The prophylactic mastectomy dilemma: A support group for women at high genetic risk for breast cancer Journal Article
| Authors: | Karp, J.; Brown, K. L.; Sullivan, M. D.; Massie, M. J. |
| Article Title: | The prophylactic mastectomy dilemma: A support group for women at high genetic risk for breast cancer |
| Abstract: | The goal of this pilot study was to test the usefulness of a six session psychoeducational support group for women at high genetic risk for breast cancer who were considering prophylactic mastectomy. The themes of the group sessions included overestimation of and anxiety about risk; desire for 'hard data'; the emotional impact of watching a mother die of breast cancer; concerns about spouse reactions; self- and body image; the decision-making process; and confusion over whom to trust in decision making. Both the participants and the multidisciplinary leaders concluded that as a supplement to individual counseling, a support group is a beneficial and cost-effective treatment modality. Recommendations for the optimal format for such a group are described. |
| Keywords: | medical decision making; breast cancer; mastectomy; patient education; prophylaxis; health promotion; anxiety; high risk population; genetic risk; body image; cost benefit analysis; genetic counseling; support group; prophylactic mastectomy; psychiatric evaluation; human; female; article; psychosocial support; education and health promotion; women at high genetic risk for breast cancer |
| Journal Title: | Journal of Genetic Counseling |
| Volume: | 8 |
| Issue: | 3 |
| ISSN: | 1059-7700 |
| Publisher: | John Wiley & Sons, Inc. |
| Date Published: | 1999-06-01 |
| Start Page: | 163 |
| End Page: | 173 |
| Language: | English |
| DOI: | 10.1023/a:1022834706495 |
| PROVIDER: | scopus |
| PUBMED: | 26142109 |
| DOI/URL: | |
| Notes: | Article -- Export Date: 16 August 2016 -- Source: Scopus |
