title: Cognitive and behavioural effects of genetic testing for thrombophilia.
abstract: Very few studies have examined the impact of genetic testing for thrombophilia on health behaviours, perceptions of control over risk factors for venous thromboembolism, or health services utilization. Through a postal questionnaire we compared first degree relatives with thrombophilia (carriers) most of whom had received counseling, to those without (non-carriers) with respect to: (a) perceived causes of venous thromboembolism; (b) perceived control; (c) health behaviour changes; and (d) use of health care services. 44/51 for carriers and 26/47 for non-carriers completed questionnaires. Carriers were more likely to believe their risk of venous thromboembolism 'is a little higher' or 'much higher' than average (p < 0.001) but some continued to believe their risk 'is the same as' or 'lower than' average. 16%-32% of carriers did not recognize major risk factors. Stress, worry, or depression, negative attitude, and over-exertion were over-interpreted as risks. 37.2% did not appreciate that thrombophilia increases risk. Behaviour changes were uncommon. There is a need for research on education and strategies to improve knowledge in thrombophilia carriers.
authors.affiliation: University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Heshka
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Palleschi
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Brehaut
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Rutberg
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Etchegary
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Langlois
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Rodger
authors.forename: P S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Wells
mesh_terms: D003071:Cognition; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D019851:Thrombophilia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics