Risk assessment, genetic counseling, and genetic testing for BRCA-related cancer: systematic review to update the U.S. preventive services task force recommendation

Nelson HD, Fu R, Goddard K, Mitchell JP, Okinaka-Hu L, Pappas M, Zakher B
Record ID 32014000519
English
Authors' objectives: To review new evidence on the benefits and harms of risk assessment, genetic counseling, and genetic testing for BRCA-related cancer in women for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
Authors' recommendations: Risk assessment using familial risk models to guide referrals is accurate. Genetic counseling reduces distress, improves risk perception, and reduces intention for testing. Genetic testing provides risk estimates for specific populations depending on test results. A true negative test indicates no increased risk for breast cancer. The effectiveness of intensive screening is not known, but it increases false-positive results and procedures. Tamoxifen and raloxifene reduce risk for breast cancer, but have adverse effects. Risk-reducing mastectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy are effective in reducing breast and ovarian cancer. Several evidence gaps remain and additional studies are necessary to better inform practice.
Details
Project Status: Completed
Year Published: 2014
English language abstract: An English language summary is available
Publication Type: Not Assigned
Country: United States
MeSH Terms
  • Female
  • Genes, BRCA1
  • Genetic Testing
  • Genetic Counseling
  • Breast Neoplasms
Contact
Organisation Name: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Contact Address: Center for Outcomes and Evidence Technology Assessment Program, 540 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD 20850, USA. Tel: +1 301 427 1610; Fax: +1 301 427 1639;
Contact Name: martin.erlichman@ahrq.hhs.gov
Contact Email: martin.erlichman@ahrq.hhs.gov
Copyright: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
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