Colorectal Cancer in the Family: Psychosocial Distress and Social Issues in the Years Following Genetic Counselling

• Main Authors: Bleiker Eveline MA, Menko Fred H, Kluijt Irma, Taal Babs G, Gerritsma Miranda A, Wever Lidwina DV, Aaronson Neil K
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2007-06-01
• Series: Hereditary Cancer in Clinical Practice
• Subjects: colorectal cancer; HNPCC; genetic counselling; psychosocial impact
• Online Access: http://www.hccpjournal.com/content/5/2/59

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>This study examined: (1) levels of cancer-specific distress more than one year after genetic counselling for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC); (2) associations between sociodemographic, clinical and psychosocial factors and levels of distress; (3) the impact of genetic counselling on family relationships, and (4) social consequences of genetic counselling.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>In this cross-sectional study, individuals who had received genetic counselling for HNPCC during 1986–1998 completed a self-report questionnaire by mail.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>116 individuals (81% response rate) completed the questionnaire, on average 4 years after the last counselling session. Of all respondents, 6% had clinically significant levels of cancer-specific distress (Impact of Event Scale, IES). Having had contact with a professional psychosocial worker for cancer risk in the past 10 years was significantly associated with higher levels of current cancer specific distress. Only a minority of the counselees reported any adverse effects of genetic counselling on: communication about genetic counselling with their children (9%), family relationships (5%), obtaining life insurance (8%), choice or change of jobs (2%), and obtaining a mortgage (2%).</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>On average, four years after genetic counselling for HNPCC, only a small minority of counselled individuals reports clinically significant levels of distress, or significant family or social problems.</p>