Improving our model of cascade testing for hereditary cancer risk by leveraging patient peer support: A concept report Journal Article


Authors: O’Neill, S. C.; Hamilton, J. G.; Conley, C. C.; Peshkin, B. N.; Sacca, R.; McDonnell, G. A.; Isaacs, C.; Robson, M. E.; Tercyak, K. P.
Article Title: Improving our model of cascade testing for hereditary cancer risk by leveraging patient peer support: A concept report
Abstract: Consensus and evidence suggest that cascade testing is critical to achieve the promise of cancer genetic testing. However, barriers to cascade testing include effective family communication of genetic risk information and family members’ ability to cope with genetic risk. These barriers are further complicated by the developmental needs of unaffected family members during critical windows for family communication and adaptation. Peer support could address these barriers. We provide two illustrative examples of ongoing BRCA1/2-related clinical trials that apply a peer support model to improve family communication and functioning. Peer support can augment currently available genetic services to facilitate adjustment to and effective use of cancer genetic risk information. Importantly, this scalable approach can address the presence of cancer risk within families across multiple developmental stages. This applies a family-centered perspective that accommodates all potentially at-risk relatives. This peer support model can be further applied to emerging topics in clinical genetics to expand reach and impact. © 2021, The Author(s).
Keywords: intervention; family communication; cascade testing; peer coaching
Journal Title: Hereditary Cancer in Clinical Practice
Volume: 19
ISSN: 1731-2302
Publisher: BioMed Central Ltd.  
Date Published: 2021-09-26
Start Page: 40
Language: English
DOI: 10.1186/s13053-021-00198-7
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC8474818
PUBMED: 34565430
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 2 November 2021 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Mark E Robson
    676 Robson
  2. Jada Gabrielle Hamilton
    111 Hamilton
  3. Rosalba Sacca
    7 Sacca