BRCA1/2 predictive testing and gender: uptake, motivation and psychological characteristics
L Denayer1, A Boogaerts, K Philippe
1Psychosocial Genetics Unit, Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
Genetic Counseling (Geneva, Switzerland)
|February 19, 2010
Summary
Men undergoing BRCA1/2 predictive testing are motivated by concern for daughters, unlike women. Uptake of genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer differs significantly by gender and family cancer type.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Oncology
- Psychology
Background:
- Limited data exists on male uptake of BRCA1/2 predictive testing.
- Understanding gender differences in genetic testing motivations and psychological profiles is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender differences in BRCA1/2 predictive testing uptake.
- To explore motivations and psychological characteristics associated with testing in males versus females.
- To identify factors influencing testing decisions in families with hereditary breast cancer.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of a 10-year cohort (1998-2007) at the Center for Human Genetics, Leuven.
- Comparison of demographic, psychological (IES, SCL-90, UCL), and motivational data between male and female testers.
- Analysis of testing uptake based on family origin (BRCA1/2 status) and descendant status.
Main Results:
- Males were older than females at testing; men reported lower breast cancer-related distress.
- Men's primary motivation was concern for daughters; a third cited child-bearing decisions.
- Females showed higher testing uptake, particularly in BRCA2 families; uptake in descendants was predicted by gender and age, not BRCA status.
Conclusions:
- Gender significantly influences BRCA1/2 testing motivations and uptake, with males prioritizing familial concerns.
- Psychological profiles suggest self-selected, psychologically resilient individuals undergoing testing.
- Testing uptake is complex, influenced by gender, age, family history, and reproductive decisions.
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