From observation to intervention: development of a psychoeducational intervention to increase uptake of BRCA genetic counseling among high-risk breast cancer survivors.
We describe the development of a psychoeducational intervention (PEI) to increase uptake of genetic counseling targeted to high-risk breast cancer survivors. Based on previous research, scientific literature, and a review of cancer education websites, we identified potential PEI content. We then assessed the initial acceptability and preference of two booklets of identical content but different layouts, by presenting the booklets to individuals with a personal or family history of breast cancer (n = 57). The preferred booklet was evaluated by two focus groups of ten breast cancer patients who had not attended genetic counseling. The booklet was refined based on participants' feedback at each stage. Focus group participants generally found the booklet visually appealing, informative, and helpful, but some thought that it was too long. Final changes were made based on learner verification principles of attraction, comprehension, cultural acceptability, and persuasion. This project produced an interventional tool to present key constructs that may facilitate decision making about risk-appropriate genetic counseling uptake among high-risk breast cancer survivors. The process described for creating, testing, and adapting materials from a patient perspective can be used for developing other PEIs. This newly developed, unique PEI can be used in many clinical settings.
Health Outcomes and Behavior Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA, susan.vadaparampil@moffitt.org.
Susan T
ST
Vadaparampil
Teri L
TL
Malo
Kelli M
KM
Nam
Alison
A
Nelson
Cara Z
CZ
de la Cruz
Gwendolyn P
GP
Quinn
D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D019398:Genes, BRCA1; D005817:Genetic Counseling / Q000523:psychology*; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006801:Humans; D010174:Pamphlets; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology*