[ PRINT ] [ Printing FAQ ] About OncoLink Editorial Board Sponsors Help See Today's OncoTip Usage Statistics Virtual Classroom Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute "Confronting Cancer Through Art" is an exhibition by people whose lives have been touched by cancer. This week we are featuring artwork by: Jacqueline Kniewasser Pontypool, Ontario Visit the Children's Art Gallery This week's artwork was donated by a pediatric cancer patient who received treatment for cancer at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Psychological Issues in Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer Susceptibility Authors: Lerman, C. and Croyle Reprinted with Permission From: Archives of Internal Medicine, 154:609-616. Funded by AHCPR Grant HS06660 From No. 176, July 1994 Research Activities of the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, p. 28 Copyright © 1994, Archives of Internal Medicine Susceptibility Although hereditary breast cancer (HBC) accounts for only about 5-10% of all breast cancers, up to 25% of early-onset cases are attributable to HBC. One of the greatest potential benefits of genetic tests for breast cancer susceptibility is the identification of young women who may benefit from mammogram surveillance initiated at an earlier age and/or on a more frequent basis than usual. Previous studies suggest that notifying persons about their risks for cancer can have serious negative psychological consequences that may impair adherence to prevention recommendations, either because of denial or fear of discovering cancer. This poses unique challenges for genetic counselors who must inform patients of their breast cancer risk based on genetic testing results, according to the authors. They recommend that genetic counselors provide patients with pretest counseling, ensure the patient's informed consent before testing, be aware of and minimize adverse psychological consequences, provide or arrange for followup care, and promote breast cancer prevention and surveillance techniques. The authors also caution that genetic information has implications, not only for the individuals who undergo testing but also for their partners, children, siblings, and parents and followup support should be extended to family members as well.

GENERAL DISCLAIMER OncoLink is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.

For further information, consult the Editors at: editors@oncolink.upenn.edu