Understanding intention to test for genetic breast and ovarian cancer risk: A path model

Although the cause of cancer is still relatively unknown, research has been able to report a relationship between genetics and developing cancer among certain high risk groups. Two genes in particular have been associated with breast cancer and ovarian cancer. These genes are known as BRCA1 and BRCA2. A blood test is now available to identify whether an individual carries a mutated BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 gene(s); increasing one's risk to developing early onset breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer during one's lifetime. Benefits from BRCA testing results include confirming susceptibility suspicion, increasing decision making regarding preventive treatment, making decisions regarding marriage and family issues, motivating oneself to adopt a healthy lifestyle, and contributing to research. Some studies, however, have reported "psychological distress" as a consequence of receiving BRCA testing results. Variables from the Health Belief Model were combined with other variables to form a path model to predict the intention to test for genetic breast and ovarian cancer risk. To test the proposed path model, self-report questionnaires were collected from 137 women of various ages, ethnicities, religious beliefs, educational, income, and marital status in Los Angeles County. Data assessment reflected self-reports regarding perceived severity of a cancer diagnosis, perceived susceptibility of being diagnosed with cancer, perceived benefits of being tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations, perceived barriers of being tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations, level of cancer worry, anticipation of psychological consequences after receiving test results, and level of accurate knowledge regarding BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing. In addition, preventive health behaviors were also assessed for post-hoc analysis. Statistical analyses revealed significant findings among five of the six predicted hypotheses. In short, the proposed path model significantly predicts one's decision making process towards the intention to test for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing. Psychological screening and counseling is suggested for all individuals considering BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing.