-556. [PMID: 35869324 PMCID: PMC9681950 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-022-00603-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with prostate cancer (PCA) are increasingly being offered germline genetic testing for precision therapy, precision management, and clinical trial options. Genetic test results also have implications for family members. How men with PCA perceive their genetic test results and decide whether to share recommendations with family members is not well studied. We interviewed 12 patients who had PCA and genetic testing and received a positive variant/likely positive variant (PV/LPV) (n = 7) or a variant of unknown significance (VUS) (n = 5) result. The semi-structured interview had five sections: genetic testing experience, impact, and interpretation of the test result, deciding whether to communicate test results to family members, impact of communication on family members, and suggestions for genetic counselors and other PCA patients. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was completed using NVivo software v10. Receipt of PV/LPV or VUS genetic test results was not as emotional as receiving the diagnosis of PCA itself. Seven of the 12 participants chose to share their test results with all relevant family members, 4 chose to share with select family members, and one chose to not disclose to any family members. The majority of family members who were aware of participants' genetic results have not undergone cascade genetic testing or sought cancer screening. Participants with PCA and positive or VUS genetic test results typically share their results with at least immediate family members, but some communication barriers exist. Understanding the best way to provide actionable and relevant information about genetic testing to family members remains a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Leader
- Division of Population Science, Department of Medical Oncology and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, 834 Chestnut Street, Suite 314, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
| | - Joanna Mercado
- Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling Program, College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Austin Klein
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Colette Hyatt
- Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Laura Gross
- Division of Population Science, Department of Medical Oncology and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, 834 Chestnut Street, Suite 314, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
- Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Rachael Brandt
- Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling Program, College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Veda N Giri
- Division of Population Science, Department of Medical Oncology and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, 834 Chestnut Street, Suite 314, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
- Clinical Cancer Genetics Program, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
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5
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Patient-reported anticipated barriers and benefits to sharing cancer genetic risk information with family members. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 30:53-61. [PMID: 33867528 PMCID: PMC8738729 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00890-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
While prior studies have largely focused on family communication of diagnostic single-gene test results or specific types of cancer testing results, far less work has investigated family communication of cancer-related genetic results that include multi-gene panels, a broad array of cancer types/stages, and participants without family history of cancer. The study we report here examined individuals' anticipated barriers and benefits to sharing genetic information with family members. An 80+ gene panel was performed on participants recruited from Mayo Clinic, diagnosed with different cancer types, who did not have a family history suggestive of an inherited risk. Participants completed a 49-item survey before receiving genetic test results. Family variant testing was provided to family members at no cost, allowing factors influencing intent to share to be examined in the absence of financial burdens. In all, 1721 of 2984 individuals who received genetic testing completed the survey (57.7% completion rate). Participants' intent to share with parents, siblings, and children was inversely related to the number of anticipated barriers to sharing and directly related to the number of anticipated benefits to sharing. Of those participants who did not intend to share with parents, siblings, and adult children, 64.8%, 30.3%, and 67.6% reported that there were no barriers, while 17.1%, 24.5%, and 40.2.% reported there were no benefits. Findings indicate that barriers to sharing genetic information with family members vary across family member types, and an inability to identify at least one benefit of sharing with family members is a predictor of intent not to share.
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Dwyer AA, Hesse-Biber S, Shea H, Zeng Z, Yi S. Coping response and family communication of cancer risk in men harboring a BRCA mutation: A mixed methods study. Psychooncology 2021; 31:486-495. [PMID: 34582073 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Providing genetic counseling and genetic testing to at-risk blood relatives (cascade screening) is important for improving BRCA cancer outcomes. Intra-familial communication of risk is critical for cascade screening efforts yet relatively little is known about men's role in communicating BRCA risk. We sought to examine men's coping response to their BRCA status and intra-familial communication of risk to inform the development of tailored interventions that could promote cascade screening. METHODS We employed a sequential mixed-methods design. First, we measured coping response (quantitative) using the Multidimensional Impact of Cancer Risk Assessment (MICRA). MICRA scores were compared between BRCA+ men, BRCA- men and BRCA+ women. Subsequently, we used template analysis to analyze qualitative interviews exploring coping and intra-familial communication of risk. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) served as a guiding framework for identifying intervention targets. RESULTS BRCA+ men (n = 36) had significantly higher levels of distress (p < 0.001), uncertainty (p < 0.001) and negative experiences (p < 0.05) compared to BRCA- male counterparts (n = 23). BRCA+ men had significantly lower distress (p < 0.001) and uncertainty (p < 0.001) than BRCA+ women (n = 406). Qualitative analysis of in-depth interviews with BRCA+ men (n = 35) identified promoters and barriers to active coping response and intra-familial communication of risk. Mapping results onto the TPB identified targets for tailoring person-centered approaches for men addressing beliefs/attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. CONCLUSIONS Men and women appear to have different coping responses to learning their BRCA status. Developing tailored (sex-based), theory informed interventions may help promote intra-familial communication of BRCA risk and support cascade screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A Dwyer
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA.,Munn Center for Nursing Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Hannah Shea
- Department of Sociology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ziwei Zeng
- Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shiya Yi
- Department of Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics and Assessment, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
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O'Neill SC, Hamilton JG, Conley CC, Peshkin BN, Sacca R, McDonnell GA, Isaacs C, Robson ME, Tercyak KP. Improving our model of cascade testing for hereditary cancer risk by leveraging patient peer support: a concept report. Hered Cancer Clin Pract 2021; 19:40. [PMID: 34565430 PMCID: PMC8474818 DOI: 10.1186/s13053-021-00198-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Consensus and evidence suggest that cascade testing is critical to achieve the promise of cancer genetic testing. However, barriers to cascade testing include effective family communication of genetic risk information and family members' ability to cope with genetic risk. These barriers are further complicated by the developmental needs of unaffected family members during critical windows for family communication and adaptation. Peer support could address these barriers. We provide two illustrative examples of ongoing BRCA1/2-related clinical trials that apply a peer support model to improve family communication and functioning. Peer support can augment currently available genetic services to facilitate adjustment to and effective use of cancer genetic risk information. Importantly, this scalable approach can address the presence of cancer risk within families across multiple developmental stages. This applies a family-centered perspective that accommodates all potentially at-risk relatives. This peer support model can be further applied to emerging topics in clinical genetics to expand reach and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne C O'Neill
- Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, D.C, USA.
| | | | - Claire C Conley
- Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Beth N Peshkin
- Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Rosalba Sacca
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | | | - Claudine Isaacs
- Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Mark E Robson
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Kenneth P Tercyak
- Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, D.C, USA
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8
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Redlinger-Grosse K, MacFarlane IM, Cragun D, Zierhut H. A Delphi study to prioritize genetic counseling outcomes: What matters most. J Genet Couns 2020; 30:676-692. [PMID: 33179357 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Research on genetic counseling outcomes has examined a range of metrics many that differ in quality and extent of psychometric assessment and in some cases fail to encompass potential benefits of genetic counseling for patients. Although a variety of possible outcomes have been explored, selecting the most important or relevant outcomes and identifying well-validated measures remain challenging. An online, modified Delphi method was used to prioritize genetic counseling outcomes from the viewpoint of individuals from four stakeholder groups - clinical genetic counselors, outcome researchers, genetic counseling training directors, and genetic counseling consumers/advocates. A survey of 181 genetic counseling outcomes were rated based on perceived importance and then sorted and categorized using the Framework for Outcomes of Clinical Communication Services in Genetic Counseling (FOCUS-GC) framework. Three of the FOCUS-GC domains (Process, Patient Care Experience, and Patient Changes) were assessed as most important, while none of the most highly rated outcomes fell into the domains of Patient Health or Family Changes. The majority of outcomes deemed most important by stakeholder groups were within the process domain. When looking at the proportion of outcomes that overlapped with the consumer group, clinical genetic counselors had the highest degree of similarity with consumers when looking at the high relative importance band outcomes (61.1% overlap), followed by training directors (58.3%), and outcome researchers (41.7%). Variability in importance according to stakeholder groups was an important consideration and prioritizing outcomes was challenging given that the majority of outcomes were rated as important. Working to bridge the realities of clinical care and fundamental differences in the viewpoints and priorities of genetic counseling research directions is an area for future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Deborah Cragun
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Heather Zierhut
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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9
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Parent of Origin Effects on Family Communication of Risk in BRCA+ Women: A Qualitative Investigation of Human Factors in Cascade Screening. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082316. [PMID: 32824510 PMCID: PMC7464326 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic germline variants in Breast Cancer 1/2 (BRCA) genes confer increased cancer risk. Understanding BRCA status/risk can enable family cascade screening and improve cancer outcomes. However, more than half of the families do not communicate family cancer history/BRCA status, and cancer outcomes differ according to parent of origin (i.e., maternally vs. paternally inherited pathogenic variant). We aimed to explore communication patterns around family cancer history/BRCA risk according to parent of origin. We analyzed qualitative interviews (n = 97) using template analysis and employed the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to identify interventions to improve communication. Interviews revealed sub-codes of ‘male stoicism and ‘paternal guilt’ that impede family communication (template code: gender scripting). Conversely, ‘fatherly protection’ and ‘female camaraderie’ promote communication of risk. The template code ‘dysfunctional family communication’ was contextualized by several sub-codes (‘harmful negligence’, ‘intra-family ignorance’ and ‘active withdrawal of support’) emerging from interview data. Sub-codes ‘medical misconceptions’ and ‘medical minimizing’ deepened our understanding of the template code ‘medical biases’. Importantly, sub-codes of ‘informed physicians’ and ‘trust in healthcare’ mitigated bias. Mapping findings to the TPB identified variables to tailor interventions aimed at enhancing family communication of risk and promoting cascade screening. In conclusion, these data provide empirical evidence of the human factors impeding communication of family BRCA risk. Tailored, theory-informed interventions merit consideration for overcoming blocked communication and improving cascade screening uptake.
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10
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Zimmermann BM, Shaw D, Heinimann K, Knabben L, Elger B, Koné I. How the "control-fate continuum" helps explain the genetic testing decision-making process: a grounded theory study. Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 28:1010-1019. [PMID: 32203201 PMCID: PMC7381626 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-0602-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic testing decision-making for cancer predisposition is inherently complex. Understanding the mechanisms and influencing factors of the decision-making process is essential for genetic counselling and has not yet been investigated in Switzerland. This study's aim is thus to provide a theory about the individual's decision-making process regarding genetic testing for cancer predispositions in order to provide medical geneticists and genetic counsellors with insights into the needs and expectations of counsellees. We interviewed at-risk individuals who underwent genetic counselling in a clinical setting in Switzerland, using a grounded theory approach. Based on the interview data, we propose that a control-fate continuum, which is part of the individuals' life philosophy, importantly influences the decision-making process. Those in need for control decide differently compared with those leaving their future to fate. Several psychosocial factors influence the position on the control-fate continuum: "looking for certainty"; "anticipating consequences"; "being socially influenced"; "simplifying risks"; and "deciding intuitively vs reflectively". The control-fate continuum theory gives insights into the possible reasons behind decision-making regarding genetic testing for cancer predispositions. It includes both acceptors and decliners of genetic testing. Our theory helps healthcare professionals offering genetic counselling to anticipate problems within at-risk families and adapting their services to people's needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina M Zimmermann
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - David Shaw
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
- Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Karl Heinimann
- Institute for Medical Genetics and Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, Human Genomics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Laura Knabben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Bern and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bernice Elger
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
- Center for Legal Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Insa Koné
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
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11
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Leighton S, Forrest LE, Young MA, Delatycki MB, Lynch E. Social media usage in family communication about genetic information: 'I no longer speak with my sister but she needed to know'. J Genet Couns 2020; 30:180-190. [PMID: 32648349 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The use of social media has become a ubiquitous form of communication. Little is known about whether social media is used in families to assist with the communication of genetic information. This study aimed to understand if and why individuals use social media to communicate genetic information to at-risk relatives. Individuals with either a pathogenic variant in a cancer-predisposing gene or a heterozygous pathogenic variant in an autosomal or X-linked recessive gene were surveyed about communicating genetic information to their at-risk relatives and their use of social media to assist this process. Surveys were sent to 323 individuals from a reproductive carrier screening program and 250 individuals from a familial cancer center. The 128 responses (response rate 25.2%) showed that while most participants (79.0%) did not use social media to communicate genetic information, those that did use social media (21.0%) found it to be helpful as it was easy, accessible and allowed individuals to overcome communication barriers. Genetic professionals should be aware that social media is being used by individuals to assist family communication about genetic information and should discuss this method of communication with individuals who are faced with communicating genetic information with their family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Leighton
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Tasmanian Clinical Genetics Service, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Laura E Forrest
- Parkville Familial Cancer Centre, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Mary-Anne Young
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Elly Lynch
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance, Parkville, Vic., Australia
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12
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Tsai GJ, Chen AT, Garrett LT, Burke W, Bowen DJ, Shirts BH. Exploring relatives' perceptions of participation, ethics, and communication in a patient-driven study for hereditary cancer variant reclassification. J Genet Couns 2020; 29:857-866. [PMID: 31916645 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Effective communication of genetic information within families depends on several factors. Few studies explore intra-familial communication of variant of uncertain significance (VUS) results or active collaboration between family members to classify VUS. Our qualitative study aimed to describe the experiences of individuals asked by family members to participate in the FindMyVariant study, a patient-driven family study which aimed to reclassify a clinically identified familial VUS in a hereditary cancer gene. We collected feedback from 56 individuals from 21 different families through phone interviews and written correspondence, transcribed the interviews, and performed thematic analysis on all text. We describe themes from three main topics: participation, ethical considerations, and study impacts. Participation in the FindMyVariant study, defined as returning a sample for targeted genotyping, was motivated by convenience and a desire to help the family, oneself, and science. Relatives were generally responsive to invitations to participate in FindMyVariant from another family member. Those who declined to participate did so due to concerns about research program confidentiality rather than family dynamics. No major ethical issues arose in response to the patient-driven study structure, and no major changes in stress and anxiety, medical care, or behavior occurred. Participation in patient-driven familial VUS classification studies has a neutral or positive impact on family health communication. While it is important to design studies to minimize familial coercion, intra-familial confidentiality breaches, and misinterpretation of genetic results, these were not major concerns among relatives in this study. Clinicians and laboratories may consider encouraging familial communication about genetic variants using family members as liaisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginger J Tsai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Annie T Chen
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lauren T Garrett
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Wylie Burke
- Department of Bioethics and Humanities, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Deborah J Bowen
- Department of Bioethics and Humanities, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Brian H Shirts
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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13
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Hesse-Biber S, Dwyer AA, Yi S. Parent of origin differences in psychosocial burden and approach to BRCA risk management. Breast J 2019; 26:734-738. [PMID: 31659791 DOI: 10.1111/tbj.13633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a mixed-method study to examine coping response in BRCA+ women based on parent of origin (maternally vs paternally inherited BRCA mutation). Quantitative findings (n = 408) revealed paternally inherited cases had genetic testing later and were more likely to have a cancer diagnosis. Having a maternally inherited mutation was the strongest predictor of proactive risk management response. Qualitative interviews (n = 56) identified proactive responses among maternally inherited cases compared to reactive responses in paternally inherited cases. Findings underscore the importance of unbiased pedigree analysis to determine cancer risk. Women with paternally inherited BRCA mutations may benefit from additional psychosocial support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew A Dwyer
- Connell School of Nursing and Munn Center for Nursing Research, Boston College, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shiya Yi
- Department of Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics and Assessment, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
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14
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Troïan J, Apostolidis T, Touzani R, Mouret-Fourme E, Stoppa-Lyonnet D, Lasset C, Berthet P, Julian-Reynier C, Mancini J, Noguès C, Bouhnik AD. Parental disclosure of positive BRCA1/2 mutation status to children 10 years after genetic testing. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2019; 25:756-766. [PMID: 31505944 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2019.1659981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The disclosure of genetic information is an important issue in cancer prevention. This study based on a French national cohort of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers (GENEPSO-PS cohort, N=233) aimed to assess the prevalence of parental disclosure of genetic information to children 10 years after genetic testing, with a focus on gender differences. Most participants (n = 193, 131 women) reported having children. A total of 72.0% of offspring had received genetic information (88.8% for adult offspring, p < .001), with no differences according to the gender of the mutation-carrying parent. While female carriers disclosed genetic information more often than male carriers (54.1% versus 38.3%, p = .029), they did so irrespective of the gender of their offspring. Moreover, female carriers who had developed incident cancer after genetic testing disclosed genetic information more frequently than unaffected female carriers (70.7% versus 48.5%, p = .005). A multivariate analysis confirmed the effects of both gender and cancer on disclosure to offspring. The same results were obtained when the analysis was restricted to adult offspring. This study reveals high rates of disclosure of positive BRCA1/2 mutation status to children 10 years after genetic testing, irrespective of the gender of the carrier/offspring. However, female carriers disclosed genetic information more frequently than male carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaïs Troïan
- Aix-Marseille Université, LPS EA 849 , Aix en Provence, France.,Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale , Marseille, France
| | | | - Rajae Touzani
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale , Marseille, France
| | | | - Dominique Stoppa-Lyonnet
- Department of Genetics, Institut Curie , Paris, France.,Institut Curie, INSERM U830 , Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité
| | - Christine Lasset
- Département de Santé Publique, Centre Léon Bérard , Lyon, France.,CNRS UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive Lyon , France.,Université de Lyon , Lyon, France
| | | | - Claire Julian-Reynier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale , Marseille, France.,Institut Paoli-Calmettes, UMR1252 , Marseille, France
| | - Julien Mancini
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale , Marseille, France.,APHM, Hôpital de la Timone, Service Biostatistique et Technologies de l'Information et de la Communication , Marseille, France
| | - Catherine Noguès
- Aix-Marseille Université, LPS EA 849 , Aix en Provence, France.,Département d'Anticipation et de Suivi des Cancers, Oncogénétique clinique, Institut Paoli-Calmettes , Marseille, France
| | - Anne-Déborah Bouhnik
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale , Marseille, France
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15
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Taylor S, Rodrigues M, Poke G, Wake S, McEwen A. Family communication following a diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy: To tell or not to tell? J Genet Couns 2019; 28:1029-1041. [PMID: 31385417 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Family communication about genetic information enables informed medical and reproductive decision-making. The literature suggests that a significant proportion of genetically at-risk family members remain uninformed about genetic risk information as a result of non-disclosure. This study explored the experiences of New Zealand families communicating about a diagnosis of type 1 myotonic dystrophy (DM1). Eligible individuals were identified and recruited from the New Zealand (NZ) MD Prev study, a nationwide study which aimed to determine the prevalence, impact, and costs of genetic muscle disorders across the lifespan. Twelve qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 participants. The findings demonstrate diversity among and within families, with several distinct family narratives described. Most participants reported a motivation to tell relatives about their diagnosis to promote autonomy. Women were pivotal throughout communication processes and this was often tied to the concept of maternal responsibility and a desire to promote relatives' reproductive autonomy. The diagnosis of DM1 and the subsequent family communication decisions altered relationships for many, with both positive and negative impacts described. The findings demonstrate that individuals require time to explore the impact of a diagnosis of DM1 on self, family and intimate partner relationships to anticipate unique communication challenges. Genetic counselors can use these findings to inform their approach to counseling families with DM1. Longitudinal genetic counseling may be beneficial as a way to provide individuals with life stage specific support as they communicate with their relatives about a diagnosis of DM1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby Taylor
- The Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Parkville Familial Cancer Centre and Genomic Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Miriam Rodrigues
- Neurology, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand.,Muscular Dystrophy Association of New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Gemma Poke
- Genetic Health Services, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Samantha Wake
- The Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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16
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Gauna Cristaldo FB, Touzani R, Apostolidis T, Mouret-Fourme E, Stoppa-Lyonnet D, Lasset C, Fricker JP, Berthet P, Julian-Reynier C, Mancini J, Noguès C, Bouhnik AD. Uptake of genetic counseling among adult children of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers in France. Psychooncology 2019; 28:1894-1900. [PMID: 31276266 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Genetic counseling in at-risk families is known to improve cancer prevention. Our study aimed to determine the rate of uptake of genetic counseling among adult children of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and to identify the potential psychosocial factors associated with uptake of genetic counseling. METHODS A self-reported questionnaire was mailed to 328 BRCA1/2 mutation carriers 10 years after BRCA1/2 test disclosure. Of the 233 carriers who returned the questionnaire (response rate = 71%), 135 reported having children over age 18 years and were therefore included in the analysis. Generalized estimating equations models were used to identify the factors associated with uptake of genetic counseling among adult children of mutation carriers. RESULTS Data were gathered for a total of 296 children (46% male, 54% female). The vast majority were informed about the familial mutation (90.9%) and 113 (38%; 95% CI, 32%-44%) underwent genetic counseling. This percentage exceeded 80% in women over 40 years. In the multivariate model, female sex, advanced age, mutation in the father, diagnosis of cancer in the mutation-carrying parent after genetic testing, and good family relationships were all factors associated with higher uptake of genetic counseling. CONCLUSIONS Adult children of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers in France do not undergo genetic counseling sufficiently often. Further studies should be conducted on the psychosocial factors that hinder the uptake of genetic counseling among adult children of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Belén Gauna Cristaldo
- LPS EA 849, Aix-Marseille Université, Aix-en-Provence, France.,Aix-Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France
| | - Rajae Touzani
- Aix-Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,UMR1252, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Dominique Stoppa-Lyonnet
- Department of Genetics, Institut Curie, Paris, France.,INSERM U830, Institut Curie, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Christine Lasset
- Département de Santé Publique, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.,CNRS UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Lyon, France.,Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Fricker
- Service d'Oncogénétique, prévention, dépistage, CLCC Paul Strauss, Strasboug, France
| | - Pascaline Berthet
- Service d'oncologie génétique, Centre François Baclesse, Caen, France
| | - Claire Julian-Reynier
- Aix-Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,UMR1252, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | - Julien Mancini
- Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, HopTimone, BioSTIC, Biostatistique et Technologies de l'Information et de la Communication, Marseille, France
| | - Catherine Noguès
- Aix-Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France.,Département d'Anticipation et de Suivi des Cancers, Oncogénétique clinique, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
| | - Anne-Déborah Bouhnik
- Aix-Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France
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17
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Battistuzzi L, Franiuk M, Kasparian N, Rania N, Migliorini L, Varesco L. A qualitative study on decision‐making about
BRCA1/2
testing in Italian women. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 28:e13083. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Battistuzzi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering University of Genoa Genoa Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Marzena Franiuk
- Unit of Hereditary Cancer San Martino Polyclinic Hospital Genoa Italy
| | - Nadine Kasparian
- Harvard Medical School Harvard University Boston Massachusetts
- Department of Cardiology Boston Children’s Hospital Boston Massachusetts
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women’s and Children’s Health UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Nadia Rania
- Department of Education Sciences University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Laura Migliorini
- Department of Education Sciences University of Genoa Genoa Italy
| | - Liliana Varesco
- Unit of Hereditary Cancer San Martino Polyclinic Hospital Genoa Italy
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18
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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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19
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Young AL, Butow PN, Rhodes P, Tucker KM, Williams R, Healey E, Wakefield CE. Talking across generations: Family communication about BRCA1
and BRCA2
genetic cancer risk. J Genet Couns 2019; 28:516-532. [DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Luk Young
- School of Psychology; The University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
- Behavioral Sciences Unit Proudly Supported by the Kids with Cancer Foundation, Kids Cancer Centre; Sydney Children’s Hospital; Randwick Australia
| | - Phyllis N. Butow
- School of Psychology; The University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Paul Rhodes
- School of Psychology; The University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Katherine M. Tucker
- Prince of Wales Hereditary Cancer Centre; Prince of Wales Hospital; Randwick NSW Australia
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine; University of New South Wales; Randwick NSW Australia
| | - Rachel Williams
- Prince of Wales Hereditary Cancer Centre; Prince of Wales Hospital; Randwick NSW Australia
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine; University of New South Wales; Randwick NSW Australia
| | - Emma Healey
- Illawarra Cancer Care Centre, Wollongong Hospital; Wollongong NSW Australia
| | - Claire E. Wakefield
- Behavioral Sciences Unit Proudly Supported by the Kids with Cancer Foundation, Kids Cancer Centre; Sydney Children’s Hospital; Randwick Australia
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW Australia
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20
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Hudson J, Sturm AC, Salberg L, Brennan S, Quinn GP, Vadaparampil ST. Disclosure of diagnosis to at-risk relatives by individuals diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). J Community Genet 2018; 10:207-217. [PMID: 30121752 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-018-0377-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) affects 1 in 200 people and is the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in the young. Given that HCM usually is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, an HCM diagnosis has implications for biologically related family members. The purpose of this study was to explore probands' disclosure of an HCM diagnosis with these biologically related, at-risk family members. An online survey was posted on the website of the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA), an advocacy and support group for HCM patients and their families. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses to closed-ended questions and demographics. Using an iterative content analysis with the constant comparison approach, we analyzed the responses to open-ended questions inquiring about the nature and role of disclosure communication with at-risk relatives. A total of 315 individuals with a self-reported diagnosis of HCM completed the survey. Most participants (98%) disclosed their diagnosis to at-risk family members. Sixty-four percent disclosed to family members less than 1 year after diagnosis. Participants also disclosed potential treatment options (74.6%) and the emotional impact of the diagnosis (39%). HCM specialists were ranked by participants as being the most helping in explaining the benefit of genetic counseling, while genetic counselor were ranked as least helpful. Emerging themes address the need to encourage screening and genetic testing among family members and to identify external educational resources for use during the disclosure process. Importantly, our study found that the process of disclosure varies based on individuals' experiences and family communication dynamics. However, almost all participants expressed the importance of disclosing the diagnosis of HCM as well as the importance of being screened and expressed needs for additional support during the disclosure process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janella Hudson
- Health Outcomes and Behavior Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA. .,, Tampa, USA.
| | - Amy C Sturm
- Wexner Medical Center and Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Lisa Salberg
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association, Denville, NJ, 07834, USA
| | - Simone Brennan
- School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Gwendolyn P Quinn
- Health Outcomes and Behavior Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.,Department of Oncologic Science, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.,Department of OB-GYN and Population Health, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Susan T Vadaparampil
- Health Outcomes and Behavior Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.,Department of Oncologic Science, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
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21
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"I Am Uncertain About What My Uncertainty Even Is": Men's Uncertainty and Information Management of Their BRCA-Related Cancer Risks. J Genet Couns 2018; 27:1417-1427. [PMID: 29971606 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-018-0276-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Men with a germline pathogenic BRCA1 or BRCA2 variant have increased risks for developing breast, pancreatic, prostate, and melanoma cancers, but little is known about how they understand and manage their cancer risks. This study examines how men with BRCA-related cancer risks manage uncertainty and information about their risks. Twenty-five men who were either a BRCA carrier or have a BRCA-positive first-degree family member that put the participant at 50% chance of also being a BRCA carrier were interviewed for this study. Using uncertainty management theory as a theoretical framework, this study demonstrates that men manage uncertainty by seeking information from female family members, websites, and healthcare providers, and are under-informed about their cancer risks. Further, in handling their information, men prefer information about cancer risk percentages and screening recommendations in the form of lists presented to them via websites, printed literature, proactive healthcare providers, and an identifiable male spokesperson. Finally, men used BRCA-related cancer risk information to make decisions about whether or not to engage in screening and prevention, manage their BRCA-related cancer risks, and overall family well-being-yet often at the expense of their own individual risks. Implications for genetic counseling and family conversations are discussed.
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22
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Skop M, Lorentz J, Jassi M, Vesprini D, Einstein G. "Guys Don't Have Breasts": The Lived Experience of Men Who Have BRCA Gene Mutations and Are at Risk for Male Breast Cancer. Am J Mens Health 2018; 12:961-972. [PMID: 29400121 PMCID: PMC6131433 DOI: 10.1177/1557988317753241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Men with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations are at increased risk of developing breast cancer and may have an indication for breast cancer screening using mammography. Since breast cancer is often viewed as a woman's disease, visibilizing and understanding men's experience of having a BRCA mutation and specifically, of screening for breast cancer through mammography, were the objectives of this research study. The theoretical framework of interpretive phenomenology guided the process of data collection, coding, and analysis. Phenomenology is both a philosophy and research method which focuses on understanding the nature of experience from the perspectives of people experiencing a phenomenon, the essence of and commonalities among people's experiences, and the ways in which people experience the world through their bodies. Data were collected via in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 15 male participants recruited from the Male Oncology Research and Education (MORE) Program. This article reports findings about participants' use of gender-specific language to describe their breasts, awareness of the ways in which their bodies changed overtime, and experiences of undergoing mammograms. This study is the first to describe men with BRCA's perceptions of their breasts and experiences of mammography in a high-risk cancer screening clinic. This study sheds light on an under-researched area-breasts and masculinities-and could potentially lead to improved clinical understanding of men's embodied experiences of BRCA, as well as suggestions for improving the delivery of male breast cancer screening services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Skop
- Department of Psychology, University of
Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Justin Lorentz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sunnybrook
Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mobin Jassi
- Department of Psychology, University of
Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Danny Vesprini
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook
Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gillian Einstein
- Department of Psychology, University of
Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University
of Toronto
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto,
ON
- Tema Genus and IKE, Linköping University,
Sweden
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23
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Suttman A, Pilarski R, Agnese DM, Senter L. "Second-Class Status?" Insight into Communication Patterns and Common Concerns Among Men with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome. J Genet Couns 2018; 27:885-893. [PMID: 29404823 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-018-0214-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) is a cancer predisposition syndrome that affects both men and women, with more significant cancer risk elevations in women. Dissemination patterns regarding familial genetic risk information among females with HBOC are fairly well defined, but knowledge about how males share this information is limited. We interviewed 21 people primarily Ashkenazi Jewish men who were accrued via listserv email through Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE). Interviews focused on family cancer history, experiences with cancer and genetic testing, motivations to pursue genetic testing and subsequently disclose genetic test results, information-sharing patterns, health care provider response, and participants' emotional support systems. The interviews were transcribed in their entirety, coded, and analyzed based on recurring themes. Eighteen transcripts were used for the analysis. Results were classified into five main themes. Participants (n = 8) were most concerned about cancer risk for their children and female family members, and most (n = 11) mentioned that HBOC provides them increased personal awareness, but has a negligible impact on their life overall (n = 9). Men (n = 11) were interested in a male-focused support group to discuss HBOC and gain knowledge and information. Participants (n = 9) took on active and open communication roles with family members and health care providers. The majority of participants (n = 14) discussed the need for knowledge and awareness among the health care community and general population regarding male HBOC risks. This study serves as a pilot study and provides important and novel insights into psychosocial impacts, communication patterns, encounters with health care professionals, and expressed needs of males with HBOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Suttman
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant, Children's Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave, B115, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Robert Pilarski
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Doreen M Agnese
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Leigha Senter
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Moynihan C, Bancroft E, Mitra A, Ardern‐Jones A, Castro E, Page E, Eeles R. Ambiguity in a masculine world: Being a BRCA1/2 mutation carrier and a man with prostate cancer. Psychooncology 2017; 26:1987-1993. [PMID: 28812325 PMCID: PMC5698714 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increased risk of prostate cancer (PCa) is observed in men with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. Sex and gender are key determinants of health and disease although unequal care exists between the sexes. Stereotypical male attitudes are shown to lead to poor health outcomes. METHODS Men with BRCA1/2 mutations and diagnosed with PCa were identified and invited to participate in a qualitative interview study. Data were analysed using a framework approach. "Masculinity theory" was used to report the impact of having both a BRCA1/2 mutation and PCa. RESULTS Eleven of 15 eligible men were interviewed. The umbrella concept of "Ambiguity in a Masculine World" was evident. Men's responses often matched those of women in a genetic context. Men's BRCA experience was described, as "on the back burner" but "a bonus" enabling familial detection and early diagnosis of PCa. Embodiment of PCa took precedence as men revealed stereotypical "ideal" masculine responses such as stoicism and control while creating new "masculinities" when faced with the vicissitudes of having 2 gendered conditions. CONCLUSION Health workers are urged to take a reflexive approach, void of masculine ideals, a belief in which obfuscates men's experience. Research is required regarding men's support needs in the name of equality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E.K. Bancroft
- The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - A. Mitra
- The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- University College HospitalsLondonUK
| | | | - E. Castro
- The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO)MadridSpain
| | - E.C. Page
- The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
| | - R.A. Eeles
- The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUK
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
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25
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Healey E, Taylor N, Greening S, Wakefield CE, Warwick L, Williams R, Tucker K. Quantifying family dissemination and identifying barriers to communication of risk information in Australian BRCA families. Genet Med 2017; 19:1323-1331. [DOI: 10.1038/gim.2017.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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26
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Campbell M, Humanki J, Zierhut H. A novel approach to screening for familial hypercholesterolemia in a large public venue. J Community Genet 2017; 8:35-44. [PMID: 27889901 PMCID: PMC5222759 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-016-0285-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary aim of this study was to test the feasibility of a public health screening program to identify individuals at high risk of familial hypercholesterolemia through a novel screening approach at a large public venue. A finger-prick, non-fasting lipid panel was obtained, and a survey which consisted of 44 open- and close-ended questions divided into four sections: medical and family history of FH, opinions of cascade genetic testing, patient activation, and demographics was completed. A total of 971 participants met criteria and completed a cholesterol screen. In total, five individuals met either the Simon Broome Register or the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network criteria for possible familial hypercholesterolemia. Participants were generally positive towards genetic testing, and the vast majority listed they had no barriers to communication of genetic testing information to family members. However, the most common barrier listed was lack of communication skills. Our results suggest that a public health screening program for FH is viable at a large public venue. We argue that further research is needed to expand this study to a fully operational screening program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Campbell
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 320 Church Street SE, 6-160 Jackson Hall, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Jessa Humanki
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 320 Church Street SE, 6-160 Jackson Hall, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Heather Zierhut
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 320 Church Street SE, 6-160 Jackson Hall, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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27
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Coates N, Gregory M, Skirton H, Gaff C, Patch C, Clarke A, Parsons E. Family communication about cystic fibrosis from the mother's perspective: an exploratory study. J Res Nurs 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/1744987107083594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advent of national newborn screening for cystic fibrosis in the UK, the communication of information within families after a diagnosis is made is important. As cystic fibrosis is a recessive genetic condition, even distant relatives may be carriers and therefore potentially at risk of having an affected child. Eight semi-structured interviews were carried out with mothers of children who were diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at around the time of birth. Thematic analysis was undertaken on interview transcripts. The interview data suggest open communication in these families with respect to first-degree relatives. Although disclosure was more selective with distant relatives, there was evidence that information was filtered to them through other family members. The main reasons for disclosure by mothers appeared to be the need for support and to allow relatives the option of carrier testing. Barriers to disclosure included lack of emotional and geographical closeness to relatives and the desire to protect relatives from unwelcome information. Health professionals may be able to assist the disclosure process by actively discussing disclosure with parents. It may also be helpful to revisit the issue of disclosure with parents after they have had some time to adjust to the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis in their child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Coates
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust Guy's Hospital, London, UK,
| | - Maggie Gregory
- CESAGen - ESRC Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics Cardiff University School of Social Sciences, Wales, UK
| | - Heather Skirton
- Enterprise) of the School of Nursing and Community Studies Faculty of Health and Social Work, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Clara Gaff
- Genetic Health Service Victoria, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville Victoria, Australia
| | - Christine Patch
- Clinical Genetics Department, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Angus Clarke
- Institute of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Wales Cardiff University Wales, UK
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28
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Wu YP, Aspinwall LG, Michaelis TC, Stump T, Kohlmann WG, Leachman SA. Discussion of photoprotection, screening, and risk behaviors with children and grandchildren after melanoma genetic testing. J Community Genet 2016; 7:21-31. [PMID: 26099287 PMCID: PMC4715817 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-015-0243-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the current study was to examine changes in frequency of discussion about melanoma preventive behaviors among adults who received melanoma genetic test reporting and counseling and their children and grandchildren, correspondence of frequency of discussion with intentions, and content of discussions. Participants received CDKN2A/p16 testing and counseling (N = 24, 46 % p16-positive). Discussions about preventive behaviors were assessed before testing and 1 and 6 months post-testing. Intentions to discuss preventive behaviors and perceived preparedness to discuss risk were assessed post-testing. Open-ended questions assessed content of reported discussions. Discussion of preventive behaviors declined following test reporting, with more rapid decline reported by noncarriers. There was a large gap between the percentage of participants who intended to discuss preventive behaviors and who then reported discussions 1 and 6 months after counseling. Participants felt prepared to discuss melanoma risk but also suggested resources to facilitate discussions. Genetic test reporting and counseling alone did not sustain discussions about preventive behaviors for a hereditary cancer with children and grandchildren. The gap between intentions to have discussions and reported discussions has implications for augmentation of counseling to support at-risk families' discussions about preventive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yelena P Wu
- Division of Public Health, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, 375 Chipeta Way, Suite A, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
| | - Lisa G Aspinwall
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 South 1530 East, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Timothy C Michaelis
- School of Medicine, University of Utah, 30 North 1900 East, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Tammy Stump
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 South 1530 East, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Wendy G Kohlmann
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Sancy A Leachman
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3303 Southwest Bond Avenue, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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29
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Greenberg M, Smith RA. Support Seeking or Familial Obligation: An Investigation of Motives for Disclosing Genetic Test Results. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2015; 31:668-78. [PMID: 26507777 PMCID: PMC5139682 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2014.989384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Genetic test results reveal not only personal information about a person's likelihood of certain medical conditions but also information about the person's genetic relatives. Given the familial nature of genetic information, one's obligation to protect family members may be a motive for disclosing genetic test results, but this claim has not been methodically tested. Existing models of disclosure decision making presume self-interested motives, such as seeking social support, instead of other-interested motives, like familial obligation. This study investigated young adults' (N = 173) motives to share a genetic-based health condition, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, after reading a hypothetical vignette. Results show that social support and familial obligation were both reported as motives for disclosure. In fact, some participants reported familial obligation as their primary motivator for disclosure. Finally, stronger familial obligation predicted increased likelihood of disclosing hypothetical genetic test results. Implications of these results were discussed in reference to theories of disclosure decision-making models and the practice of genetic disclosures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Greenberg
- a Department of Communication Arts and Sciences , Pennsylvania State University
| | - Rachel A Smith
- a Department of Communication Arts and Sciences , Pennsylvania State University
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30
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Hesse-Biber S, An C. Within-Gender Differences in Medical Decision Making Among Male Carriers of the BRCA Genetic Mutation for Hereditary Breast Cancer. Am J Mens Health 2015; 11:1444-1459. [PMID: 26468160 DOI: 10.1177/1557988315610806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An intersectional approach was used to understand sex/gender differences in men's health decisions with regard to hereditary breast cancer (BRCA). A sequential explanatory mixed method design was employed consisting of an online survey with a convenience sample of 101 men who tested positive for the breast cancer mutation following up with an in-depth interview with a subsample of 26 males who participated in the survey. The survey results revealed that 70.3% ( n = 45) considered "Family Risk" as the primary reason for getting BRCA tested; 21.9% ( n = 14) considered "Medical Considerations," and 7.8% ( n = 5) considered "Social Support" as their primary reason. Male participants who were 50 years old or younger or who did not have children were more likely to consider medical reasons as the primary reason to get tested. In terms of self-concept, younger men were more stigmatized than their older counterparts; married men felt a greater loss of control with regard to their BRCA-positive mutation diagnosis than single men; and professional men as a whole felt more vulnerable to the negative influences of the disease than those who had already retired. Regression analysis results indicated that negative self-concept was strongly related to sampled males' BRCA involvement 6 months after testing. Applying an intersectional approach to health care, decision-making outcomes among BRCA-positive mutation males provides an important lens for ascertaining the within-sex/gender demographic and psychosocial factors that affect the diversity of men's pretesting and posttesting medical decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chen An
- 1 Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
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31
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Patients’ Attitudes Towards Disclosure of Genetic Test Results to Family Members: The Impact of Patients’ Sociodemographic Background and Counseling Experience. J Genet Couns 2015; 25:314-24. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-015-9873-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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32
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Hughes Halbert C, Welch B, Lynch C, Magwood G, Rice L, Jefferson M, Riley J. Social determinants of family health history collection. J Community Genet 2015; 7:57-64. [PMID: 26280996 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-015-0251-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Family health history (FHH) is the most basic form of genomic information. Although public health efforts have been made to promote FHH collection, empirical data on the extent to which community residents in rural areas actively collect FHH is limited. Therefore, we examined rates of FHH collection in a community-based sample of South Carolina residents. We conducted a structured telephone survey in a random sample of black and white South Carolina residents. Respondents were asked if they had ever actively collected FHH from relatives using an item developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Overall, 42 % of respondents reported that they had actively collected their FHH. Blacks were significantly more likely than whites to have collected their FHH in bivariate analysis, but race did not have a significant association with FHH collection in the multivariate model (OR = 1.36, 95 % CI = 0.79, 2.35, p = 0.26). The likelihood of collecting FHH was increased among respondents whose last medical visit occurred in the past year compared to those whose last medical visit was more than 1 year ago (OR = 2.00, 95 % CI = 1.12, 3.56, p = 0.02). In addition, older respondents had a reduced likelihood of collecting their FHH (OR = 0.69, 95 % CI = 0.53, 0.90, p = .01). Lastly, women were about twice as likely as men to have collected their FHH (OR = 1.83, 95 % CI = 1.12, 2.99, p = 0.02). Greater efforts are needed to increase the collection of FHH information; these efforts may need to target men, the elderly, and individuals who have not had a recent medical visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanita Hughes Halbert
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 68 President Street, Suite BE103, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
- Health Equity and Rural Outreach Innovation Center, Ralph H. Johnson Veteran Administration Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Brandon Welch
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Cheryl Lynch
- Health Equity and Rural Outreach Innovation Center, Ralph H. Johnson Veteran Administration Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Gayenell Magwood
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - LaShanta Rice
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 68 President Street, Suite BE103, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Melanie Jefferson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 68 President Street, Suite BE103, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jodie Riley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 68 President Street, Suite BE103, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Redlinger-Grosse K, Veach PM, Cohen S, LeRoy BS, MacFarlane IM, Zierhut H. Defining Our Clinical Practice: The Identification of Genetic Counseling Outcomes Utilizing the Reciprocal Engagement Model. J Genet Couns 2015. [PMID: 26204965 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-015-9864-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The need for evidence-based medicine, including comparative effectiveness studies and patient-centered outcomes research, has become a major healthcare focus. To date, a comprehensive list of genetic counseling outcomes, as espoused by genetic counselors, has not been established and thus, identification of outcomes unique to genetic counseling services has become a priority for the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC). The purpose of this study was to take a critical first step at identifying a more comprehensive list of genetic counseling outcomes. This paper describes the results of a focus group study using the Reciprocal-Engagement Model (REM) as a framework to characterize patient-centered outcomes of genetic counseling clinical practice. Five focus groups were conducted with 27 peer nominated participants who were clinical genetic counselors, genetic counseling program directors, and/or outcomes researchers in genetic counseling. Members of each focus group were asked to identify genetic counseling outcomes for four to five of the 17 goals of the REM. A theory-driven, thematic analysis of focus group data yielded 194 genetic counseling outcomes across the 17 goals. Participants noted some concerns about how genetic counseling outcomes will be measured and evaluated given varying stakeholders and the long-term nature of genetic concerns. The present results provide a list of outcomes for use in future genetic counseling outcomes research and for empirically-supported clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista Redlinger-Grosse
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, 250 Education Sciences Building, 56 E. River Road, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Patricia McCarthy Veach
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, 250 Education Sciences Building, 56 E. River Road, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Stephanie Cohen
- Cancer Genetics Risk Assessment Program, St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Bonnie S LeRoy
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Heather Zierhut
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Hovick SR, Yamasaki JS, Burton-Chase AM, Peterson SK. Patterns of family health history communication among older African American adults. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2015; 20:80-7. [PMID: 25174859 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2014.908984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study examined patterns of communication regarding family health history among older African American adults. The authors conducted 5 focus groups and 6 semi-structured interviews with African Americans aged 60 years and older (N = 28). The authors identified 4 distinct patterns of family health history communication: noncommunication, open communication, selective communication (communication restricted to certain people or topics), and one-way communication (communication not reciprocated by younger family members). In general, participants favored open family health history communication, often resulting from desires to change patterns of noncommunication in previous generations regarding personal and family health history. Some participants indicated that they were selective about what and with whom they shared health information in order to protect their privacy and not worry others. Others described family health history communication as one-way or unreciprocated by younger family members who appeared uninterested or unwilling to share personal and family health information. The communication patterns that the authors identified are consistent with communication privacy management theory and with findings from studies focused on genetic testing results for hereditary conditions, suggesting that individuals are consistent in their communication of health and genetic risk information. Findings may guide the development of health message strategies for African Americans to increase family health history communication.
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Pal T, Vadaparampil S, Kim J, Xu Y, Friedman S, Narod SA, Metcalfe K. Interest of individuals from BRCA families to participate in research studies focused on male BRCA carriers. Fam Cancer 2014; 12:615-9. [PMID: 23504063 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-013-9624-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Although men and women are equally likely to carry a mutation in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA) genes, the clinical significance of mutations in men remains incompletely defined. We sought evaluate interest of individuals from BRCA families to participate in a research study focused on men from BRCA families. Through an anonymous survey posted on the website of the BRCA patient advocacy organization, facing our risk of cancer empowered (FORCE), data was collected over a 21 month period (August 2010-June 2012) from members of BRCA families. The survey was completed by 405 individuals with known BRCA mutations, including 150 males and 232 females. The median age of survey respondents was 49 years (50 years for males and 48 years for females). Overall, 84% of survey respondents indicated prior BRCA mutation testing (95.2% females, 67.3% males). For the overall group of survey respondents, 84% (86% females, 84% males) indicated they would tell their male relatives about a research study focused on high risk men from BRCA families, and 53% (39% females, 74% males) thought that their male relatives would be interested in participating in such a study. Despite limited studies focused on men from BRCA mutation positive families, our survey suggests that both male and female family members are highly interested in focused on male BRCA mutation carriers. The importance of further studying this topic is underscored by emerging literature that suggest cancer surveillance and treatment decisions may improve outcomes in men with BRCA mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuya Pal
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA,
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36
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Dimond R. Negotiating identity at the intersection of paediatric and genetic medicine: the parent as facilitator, narrator and patient. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2014; 36:1-14. [PMID: 23574273 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.12035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
This article identifies a significant transformation in the role and identity of parents accompanying their child to clinic. This shift is a product of the intersection between paediatric and genetic medicine, where parents play a critical role in providing information about their child, family and ultimately, about themselves. To provide a context for this matrix, two broad areas of sociological inquiry are highlighted. The first is explanations of the role a parent plays in paediatric medicine and the second is the diagnostic process in paediatric genetics and the implications for parent and child identities. Drawing from an ethnographic study of clinical consultations, attention is paid to the changing role of parenthood and the extended role of patienthood in paediatric genetic medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Dimond
- School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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37
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Ulph F, Cullinan T, Qureshi N, Kai J. Informing children of their newborn screening carrier result for sickle cell or cystic fibrosis: qualitative study of parents' intentions, views and support needs. J Genet Couns 2013; 23:409-20. [PMID: 24306142 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-013-9675-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Newborn screening for cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease enables the early identification and treatment of affected children, prolonging and enhancing their quality of life. Screening, however, also identifies carriers. There are minimal or no health concerns for carriers. There are, however, potential implications when carriers reach reproductive age, and thus research attention has been given to how best to convey information about these implications in a meaningful, balanced way which does not raise undue anxieties. Most research focuses on the communication from health professional to parent, yet ultimately this information is of greatest significance to the child. This study examines parents' intentions to inform their child of newborn screening carrier results. Semi-structured interviews with 67 family members explored their intentions to inform the child, and related views and support needs. Parents almost unanimously indicated they planned to inform the child themselves. Health professionals were expected, however, to provide guidance on this process either to parents through advice and provision of written materials, or directly to the child. Although parents initially stated that they would convey the result once their child had developed the ability to understand the information, many appeared to focus on discrete life events linked to informed reproductive decision making. The results highlight ways in which health care providers may assist parents, including providing written material suitable for intergenerational communication and ensuring that cascade screening is accessible for those seeking it. Priorities for further research are identified in light of the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Ulph
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK,
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Macrae L, de Souza AN, Loiselle CG, Wong N. Experience of BRCA1/2 mutation-negative young women from families with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer: a qualitative study. Hered Cancer Clin Pract 2013; 11:14. [PMID: 24131499 PMCID: PMC3829374 DOI: 10.1186/1897-4287-11-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the experience of young women who become aware of their parent's BRCA1 or BRCA2 (BRCA) mutation status as adolescents or young adults. There is also currently a gap in the literature pertaining to those who are found to be negative for their familial mutation. We aimed to investigate the experience of these mutation-negative young women from hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) families. METHODS Using a semi-structured questionnaire we interviewed 8 women. All of the women were non-carriers of their familial mutation and had learned of the mutation in their family as adolescents or young adults at least 6 months prior to undergoing genetic testing. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and independently analyzed by the investigators. This was followed by an in-depth cross-case analysis, enabling the formulation of emergent themes. RESULTS The women's age ranged from 22 to 37 years old and all were of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. Prominent emergent themes from the interviews included the impact of how and when the familial mutation status was disclosed, the factors influencing when a young woman chooses to undergo predictive genetic testing, the predictors of post-test adjustment and risk perception, as well as the impact of familial cancer experience versus the familial mutation. CONCLUSIONS By eliciting detailed patient narratives we have begun to show that this generation of BRCA mutation-negative young women is likely still affected by the degree of cancer history in their family, even with their understanding of the genetic contribution to disease. Larger studies with tightened participant characteristics, as well as studies involving women from different cultural backgrounds, are needed to further define the experience and needs of true negative young women from HBOC families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Macrae
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Carmen G Loiselle
- Centre for Nursing Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nora Wong
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Eijzenga W, Hahn DEE, Aaronson NK, Kluijt I, Bleiker EMA. Specific psychosocial issues of individuals undergoing genetic counseling for cancer - a literature review. J Genet Couns 2013; 23:133-46. [PMID: 23996531 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-013-9649-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 25% of individuals undergoing genetic counseling for cancer experiences clinically relevant levels of distress, anxiety and/or depression. However, these general psychological outcomes that are used in many studies do not provide detailed information on the specific psychosocial problems experienced by counselees. The aim of this review was to investigate the specific psychosocial issues encountered by individuals undergoing genetic counseling for cancer, and to identify overarching themes across these issues. A literature search was performed, using four electronic databases (PubMed, PsychInfo, CINAHL and Embase). Papers published between January 2000 and January 2013 were selected using combinations, and related indexing terms of the keywords: 'genetic counseling', 'psychology' and 'cancer'. In total, 25 articles met our inclusion criteria. We identified the specific issues addressed by these papers, and used meta-ethnography to identify the following six overarching themes: coping with cancer risk, practical issues, family issues, children-related issues, living with cancer, and emotions. A large overlap in the specific issues and themes was found between these studies, suggesting that research on specific psychosocial problems within genetic counseling has reached a point of saturation. As a next step, efforts should be made to detect and monitor these problems of counselees at an early stage within the genetic counseling process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem Eijzenga
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066, CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Wiens ME, Wilson BJ, Honeywell C, Etchegary H. A family genetic risk communication framework: guiding tool development in genetics health services. J Community Genet 2013; 4:233-42. [PMID: 23319393 PMCID: PMC3666832 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-012-0134-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Family communication of genetic risk information is a complex process. Currently, there are no evidence-based interventions to help genetics professionals facilitate the process of disclosure within families. This study was designed to create a framework to assist in the development of tools to support patients in communicating genetic risk information to family members. A systematic review identified the factors relevant in communicating genetic risk information in families. A guiding theory for the proposed framework was selected and populated with the factors identified from the review. The review identified 112 factors of relevance. The theory of planned behaviour was selected to guide framework development, organising the framework in terms of the patient's attitudes about disclosure, perceived pressure to disclose and perceived control over disclosure. Attitudes about disclosure are influenced by a desire to protect oneself or family members, and the patient's perceptions of relevance of the information for family members, responsibility to disclose, family members' rights to information and the usefulness of communicating. Perceived pressure to disclose information is shaped by genetic professionals, family members and society. Perceived control over disclosure is affected by family relationships/dynamics, personal communication skills, the ability of the patient and family to understand the information and coping skills of the patient and family member. The family genetic risk communication framework presents a concise synthesis of the evidence on family communication of genetic information; it may be useful in creating and evaluating tools to help genetic counsellors and patients with communication issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam E Wiens
- CF Health Services Group Headquarters, Department of National Defence, 1745 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1A 0K6,
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Black L, McClellan KA, Avard D, Knoppers BM. Intrafamilial disclosure of risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer: points to consider. J Community Genet 2013; 4:203-14. [PMID: 23275181 PMCID: PMC3666841 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-012-0132-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Accepted: 12/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary goal of breast and ovarian cancer screening is to minimize the cases of advanced disease and therefore its mortality rate. For hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, one method to reach this goal is to disseminate genetic risk information among family members. However, experience tells us that this information does not always reach family members in a timely manner, if at all. There are many moving parts to a decision to disclose genetic risk information within a family, and the lack of detail and cohesion in current guidelines do a disservice to hereditary breast cancer prevention. Utilizing legal, medical, and policy databases for literature, case law and policy documents relating to communication of genetic test results within families, as well as a consultative process with representative stakeholders, a points to consider has been developed to address a number of issues that might impact the ability and willingness of patients to inform family members of genetic risk. These include: what is "genetic information"; who is the "family"; why should patients inform their family members; and how should health professionals be involved in this process? This represents only an initial step towards fostering better communication within families. Additional research is needed to determine the best methods for encouraging this communication and motivations for disclosing or not and to promote the development of a solution, considering the complexity of human relationships and the probabilistic nature of genetic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Black
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, 740 Dr. Penfield Ave., Suite 5200, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3A 0G1,
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Francke U, Dijamco C, Kiefer AK, Eriksson N, Moiseff B, Tung JY, Mountain JL. Dealing with the unexpected: consumer responses to direct-access BRCA mutation testing. PeerJ 2013; 1:e8. [PMID: 23638402 PMCID: PMC3628894 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 12/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Inherited BRCA gene mutations convey a high risk for breast and ovarian cancer, but current guidelines limit BRCA mutation testing to women with early-onset cancer and relatives of mutation-positive cases. Benefits and risks of providing this information directly to consumers are unknown. Methods. To assess and quantify emotional and behavioral reactions of consumers to their 23andMe Personal Genome Service® report of three BRCA mutations that are common in Ashkenazi Jews, we invited all 136 BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation-positive individuals in the 23andMe customer database who had chosen to view their BRCA reports to participate in this IRB-approved study. We also invited 160 mutation-negative customers who were matched for age, sex and ancestry. Semi-structured phone interviews were completed for 32 mutation carriers, 16 women and 16 men, and 31 non-carriers. Questions addressed personal and family history of cancer, decision and timing of viewing the BRCA report, recollection of the result, emotional responses, perception of personal cancer risk, information sharing, and actions taken or planned. Results. Eleven women and 14 men had received the unexpected result that they are carriers of a BRCA1 185delAG or 5382insC, or BRCA2 6174delT mutation. None of them reported extreme anxiety and four experienced moderate anxiety that was transitory. Remarkably, five women and six men described their response as neutral. Most carrier women sought medical advice and four underwent risk-reducing procedures after confirmatory mutation testing. Male carriers realized that their test results implied genetic risk for female relatives, and several of them felt considerably burdened by this fact. Sharing mutation information with family members led to screening of at least 30 relatives and identification of 13 additional carriers. Non-carriers did not report inappropriate actions, such as foregoing cancer screening. All but one of the 32 mutation-positive participants appreciated learning their BRCA mutation status. Conclusions. Direct access to BRCA mutation tests, considered a model for high-risk actionable genetic tests of proven clinical utility, provided clear benefits to participants. The unexpected information demonstrated a cascade effect as relatives of newly identified carriers also sought testing and more mutation carriers were identified. Given the absence of evidence for serious emotional distress or inappropriate actions in this subset of mutation-positive customers who agreed to be interviewed for this study, broader screening of Ashkenazi Jewish women for these three BRCA mutations should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uta Francke
- 23andMe, Inc. , Mountain View, CA , USA ; Department of Genetics , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford, CA , USA
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Forrest Keenan K, Simpson SA, Miedzybrodzka Z, Alexander DA, Semper J. How do partners find out about the risk of Huntington's disease in couple relationships? J Genet Couns 2013; 22:336-44. [PMID: 23297124 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-012-9562-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2012] [Accepted: 12/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Whilst a growing body of work has explored family communication about Huntington's disease and how at-risk individuals learn about their risk, the experience of telling a partner and partners' experiences of finding out about this potentially devastating hereditary illness have received little attention. This study describes the experiences of partners in finding out about Huntington's disease and any impact on couple's relationships/marriages. We undertook a thematic analysis of qualitative interviews which explored the dynamics of partners' marriages after predictive testing and partners' views of genetic counseling. A main theme from partners' accounts was how they found out about their spouse's risk of Huntington's disease and the impact this had on marital relations. The analysis revealed four types of disclosure experiences: (1) marital secrets; (2) alerting, but not telling; (3) knowing and seeing; (4) marital ignorance. Our findings demonstrate that partners' experiences of (non)disclosure about the risk of HD within marriages is an important factor which contributes to couples' coping or marital problems. Exploring how spouses found out about their partner's risk of HD will illuminate issues about a couple's past and future patterns of communication and their coping strategies. A practical and ethical implication is the extent to which genetic counselors should inform partners about the course and nature of Huntington's disease when a partner is the support person for the individual being tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Forrest Keenan
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK.
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Family Communication Following BRCA1/2 Genetic Testing: A Close Look at the Process. J Genet Couns 2012; 22:323-35. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-012-9559-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Mendes Á, Sousa L. Families' experience of oncogenetic counselling: accounts from a heterogeneous hereditary cancer risk population. Fam Cancer 2012; 11:291-306. [PMID: 22367452 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-012-9514-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports the results of semi-structured family interviews conducted with a purposive sample of nine families (comprising 50 individuals) involved in cancer genetic counselling at a Portuguese public hospital. Qualitative analysis resulted in thematic categories illustrating: (1) how families go through cancer genetic counselling (eliciting risk awareness, the motivators, risk management, the psychosocial context of familial engagement in genetic counselling, and the familial pathways of cancer risk tracking); and (2) how families incorporate genetic risk into family life (strategies for family resilience, and the meanings and values that permeate the experience). Families have recognised the value of genetic counselling in enabling participants to take measures to confront disease risk; however, the experience was dominated by distressing feelings. A set of ethical-relational principles guided the experience. Familial experiences on genetic counselling and tracking of cancer susceptibility encompass a sense of trajectory that takes the form of an historical and intergenerational narrative process, linking past, present and possible futures. Such process implies an ongoing set of individual and interactional experiences taking place over time. Specific changes associated with the illness timeline and with individual and family developmental lifespan transitions are thus acknowledged. These results may help genetics healthcare practitioners understand how families perceive, respond to and accommodate cancer risk counselling, and thus illuminate family-oriented tenets for planning and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Mendes
- Health, Family and Community Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of Aveiro, University Campus of Santiago, 3810-093, Aveiro, Portugal.
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Abstract
This qualitative study explored the experiences of Norwegian men after being identified as BRCA 1/2 mutation-positive. Only limited knowledge is available on this topic; therefore, the aim of this study was to gain a deeper insight from the men's own perspectives. Data were collected from in-depth interviews with 15 men and seven of their partners. The participants described fear of cancer development, and two main narrative patterns were identified: fear for their own health, including fear of developing cancer, and negative feelings about responsibility for others' health. The men expressed fear of developing cancer themselves and described a need for genetic risk information. They were also deeply concerned about how the mutation might affect their children and other relatives. There is a need for guidelines concerning genetic risk information and follow-up programs for male BRCA 1/2 mutation carriers. This study adds valuable contextual insights into their experiences of living with fear of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Strømsvik
- Western Norway Familial Cancer Center, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021, Bergen, Norway.
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47
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Shiloh S, Dagan E, Friedman I, Blank N, Friedman E. A follow-up study on men tested for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations: impacts and coping processes. Psychooncology 2011; 22:417-25. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.2106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2011] [Revised: 11/01/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Irit Friedman
- Susanne Levy Gertner Oncogenetics Unit; Sheba Medical Center; Ramat Gan; Israel
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Sharff ME, DeMarco TA, Mays D, Peshkin BN, Valdimarsdottir HB, Garber JE, Schneider KA, Patenaude AF, Tercyak KP. Parenting through genetic uncertainty: themes in the disclosure of breast cancer risk information to children. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2011; 16:376-82. [PMID: 22085394 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2011.0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Among mothers undergoing BRCA1/2 testing and their spouses/partners, this study sought to examine decision support needs and motivations for family communication of genetic risk information to asymptomatic children. METHODS This study gathered data from 213 tested mothers and 104 of their untested parenting partners 1 month after maternal receipt of genetic test results and upon making a decision about communicating genetic information to their child (ages 8-21 years). Data include parents' perceived needs for family communication decision support, decision motivations, and parent-child communication. RESULTS Parents reported high decision support needs (e.g., educational materials, professional counseling, peer assistance). Motivations for disclosure to children among mothers and partners focused on promoting the parent-child bond and maintaining family health (55.3% and 75%, respectively) and promoting positive child affect (44.7% and 25.5%, respectively). Motivations for nondisclosure to children among mothers and partners focused on the lack of appropriateness (69.6% and 51.3%, respectively) and relative importance of genetic test results (30.4% and 48.7%, respectively). Significant discrepancies in parental motivation for family communication were observed. Decision support needs were highest among disclosing mothers with affect-related motivations [t (129)=2.47; p=0.01]. Parent-child communication was poorest among nondisclosing mothers concerned about the appropriateness of genetic information for their child [t (77)=-3.29; p=.002]. CONCLUSIONS Parents receiving information about hereditary cancer predisposition have unmet needs when making decisions about disclosing genetic risk information to their asymptomatic children. These data can guide the development of cancer risk communication decision support interventions for parents undergoing such testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKane E Sharff
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Peters JA, Kenen R, Hoskins LM, Koehly LM, Graubard B, Loud JT, Greene MH. Unpacking the blockers: understanding perceptions and social constraints of health communication in hereditary breast ovarian cancer (HBOC) susceptibility families. J Genet Couns 2011; 20:450-64. [PMID: 21547418 PMCID: PMC3412366 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-011-9370-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Family communication is essential for accurate cancer risk assessment and counseling; family blockers play a role in this communication process. This qualitative analysis of social exchanges is an extension of earlier work characterizing those who are perceived by study participants as health information gatherers, disseminators, and blockers within families with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) susceptibility. Eighty-nine women, ages 23-56 years, enrolled in a Breast Imaging Study (BIS) and participated in a sub-study utilizing a social assessment tool known as the Colored Ecological Genetic Relational Map (CEGRM). Purposive sampling ensured that participants varied according to numbers of participating family members e.g., ranging from 1 to 6. Eighty-nine women from 42 families (1-8 relatives/family) participated. They collectively designated 65 blockers, both male and female. Situational factors, beliefs, attitudes and cultural traditions, privacy and protectiveness comprised perceived reasons for blocking intra-family health communications. Longitudinal data collected over 4 years showed families where blocking behavior was universally recognized and stable over time, as well as other families where blocking was less consistent. Self-blocking was observed among a significant minority of participating women. Blocking of health communications among family members with HBOC was variable, complex, and multifaceted. The reasons for blocking were heterogeneous; duration of the blocking appeared to depend on the reasons for blocking. Blocking often seemed to involve bi-directional feedback loops, in keeping with Lepore's Social Constraints and Modulation Theory. Privacy and protectiveness predominated as explanations for long-term blocking.
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Affiliation(s)
- June A Peters
- Clinical Genetics Branch (CGB), Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Rockville, MD 20852, USA.
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Family communication matters: the impact of telling relatives about unclassified variants and uninformative DNA-test results. Genet Med 2011; 13:333-41. [PMID: 21358410 DOI: 10.1097/gim.0b013e318204cfed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unclassified variant and uninformative BRCA1/2 results are not only relevant for probands to whom results are disclosed but also for untested relatives. Previous studies have seldom included relatives and have not explained how their lives were influenced by these results. We explored the family communication timeline of genetic counseling: (1) genetic counselors communicate the relatives' cancer risk, (2) probands perceive this risk and (3) communicate this to relatives; (4) relatives perceive this information, and (5) experience an impact on their lives. METHODS We conducted a retrospective descriptive study in 13 probands with an unclassified variant and 5 with an uninformative result, and in, respectively, 27 and 12 of their untested female relatives from moderate cancer risk families. In questionnaires, probands described their perception of the DNA-test result (i.e., recollections and interpretations of cancer risks and heredity likelihood). Relatives described the communication process, their perception, and impact (i.e., medical decisions, distress, quality of life, and life changes). Bootstrap analysis was used to analyze mediation effects. RESULTS The relatives' own perception strongly predicted breast self-examination, breast/ovarian surveillance or surgery, levels of distress and quality of life, and amount of reported life changes. The extent to which the proband had communicated the DNA-test result in an understandable, direct, reassuring way, predicted the relatives' perception. The actual communicated relatives' cancer risks or the proband's perception did not predict relatives' perception and impact measures. Family characteristics influenced the communication process but not the relatives' perception and outcomes. DISCUSSION Relatives seem to make poorly informed decisions on the basis of their own perception, which was unrelated to the information that probands had communicated on the basis of the actual communicated result. Therefore, genetic counselors may guide probands in the communication process and may directly inform relatives, if possible.
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