Psychosocial aspects of cancer genetics: Women at high risk for breast andovarian cancer

In the past five years the advent of cancer genetic testing has created con cern about the negative psychosocial sequelae of genetic counseling and tes ting. Research indicates that the women most likely to seek genetic testing are anxious about carrying a gene mutation and developing breast cancer. W omen who are at high risk have poor knowledge and the expectation of being a gene-mutation carrier. High levels of distress have been shown to interfe re with decision-making about genetic testing. Further, individuals who dec line genetic testing may be at increased risk for depressive symptoms even more than those who are found to be gene-mutation carriers. There is great concern that inappropriate candidates will seek genetic testing. Improved e ducation and access to genetic counseling are essential to help women make appropriate decisions about genetic testing. Strategies for the prevention of breast and ovarian cancer are explored, and methods to reduce the advers e psychosocial effects of decision-making about genetic testing and prevent ive treatment strategies are suggested. Semin. Surg. Oncol. 18:333-338, 200 0. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.