Decision Making After BRCA Genetic Testing

The purpose of this study was to evaluate women who have completed hereditary cancer risk assessment and BRCA genetic testing to determine if they considered themselves prepared to proceed with decision making regarding cancer screening and prevention options. Levels of decisional conflict were explored, as was their preference for information delivery. The prospective, descriptive survey was conducted at a breast and clinical genetics clinic at a comprehensive cancer center in the northeastern United States. Twenty-seven female participants completed the Preparation for Decision Making scale, Decisional Conflict Scale, and a demographic questionnaire. Scores were consistent with high levels of preparation for decision making and low decisional conflict. The face-to-face approach was the preferred method for information delivery. Subgroup analysis demonstrated a difference in the measured objectives based on cancer status but not based on BRCA status. The current information delivery approach is meeting the decision-making needs of women considered to be at increased risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.