Patient preferences of decision-making in the context of genetic testing for breast cancer risk.
OBJECTIVE
We conducted a study on women's preferred physician involvement in the decision to obtain genetic testing for breast cancer risk.


METHODS
Women from a primary care physician network completed a telephone survey and a written baseline questionnaire.


RESULTS
The majority preferred to make up their own minds. Predictors of leaving the decision to providers were less education, less knowledge, and higher external health locus of control. Trust in one's physician mediated the effect of health locus of control on decision method.


CONCLUSIONS
Physicians will face requests from low-risk women and will need effective communication skills to inform women about the test.
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue North, MP900, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
Almut W
AW
Helmes
Deborah J
DJ
Bowen
Jürgen
J
Bengel
D000328:Adult; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D005817:Genetic Counseling / Q000523:psychology; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010358:Patient Participation; D017060:Patient Satisfaction
Empirical Approach; Genetics and Reproduction