A multicenter study of supportive-expressive group therapy for women with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations.
BACKGROUND
Women with a BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation experience significant challenges. These include decision-making regarding surgical options and notification to offspring and family, along with a sense of isolation, which may lead to psychological and emotional distress. The current study developed, standardized, and conducted preliminary testing of a supportive-expressive group therapy intervention designed to address these challenges.


METHODS
Seventy women with a BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation recruited from familial cancer risk clinics participated in 12 sessions of supportive-expressive group therapy that lasted 6 months. Before and after measures of psychosocial functioning, knowledge, and surveillance/surgery activities were completed.


RESULTS
Sixty-seven women completed the intervention. Significant improvements were observed in psychosocial functioning: cancer worries (P = 0.005), anxiety (P = 0.033), and depression (P = 0.015). Knowledge level and surveillance levels were high at baseline and there were no significant changes postintervention. A significant number of women made decisions concerning prophylactic surgery (oophorectomy/mastectomy) during and after the intervention.


CONCLUSIONS
The feasibility of a supportive-expressive group for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers was demonstrated. Findings from the study are consistent with an effective intervention. However, further research is required using a randomized controlled study design.
Behavioral Sciences and Health Research Division, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. mesplen@uhnres.utoronto.ca
Mary Jane
MJ
Esplen
Jon
J
Hunter
Molyn
M
Leszcz
Ellen
E
Warner
Steven
S
Narod
Kelly
K
Metcalfe
Gord
G
Glendon
Kate
K
Butler
Alexander
A
Liede
Mary Anne
MA
Young
Stephanie
S
Kieffer
Lisa
L
DiProspero
Ellen
E
Irwin
Jiahui
J
Wong
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D019398:Genes, BRCA1; D024522:Genes, BRCA2; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009154:Mutation; D010051:Ovarian Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000523:psychology*; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group