The development of a psychoeducational intervention for women living with an increased risk of breast cancer.
Research has shown a widespread need for written information on topics related to familial risk of breast cancer amongst women who have been living with an increased risk of the disease for several years. This article describes the development of a psychoeducational intervention designed to meet the needs of these women. Following a review of the literature and existing information resources, a multidisciplinary group developed a written information pack consisting of scientific and psychosocial (self-help) information with the aim of improving knowledge and reducing cancer worry. The information pack has been evaluated by seven independent health professionals and piloted on eight women at increased risk of breast cancer. Aspects of readability and presentation have been considered. The results of a randomised controlled trial of the intervention, which will inform the current provision of clinical services for these women, will be reported elsewhere.
Appleton
Sally
S
Cancer Research UK, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. Sally.Appleton@email.com
Garcia-Minaur
Sixto
S
Porteous
Mary
M
Campbell
Joyce
J
Anderson
Elaine
E
Watson
Maggie
M
Cull
Ann
A
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D003479:Curriculum; D004522:Educational Status; D005246:Feedback; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016730:Program Development / Q000379:methods*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011932:Reading; D012307:Risk Factors; D012606:Scotland; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013664:Teaching Materials / Q000592:standards; D014930:Women / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology