BRCA mutation carriers' perceptions on postmenopausal hormone therapy: An Italian study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genetics
• Women's Health

Background:

• Hormone therapy (HT) is a treatment option for menopausal symptoms.
• BRCA mutation carriers (BRCAmc) face increased risks for certain cancers, influencing their treatment decisions.
• Understanding perceptions of HT among BRCAmc is crucial for personalized care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare perceptions of postmenopausal hormone therapy (HT) between BRCA mutation carriers (BRCAmc) and women without genetic mutations.
• To assess knowledge regarding the benefits and risks of HT in the context of BRCA mutations.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based study was conducted.
• 83 BRCAmc and 89 controls (women without genetic mutations) participated.
• Perceptions were measured using specific questions and Likert scales.

Main Results:

• Past and present HT use was more frequent in controls (p=0.01).
• Perceived benefits and adverse effects of HT did not significantly differ between groups.
• BRCAmc showed a greater fear of breast cancer and overestimated oncological impacts of HT.

Conclusions:

• BRCAmc demonstrate limited knowledge of HT effects, potentially overestimating risks and underestimating benefits.
• Enhanced patient education is recommended for BRCAmc to support informed HT decisions, particularly before risk-reducing surgeries.