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An interactive computer program can effectively educate patients about genetic testing for breast cancer
M J Green1, B B Biesecker, A M McInerney
1Department of Humanities, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, USA. mjg15@psu.edu
American Journal of Medical Genetics
|September 20, 2001
Summary
Interactive computer programs effectively educate women on breast cancer genetics. Combined with genetic counseling, this approach influences decisions about genetic testing, improving patient understanding and choices.
Area of Science:
- Medical Genetics
- Health Education
- Cancer Prevention
Background:
- Genetic testing for breast cancer susceptibility is increasing.
- Effective pre-testing education is crucial for informed decision-making.
- Alternative educational methods are needed to supplement traditional genetic counseling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of face-to-face genetic counseling versus an interactive computer program for breast cancer genetics education.
- To assess the impact of these educational methods on participants' knowledge and intent to undergo genetic testing.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 72 women with a family history of breast cancer.
- Comparison of three groups: genetic counselor education, interactive computer program plus counseling, and a control group.
- Pre- and post-intervention assessments of knowledge and intent regarding genetic testing.
Main Results:
- The computer group (96%) and counselor group (92%) showed significantly higher knowledge scores than the control group (74%).
- The interactive computer program, when adjusted for demographics, yielded equivalent knowledge scores to traditional counseling.
- Both educational interventions, when combined with counseling, significantly reduced the likelihood of intending to undergo genetic testing (from 69% to 44%).
Conclusions:
- Interactive computer programs are a viable tool for educating patients about breast cancer genetics.
- Integrating computer-based education with genetic counseling can effectively influence patients' intentions regarding genetic testing.
- These findings support the use of technology to enhance genetic testing education and decision-making processes.
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