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Journal of Genetic Counseling
Published in: Journal of Genetic Counseling 5/2018

01-10-2018 | Original Research

Psychosocial Impact of a Positive Gene Result for Asymptomatic Relatives at Risk of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Authors: Carissa Bonner, Catherine Spinks, Christopher Semsarian, Alex Barratt, Jodie Ingles, Kirsten McCaffery

Published in: Journal of Genetic Counseling | Issue 5/2018

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Abstract

Families with a history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) may be offered genetic testing in addition to clinical surveillance. Asymptomatic family members who are gene positive (silent gene carriers) represent a new group of “patients” who may not develop HCM, with little evidence available to assist clinical management. This study explored experiences of HCM genetic testing to identify potential benefits and harms. Thirty-two individuals previously offered genetic testing for HCM were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face or by phone, and transcribed audio-recordings were coded using framework analysis. Key themes were as follows: (1) helping the next generation, (2) misunderstanding risk, (3) discrepancy between actual/perceived impact. Participants described multiple psychological (shock, worry, uncertainty) and behavioural (career, sport, insurance, family planning) consequences, depending on perceived risk. Most considered only the benefits of genetic testing for children or grandchildren, but there were some cases of significant adverse impact. The interpretation of the HCM genetic test result is variable for silent gene carriers and can lead to psychological and behavioural changes. The impact of a positive gene result may be mitigated by increased clarity of the clinical consequences and efforts to ensure informed decision-making, highlighting even further the important role of cardiac genetic counselling.
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Metadata
Title
Psychosocial Impact of a Positive Gene Result for Asymptomatic Relatives at Risk of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors
Carissa Bonner
Catherine Spinks
Christopher Semsarian
Alex Barratt
Jodie Ingles
Kirsten McCaffery
Publication date
01-10-2018
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Genetic Counseling / Issue 5/2018
Print ISSN: 1059-7700
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3599
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10897-018-0218-8

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