Outcomes of Education and Counseling for BRCA1 or BRCA2 Testing

Women at increased risk for developing breast and/or ovarian cancer and their first degree relatives will be offered BRCA1/2 gene testing. This study proposes to evaluate psychological and behavioral aspects of their decision-making and the outcomes of the testing process. Knowledge and expectations will be assessed initially, followed by pre-test psychological assessment and an in person education and counseling session. Participants will be presented the choice of whether or not to undergo BRCA1/2 testing. Notification of test results will occur in person along with discussion of available surveillance options. Telephone interviews will assess psychological and behavioral outcome measures at 6 and/or twelve month time points. Aspects of this research endeavor have been designed to complement an NHGRI/NCI extramural consortium and an NHGRI/NCI intramural collaboration both of which will address various aspects of risk notification and follow-up for hereditary breast, ovarian and colon cancer.