Voluntary disclosure of BRCA1 mutation test results

Genet Test. 2002 Summer;6(2):89-92. doi: 10.1089/10906570260199339.

Abstract

This study assessed the probability that individuals tested for a BRCA1 gene mutation share their test results with family members, co-workers, and insurers. Members of a large kindred known to be at-risk for carrying a BRCA1 gene mutation were tested and they learned their results from a genetic counselor. During a follow-up interview, 4 months later, subjects were asked with whom they had shared their results. Respondents were most likely to have communicated results to family members, followed by co-workers, and insurers. Carrier status affected their willingness to disclose results to insurers. High rates of disclosure to family members should promote awareness of hereditary cancer risk. Selective disclosure to co-workers and insurers may promote information asymmetries that could affect employment and insurance markets.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Costs and Cost Analysis
  • Family
  • Female
  • Genes, BRCA1*
  • Genetic Counseling
  • Humans
  • Insurance, Health / economics
  • Insurance, Life / economics
  • Male
  • Mutation*
  • Nuclear Family
  • Probability
  • Truth Disclosure*