Prognostic factors for hereditary cancer distress six months after BRCA1/2 or HNPCC genetic susceptibility testing.
Publication year
2007Source
European Journal of Cancer, 43, 1, (2007), pp. 71-7ISSN
Publication type
Article / Letter to editor
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Organization
Psychiatry
Journal title
European Journal of Cancer
Volume
vol. 43
Issue
iss. 1
Page start
p. 71
Page end
p. 7
Subject
DCN 1: Perception and Action; EBP 1: Determinants in Health and Disease; NCEBP 9: Mental healthAbstract
This study explored predictors for hereditary cancer distress six months after genetic susceptibility testing for a known familial BRCA1/2 or HNPCC related mutation, in order to gain insight into aspects relevant for the identification of individuals needing additional psychosocial support. Coping, illness representations, experiences with cancer in relatives and family system characteristics were assessed in 271 applicants for genetic testing before result disclosure. Hereditary cancer distress was assessed prospectively up to six months after disclosure. Regression analysis revealed that the pretest level of distress, complicated grief, the number of affected first-degree relatives and strong emotional illness representations were factors that best explained hereditary cancer distress. Other significant predictors were illness coherence, passive coping, distraction seeking, being aged <13 years when a parent was affected by cancer and family communication. Individuals who may benefit from additional support may be identified before result disclosure using a short instrument assessing the relevant aspects.
This item appears in the following Collection(s)
- Academic publications [238586]
- Faculty of Medical Sciences [90409]
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