Adaptation to Living With a BRCA l/2 Mutation in Carriers and Their Partners

Background:

• Women who have a BRCA1/2 gene mutation have a very high risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. They are also at increased risk of other developing other cancers. Male carriers are at increased risk for breast, prostate and other cancers. Testing for this mutation and living with this increased risk can be a source of stress for both people with the mutation and their partners. Researchers want to look at how well people adapt to living with this type of cancer risk over time.

Objectives:

• To see how women with the BRCA1/2 gene mutation and their partners adapt to the stress of long-term cancer risk.

Eligibility:

• Women at least 18 years of age who have a BRCA1/2 mutation, and their male or female partners.

Design:

• This study involves a one-time self-administered questionnaire. Participants will be recruited from local and national hereditary cancer support groups and cancer centers.
• There are two versions of the survey. One is for the woman with the BRCA1/2 gene mutation. The other is for her partner.
• The survey will ask about risk perception, cancer worry, risk-related stress, and coping and adaptation methods.
• Treatment will not be provided as part of this study.