A multicenter study of supportive-expressive group therapy for women with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations.
Esplen MJ,
Hunter J,
Leszcz M,
Warner E,
Narod S,
Metcalfe K,
Glendon G,
Butler K,
Liede A,
Young MA,
Kieffer S,
DiProspero L,
Irwin E,
Wong J.
Behavioral Sciences and Health Research Division, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. mesplen@uhnres.utoronto.ca
BACKGROUND: Women with a BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation experience significant challenges. These include decision-making regarding surgical options and notification to offspring and family, along with a sense of isolation, which may lead to psychological and emotional distress. The current study developed, standardized, and conducted preliminary testing of a supportive-expressive group therapy intervention designed to address these challenges. METHODS: Seventy women with a BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation recruited from familial cancer risk clinics participated in 12 sessions of supportive-expressive group therapy that lasted 6 months. Before and after measures of psychosocial functioning, knowledge, and surveillance/surgery activities were completed. RESULTS: Sixty-seven women completed the intervention. Significant improvements were observed in psychosocial functioning: cancer worries (P = 0.005), anxiety (P = 0.033), and depression (P = 0.015). Knowledge level and surveillance levels were high at baseline and there were no significant changes postintervention. A significant number of women made decisions concerning prophylactic surgery (oophorectomy/mastectomy) during and after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The feasibility of a supportive-expressive group for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers was demonstrated. Findings from the study are consistent with an effective intervention. However, further research is required using a randomized controlled study design. (c) 2004 American Cancer Society
PMID: 15478194 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]