Genetic counselling of young women with breast cancer for Li –Fraumeni syndrome: a nationwide survey on the experiences and attitudes of genetics professionals

This study aims to gain more knowledge on the attitudes and experiences among genetics professionals regarding the timing and content of genetic counselling of young breast cancer patients for Li –Fraumeni syndrome (LFS). We conducted a nationwide online survey among genetics professionals who provide cancer genetic counselling in the Netherlands. Fifty-seven professionals completed the questionnaire (response rate overall 54%, clinical geneticists 70%). Most respondents reported that they discuss the option ofTP53 genetic testing —simultaneously withBRCA 1/2—during the initial counselling visit, especially in case of referral for treatment-focused genetic counselling. There was a general consensus about ten information items that should be discussed during counselling. Sixty-one percent of genetics professionals did not encounter difficulties in prov iding genetic counselling for LFS, but a substantial minority (29%) did. This study offers valuable insight, which will be useful for clinical practice. Studies which address young breast cancer patients’ attitudes and preferences regarding the timing and content of counselling are warranted to fu rther determine the most appropriate genetic counselling strategy for these women.
Source: Familial Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research