A literature review of the psychological impact of genetic testing on breast cancer patients

Abstract

Objective: Easier access and increased awareness results in more referral for genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer in healthy at-risk women and breast cancer patients. To investigate the psychological impact of genetic testing on breast cancer patients, literature pertaining to this group was reviewed.

Method: Medline and PsychInfo databases were searched over the period 1995-2004 for studies aimed at breast cancer patients referred for genetic testing. Qualitative and quantitative psychological outcome measures were identified.

Results: Eight papers were identified focusing on women affected by breast cancer and undergoing genetic counseling and DNA testing.

Conclusion: Genetic testing does not lead to an increase in psychological distress in breast cancer patients. However, a recent breast cancer diagnosis adds to general and cancer-specific distress prior to genetic counseling and after DNA test disclosure.

Practice implications: Clinicians need to be aware of possible high psychological distress and additional counseling needs of recently diagnosed breast cancer patients taking part in genetic testing. Further research should focus on patients who decline genetic counseling or receive an inconclusive test result, including age upon and time since diagnosis.