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Open Access 01-02-2017 | Original Research

Identifying Needs: a Qualitative Study of women’s Experiences Regarding Rapid Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer in the DNA BONus Study

Authors: Mirjam Tonheim Augestad, Hildegunn Høberg-Vetti, Cathrine Bjorvatn, Ragnhild Johanne Tveit Sekse

Published in: Journal of Genetic Counseling | Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer is increasingly being offered in newly diagnosed breast and ovarian cancer patients. This genetic information may influence treatment decisions. However, there are some concerns that genetic testing offered in an already vulnerable situation might be an extra burden to these women. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of women who had been offered and accepted genetic testing when newly diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer. Four semi-structured focus-group interviews were conducted with 17 women recruited from a Norwegian multicenter study. The material was condensed, and conventional qualitative analysis was used to identify patterns in the participants’ descriptions. Three core themes were identified: 1) being “beside oneself” 2) altruism and ethical dilemmas 3) the need for support and counselling to assist the decision process. The present study indicates that women who are offered genetic testing when newly diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer want a consultation with a health professional. Personalized support and counselling might empower women to improve their ability to manage and comprehend this overwhelming situation, and find meaning in this experience.

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Title: Identifying Needs: a Qualitative Study of women’s Experiences Regarding Rapid Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer in the DNA BONus Study
Authors: Mirjam Tonheim Augestad
Hildegunn Høberg-Vetti
Cathrine Bjorvatn
Ragnhild Johanne Tveit Sekse
Publication date: 01-02-2017
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Genetic Counseling / Issue 1/2017
Print ISSN: 1059-7700
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3599
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10897-016-9996-z

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Identifying Needs: a Qualitative Study of women’s Experiences Regarding Rapid Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer in the DNA BONus Study

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