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Genetic Testing for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Predisposition: Cancer Burden and Responsibility

Claire Foster

Psychology Research Group & Section of Cancer Genetics, The Institute of Cancer Research & Royal Marsden NHS Trust, UK, cfoster{at}icr.ac.uk

Maggie Watson

Psychology Research Group & Section of Cancer Genetics, The Institute of Cancer Research & Royal Marsden NHS Trust, UK

Clare Moynihan

Psychology Research Group & Section of Cancer Genetics, The Institute of Cancer Research & Royal Marsden NHS Trust, UK

Audrey Ardern-jones

Psychology Research Group & Section of Cancer Genetics, The Institute of Cancer Research & Royal Marsden NHS Trust, UK

Rosalind Eeles

Psychology Research Group & Section of Cancer Genetics, The Institute of Cancer Research & Royal Marsden NHS Trust, UK

The purpose of this study was to explore experiences of cancer in the family and motivation for predictive genetic testing among women at increased risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer due to their family history. Fifteen women were interviewed prior to receiving their genetic test results. A grounded theory approach was adopted to analyse the interview transcripts. The findings indicated that experiences of cancer in the family play an important role in formulating beliefs about one’s own risk and motivation for predictive genetic testing. A sense of responsibility for one’s own health and the need to take action either to prevent cancer or detect cancer at as early a stage as possible, as well as a feeling of responsibility towards children and other family members was apparent. The findings raise the question of whether there is any real choice available to these women and whether there is a negative impact on family dynamics.

Key Words: cancer burden • genetic testing • responsibility

Journal of Health Psychology, Vol. 7, No. 4, 469-484 (2002)
DOI: 10.1177/1359105302007004627
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 Qual Health ResHome page
L. d'Agincourt-Canning
Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Responsibility and Choice
Qual Health Res, January 1, 2006; 16(1): 97 - 118.
[Abstract] [PDF]