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Evaluation of Group Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer

  • Original Research
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Journal of Genetic Counseling

Abstract

As demand for genetic counseling regarding hereditary cancer continues to grow, more efficient methods of providing this service must be explored. In this pilot study, group genetic counseling was offered to two different cohorts of women seeking genetic counseling for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer. Seven group sessions, designed to cover all aspects of an individual genetic counseling appointment, were conducted. Although patients were receptive to group genetic counseling, a significant proportion chose individual counseling when given the option. Advantages of group genetic counseling include shared experience and increased efficiency. Disadvantages include increased frustration at not being eligible for genetic testing, group influence on decision-making, privacy concerns, increased need for follow-up, and difficulty booking group appointments. Overall, the level of patient satisfaction with group genetic counseling was similar to that of individual counseling. The results of this pilot study suggest that further research is needed to determine whether group genetic counseling is an acceptable alternative to individual counseling.

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Acknowledgements

This work was partially funded through a grant from the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, BC/Yukon division. The authors would like to thank the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and the Hereditary Cancer Program for making this study possible. We would also like to acknowledge Sally Haugen for her hard work in the organization of appointments. Finally, we would like to express our gratitude to the patients who have contributed their time and energy to research conducted through the Hereditary Cancer Program of the BC Cancer Agency.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Hereditary Cancer Program, BC Cancer Agency, Mail Box #614, 750 West Broadway, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 1H5, Canada

    Yolanda Ridge, Mary McCullum, Cheryl Portigal-Todd & Jenna Scott

  2. London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada

    Karen Panabaker

  3. Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

    Barbara McGillivray

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  1. Yolanda Ridge
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  2. Karen Panabaker
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Ridge, Y., Panabaker, K., McCullum, M. et al. Evaluation of Group Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer. J Genet Counsel 18, 87–100 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10897-008-9189-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10897-008-9189-5

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