Facilitating Breast Cancer Genetic Counseling Through Information, Preparation and Referral: A Pilot Study Using the Cancer Information Service
Abstract
Previous research shows that women often lack knowledge regarding the kinds of information required to determine inherited risk as well as on the process and content of risk assessment/genetic testing. This lack of information leads them to feel unprepared for risk assessment/genetic testing, if they choose to seek it. This pilot study developed an enhanced intervention to increase a woman's knowledge of: 1) the factors that determine a genetic predisposition to breast/ovarian cancer, 2) personal family history and other risk factors, 3) the benefits and drawbacks of genetic testing for breast/ovarian cancer, 4) the range of surveillance and preventive behaviors available, and 5) the actual process of risk assessment/genetic testing. Participants were 279 women who contacted the Atlantic Region of the National Cancer Institute's (NCI) Cancer Information Service (CIS) requesting information about risk for breast/ovarian cancer and/or information about risk assessment services and genetic testing. Women were randomly assigned to either the standard or enhanced intervention. The study, comparing the standard and enhanced interventions, tested the effectiveness of the CIS in increasing a woman's knowledge of inherited breast/ovarian cancer and the process of risk assessment/genetic testing as well as her sense of preparation and intention to pursue such services.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA411050
Entities
People
- Suzanne M. Miller
Organizations
- Fox Chase Cancer Center