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Cragun D, Dean M, Baker D, Kelley M, Hooker G, Weidner A, Hunt P, Pal T. The Development and Evaluation of Novel Patient Educational Material for a Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS) Result in Hereditary Cancer Genes. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:3361-3378. [PMID: 38920739 PMCID: PMC11202617 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31060256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
A Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS) is a difference in the DNA sequence with uncertain consequences for gene function. A VUS in a hereditary cancer gene should not change medical care, yet some patients undergo medical procedures based on their VUS result, highlighting the unmet educational needs among patients and healthcare providers. To address this need, we developed, evaluated, and refined novel educational materials to explain that while VUS results do not change medical care, it remains important to share any personal or family history of cancer with family members given that their personal and family medical history can guide their cancer risk management. We began by reviewing the prior literature and transcripts from interviews with six individuals with a VUS result to identify content and design considerations to incorporate into educational materials. We then gathered feedback to improve materials via a focus group of multidisciplinary experts and multiple rounds of semi-structured interviews with individuals with a VUS result. Themes for how to improve content, visuals, and usefulness were used to refine the materials. In the final round of interviews with an additional 10 individuals with a VUS result, materials were described as relatable, useful, factual, and easy to navigate, and also increased their understanding of cancer gene VUS results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Cragun
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Marleah Dean
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
- Outcomes & Behavior Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - David Baker
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Meghan Kelley
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Gillian Hooker
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Anne Weidner
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Paige Hunt
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Tuya Pal
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
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Martin SC, Scott AM, Stone AM. Examining the communication work of women who have tested BRCA-positive: "I feel this responsibility to let people know". J Genet Couns 2024. [PMID: 38623721 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Inheriting a pathogenic variant in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene considerably increases a woman's risk levels for developing breast and ovarian cancer. In addition to serious physical health implications, women with a BRCA pathogenic variant may face psychosocial challenges, including those related to navigating the often demanding process of communicating about topics regarding BRCA with family and other social network members. Based on in-depth interviews with 24 women who tested BRCA-positive, we found that-consistent with the conceptualization of communication work articulated by Donovan-Kicken et al. (2012) as an extension of the theory of illness trajectories (Corbin & Strauss, 1988)-the labor of communicating about BRCA genetic risk entails (a) duties, (b) challenges, (c) strategies, and (d) shared work. Within each category, our results illuminate particular characteristics of communication work for women who have tested BRCA-positive, which are commonly tied to the profound health consequences that a pathogenic variant may have for them and, potentially, for their genetic relatives. Our findings offer useful theoretical implications regarding communication work in this context. Furthermore, our results yield valuable practical insight for genetic counselors and other health care professionals regarding the struggles that can accompany communication work for women who have tested BRCA-positive as well as the strategies that participants reported using to manage or avoid these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summer C Martin
- Department of Human Communication Studies, California State University, Fullerton, California, USA
| | - Allison M Scott
- Department of Communication, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Anne M Stone
- Department of Communication, Rollins College, Winter Park, Florida, USA
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Dean M, Baker JT, Reblin M, Hintz EA, Vadaparampil ST, Haskins C, Quinn GP. Feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes of a pilot intervention facilitating communication about family building between patients with inherited cancer risk and their partners. PEC INNOVATION 2022; 1:100055. [PMID: 37213754 PMCID: PMC10194220 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2022.100055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective This study reports the feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes of a longitudinal, communication pilot intervention for patients with inherited cancer risk and their partners. Methods Couples were recruited through social media and snowball sampling. At Time 1 and 2, 15 couples completed a structured discussion task about family building concerns and decisions, followed by an online post-discussion questionnaire and dyadic interview to provide feedback about the experience. Interview data were analyzed to assess outcomes using applied thematic analysis. Results Participants reported the intervention created an opportunity for honest disclosure of family building goals and concerns. Participants also stated the structured nature of the discussion task was useful and did not cause additional stress. The intervention ultimately aided at-risk patients and their partners to realize their concordant concerns, discover/confront discordant concerns, and mutually agree upon next steps. Conclusions This pilot intervention is feasible and acceptable. Furthermore, it offers a framework to facilitate effective communication about family building between patients with inherited cancer risk and their partners. Innovation This intervention is the first conversational tool designed for at-risk patients and their partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marleah Dean
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
- Corresponding author at: Department of Communication, University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave CIS 3068, Tampa, FL 33620, USA.
| | - Jonathan T. Baker
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Maija Reblin
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Vermont, VT, USA
| | | | | | - Carolyn Haskins
- Department of Genetic Counseling, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Gwendolyn P. Quinn
- Department of OB-GYN, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, NY, USA
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Friley LB, Venetis MK. Decision-Making Criteria When Contemplating Disclosure of Transgender Identity to Medical Providers. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 37:1031-1040. [PMID: 33567931 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2021.1885774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As identified in HealthyPeople 2020, the transgender population faces various barriers in accessing quality health care. One barrier includes the fear of negative response or refusal of treatment after disclosing one's transgender identity. In an effort to address this concern, it is essential to understand the criteria that transgender patients consider when determining if they will disclose their gender identity. The disclosure decision-making model (DD-MM) describes how individuals make decisions to share non-visible, health-relevant information with others. Applying the information assessment component of the DD-MM, the present study investigated the salient information assessment themes that contribute to transgender patients' decisions to disclose or withhold their gender identity from medical providers. The sample (N = 26) included transgender individuals who participated in in-depth interviews and described instances and criteria of disclosure decisions. Results revealed that when gauging stigma, participants consider cultural attitudes, how providers may attribute health concerns to their transgender identity, and if providers will perceive them as "trans enough" to provide access to transition-related care. When transition-related care is not necessary, participants' disclosure decision criteria include thoughts on how providers will perceive their gender expression and whether their transgender identity is salient to the medical interaction. Findings also highlighted opportunities for extending prior theoretical conceptualizations and practical implications for transgender care.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Brooke Friley
- Department of Communication & Media, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
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Campbell-Salome G, Barbour JB. Managing Uncertainty for and With Family: Communication Strategies and Motivations in Familial Uncertainty Management for Hereditary Cancer. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:1230-1245. [PMID: 35621326 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221090191] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The management of uncertainty is integral to health and illness. Individuals manage uncertainty about their health through communication enmeshed in family systems, but existing theorizing focuses on individuals without accounting for family processes. An iterative qualitative analysis of 42 dyadic, family interviews (N = 84) revealed (a) moments in the context of hereditary cancer that involved individual-centered and familial uncertainty appraisal and management, (b) family members' communication strategies to prompt relatives to engage familial uncertainty, and (c) the communicative (re)creation and negotiation of family models for uncertainty management. The findings illuminate tensions that individuals encounter across their lifespan as they appraise and manage uncertainty about hereditary cancer risks. This study extends uncertainty management theory to encompass familial uncertainty management and contributes insights useful for the management of hereditary cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemme Campbell-Salome
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Department of Population Health Sciences, Geisinger, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Joshua B Barbour
- Moody College of Communication, Department of Communication Studies, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Dibble KE, K. M. Donorfio L, Britner PA, Bellizzi KM. Perceptions and Care Recommendations from Previvors: Qualitative Analysis of Female BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers’ Experience with Genetic Testing and Counseling. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2022; 41:100989. [PMID: 35540028 PMCID: PMC9079684 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2022.100989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BRCA1/2-positive women listed negative and positive aspects of testing/counseling. A wide range of emotions concerning healthcare experiences existed post-testing. Improved patient-oriented care and communication was recommended.
Introduction It is estimated that 12.5% of women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 1.10% with ovarian cancer during their lifetime. Although less common, women with these mutations have a 11–72% increased risk of breast/ovarian cancers and are hereditary. Genetic testing/counseling presents the opportunity to identify carriers of BRCA1/2 genetic mutations before a cancer diagnosis. Methods Thirty-four BRCA1/2-positive women (with and without histories of breast/ovarian cancers) were recruited through online national support groups to gain a better understanding of their genetic testing/counseling perceptions and experiences. After confirming eligibility, they were invited to participate in either a telephone or webcam interview. Interview transcripts were analyzed using qualitative thematic text analysis and descriptive coding techniques. Results Six major themes emerged, capturing the perceptions and experiences of genetic testing/counseling for these women: 1) Emotional Reactions to Results and Genetic Counseling, 2) Future Recommendations, 3) Family Solidarity and Support, 4) Experiences with the Healthcare System, 5) Preventive Concerns and Decisions, and 6) Sources Affecting Perceived Risk. Two subthemes also emerged within the first theme, which are termed “Pre-vivor,” and “Testing Intuition.” Conclusions Participants indicated that genetic testing/counseling improvements would be helpful for women in this population surrounding quality care, including sensitivity training for healthcare professionals involved in testing/counseling, additional educational resources, and increased emotional and financial support. Although these recommendations may be beneficial, more widespread research with greater generalizability to disparate groups may be necessary prior to implementation.
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Impact of BRCA Status on Reproductive Decision-Making and Self-Concept: A Mixed-Methods Study Informing the Development of Tailored Interventions. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061494. [PMID: 35326645 PMCID: PMC8946482 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This mixed-methods study sought to deepen our understanding of self-concept and experiences in balancing cancer risk/reproductive decisions after learning of BRCA+ status. First, a quantitative survey of BRCA+ women (n = 505) examined the childbearing status, risk-reducing surgery, and self-concept. At the time of testing, 307/505 (60.8%) women were of reproductive age (<40 years-old), 340/505 (67.3%) had children, and 317/505 (62.8%) had undergone risk-reducing surgery. A younger age at the time of the testing was significantly associated with the decision to have children after learning BRCA+ status or undergoing risk-reducing surgery (p < 0.001). Compared to older women, BRCA+ women of reproductive age, exhibited a more negative self-concept with significantly higher vulnerability ratings (p < 0.01). Women with a cancer diagnosis exhibited a more negative mastery ratings and worse vulnerability ratings (p < 0.01) than women without a cancer history. Compared to childless counterparts, significantly higher vulnerability ratings were observed among BRCA+ women who had children before learning their BRCA status and/or undergoing risk-reducing surgery (p < 0.001). Subsequently, a subset of women (n = 40) provided in-depth interviews to explore their experiences in decision-making. The interviews provided insights into the effects of BRCA status on decisions regarding relationships, childbearing, cancer risk management, and communicating BRCA risk to children. Integrating quantitative and qualitative findings identifies targets for tailored interventions to enhance precision health for BRCA+ women of reproductive age.
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Rolf BA, Schneider JL, Amendola LM, Davis JV, Mittendorf KF, Schmidt MA, Jarvik GP, Wilfond BS, Goddard KAB, Hunter JE. Barriers to family history knowledge and family communication among LGBTQ+ individuals in the context of hereditary cancer risk assessment. J Genet Couns 2022; 31:230-241. [PMID: 34302314 PMCID: PMC8783924 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Openness about identity as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+) may cause strain on relationships between family members, which could lead to limited knowledge of cancer family history and reduced communication with family members. As a result, members of the LGBTQ+ community may have more difficulty accessing genetic counseling services for inherited cancer risk. We applied a mixed-methods approach to explore potential barriers to knowledge of cancer family history and family communication among participants of the Cancer Health Assessments Reaching Many (CHARM) study who self-identified as LGBTQ+. We assessed perceptions of family functioning and communication of genetic test results to family members using survey tools and supplemented these data with 20 in-depth interviews to further assess participant perspectives and experiences. LGBTQ+ participants were more likely to report unhealthy family functioning on the survey tool, and some interviewees endorsed that openness about their LGBTQ+ identity led to strained family relationships and reduced communication about their family history of cancer. Overall, this study identified barriers that may be faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community which could limit their ability to access genetic counseling services for inherited cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley A. Rolf
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Laura M. Amendola
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - James V. Davis
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR
| | - Kathleen F. Mittendorf
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR
| | - Mark A. Schmidt
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR
| | - Gail P. Jarvik
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Benjamin S. Wilfond
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children’s Hospital and Research Institute, Seattle, WA,Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Katrina A. B. Goddard
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR
| | - Jessica Ezzell Hunter
- Department of Translational and Applied Genomics, Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR
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Jeong J, Park B, Kim D, Kim J, Lee BY, Yoon J, Kim SW. Sex Differences in Attitudes Toward Marriage and Childbearing Based on the Assumption of Being BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers Among Young People. J Breast Cancer 2022; 25:233-243. [PMID: 35775702 PMCID: PMC9250881 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2022.25.e25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated changes in attitudes toward marriage and childbearing assuming a BRCA1/2 mutation carrier status among healthy, unmarried individuals in Korea. Methods A nationally representative sample of healthy, unmarried individuals aged 20–39 years was surveyed. A questionnaire on marriage and childbearing intentions was administered to the participants before and after providing them with information on BRCA1/2 mutation carriers’ breast and ovarian cancer risks and their autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. The participants were asked about their attitudes toward childbearing through preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). Results Of the participants who initially wanted to marry, the assumption that they or their partners had BRCA1/2 mutation caused 25.3% to no longer want to get married and 36.2% to change their attitude from wanting to bear children to no longer wanting them. Females were more likely than males to change their attitudes toward marriage and childbearing. The participants who had negative attitudes toward genetic testing were more likely to change their attitudes regarding marriage and childbearing than those who were favorable toward both disclosure and testing. More than 50% of the participants who did not want children were willing to bear children through PGD when it was assumed that they were BRCA mutation carriers. Conclusion On the assumption of being carriers, general, young, and healthy females were more likely than males to negatively change their attitudes toward marriage and childbearing. Public education on the implications of living with mutation carriers and reproductive options may be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Jeong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Daerim St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Boyoung Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dongwon Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiyoung Kim
- Department of Surgery, Daerim St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bom-Yi Lee
- Department of Surgery, Daerim St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Junghyun Yoon
- Department of Health Sciences, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Won Kim
- Department of Surgery, Daerim St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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Dean M, Campbell-Salome G, Rauscher EA. Engaging Men With BRCA-Related Cancer Risks: Practical Advice for BRCA Risk Management From Male Stakeholders. Am J Mens Health 2021; 14:1557988320924932. [PMID: 32449425 PMCID: PMC7249566 DOI: 10.1177/1557988320924932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Men are at risk for developing hereditary cancers such as breast, prostate, pancreatic, and melanoma due to a pathogenic germline variant in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. The purpose of this study was to identify and provide practical advice for men managing their BRCA-related cancer risks based on men's real-life experiences. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 25 men who either tested positive for a pathogenic variant in BRCA1/2 gene or who had an immediate family member who had tested positive for a pathogenic variant in BRCA1/2. A thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was completed utilizing the constant comparison method. Qualitative analysis produced three categories of participant advice for men who recently learned of their hereditary cancer risk. Specifically, participants advised the following: (a) know the basics, (b) engage in the family narrative, and (c) advocate for yourself. Results showed the need for men to know and understand their BRCA cancer risks and communicate that genetic risk information to their family members and practitioners. In particular, the findings stress the importance of addressing men's risks and medical management from a family-focused approach. Overall, because men are historically undereducated about their BRCA-related cancer risks, this practical advice serves as a first step for men managing BRCA-related cancer risks and may ultimately assist them in making preventive and screening health behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marleah Dean
- Department of Communication,
Collaborator Member of the Health Outcomes & Behavior Program, Moffitt Cancer
Center, the University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
- Marleah Dean, PhD, Associate Professor,
Department of Communication, Collaborator Member of the Health Outcomes &
Behavior Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, the University of South Florida, 4202
E. Fowler Ave, CIS 1040, Tampa, FL 33620, USA.
| | | | - Emily A. Rauscher
- Department of Communication, Huntsman
Cancer Institute, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Dean M, Tezak AL, Johnson S, Pierce JK, Weidner A, Clouse K, Pal T, Cragun D. Sharing genetic test results with family members of BRCA, PALB2, CHEK2, and ATM carriers. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:720-725. [PMID: 33455826 PMCID: PMC8005459 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored motivators and challenges/barriers to sharing personal genetic test results (GTR) with family members (FM). METHODS Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 62 women who had a pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variant in aBRCA, PALB2, CHEK2, or ATM gene. Selective qualitative data analysis focused on eliciting motivators and challenges/barriers identified by participants when sharing their GTR with FM. RESULTS Motivators to sharing personal GTR with FM included: health protection and prevention; moral obligation; decisional empowerment; familial ties; written resources; and contextualization for a familial cause for cancer. Challenges/barriers to family sharing included: concern for FM reactions; complexities of information; lack of closeness; perceived relevance; and emotional impact. CONCLUSIONS All motivators and challenges/barriers were identified across BRCA and non-BRCA carriers, demonstrating commonalities in family sharing of GTR among high- to moderate-penetrance hereditary BC (breast cancer) genes. Despite challenges/barriers, participants disclosed their GTR with most close FM, yet restrictions in communication and/or strain on the timing, manner of disclosing, and strategies used varied across certain FM. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS These findings offer healthcare providers and researchers preliminary practical implications for broadly improving family sharing interventions across P/LP variants in BC risk genes by demonstrating important elements to include in family sharing letters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marleah Dean
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
| | - Ann L Tezak
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in the Department of Medicine, Division of Genetic Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sabrina Johnson
- Department of Communication, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Joy K Pierce
- Cleveland Clinic, Indian River Hospital, Vero Beach, FL, USA
| | - Anne Weidner
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in the Department of Medicine, Division of Genetic Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kate Clouse
- Department of Nursing, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Tuya Pal
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in the Department of Medicine, Division of Genetic Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Deborah Cragun
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Timbs M. Psychosocial factors related to BRCA1/2 disclosures. Nursing 2021; 51:58-61. [PMID: 33759867 DOI: 10.1097/01.nurse.0000733956.47297.e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Patients who learn they carry breast cancer genes 1 and 2 (BRCA1/2) must decide if, when, and how they want to disclose this information to family members who may be affected. This article discusses the psychosocial factors that may influence patient decisions to disclose positive BRCA1/2 results to family members, as well as the role of nurses in educating and advocating for patients and their families.
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