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Lessons Learned From the Family Gene Toolkit

Development of a Family Communication and Decision-support Intervention for Women That Carry a BRCA1 or a BRCA2 Mutation and Their At-Risk Female Family Members

Status
Completed
Phases
NA
Study type
Interventional
Source
ClinicalTrials.gov
Registry ID
NCT02154633
Acronym
FGT
Enrollment
13
Registered
2014-06-03
Start date
2010-09-30
Completion date
2017-03-31
Last updated
2020-02-25

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

Non-tested Female Family Members, Women With BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 Mutation

Brief summary

Mutations in the BRCA1/2 genes are the primary cause of hereditary breast/ovarian cancer syndrome. Genetic testing identifies mutation carriers and enables them to manage their cancer risk (i.e. chemoprevention, risk-reducing surgery, or intensive surveillance). However, uptake of genetic testing among at-risk individuals is low, implying that information about the disease and genetic testing is not being communicated effectively among family members. Mutation carriers are distressed about disclosing test results, while their relatives do not understand the implications of a positive test result for their own health. Thus, interventions that support family communication about genetic risk, and address psychological distress of family members could contribute to more effective management of hereditary breast/ovarian cancer. The project aims to develop a family communication and decision-support intervention to 1) increase family communication about BRCA1/2 mutations; 2) reduce psychological distress associated with these mutations; and 3) increase informed decision-making regarding uptake of BRCA1/2 testing among at-risk family members. Focus groups with mutation carriers and at-risk relatives will inform the refinement of the intervention, as well as timing and mode of delivery. Two group, pre-post test study with a new sample of mutation carriers and family members will be used to test the feasibility, acceptability, and effect of the intervention.

Interventions

BEHAVIORALFamily Gene Toolkit

Psychosocial educational presentations over the Internet (Webinars) Two Webinars lasting 1 hour each One follow-up phone call lasting 20 minutes Webinars and phone calls are delivered to one mutation carrier and one non-tested relative Genetic counselors and nurses with master's degree and experienced in oncology deliver the content of the intervention

BEHAVIORALDelayed Family Gene Toolkit

Psychosocial educational presentations over the Internet (Webinars) Two Webinars lasting 1 hour each One follow-up phone call lasting 20 minutes Webinars and phone calls are delivered to one mutation carrier and one non-tested relative Genetic counselors and nurses with master's degree and experienced in oncology deliver the content of the intervention

Sponsors

University of Michigan
Lead SponsorOTHER

Study design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
CROSSOVER
Primary purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
NONE

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
FEMALE
Age
18 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
Yes

Inclusion criteria

for mutation carrier: 1. had genetic testing for BRCA 1 or BRCA 2, and received positive test results; 2. are older than 18 years; 3. speak English; 4. agree to invite in the study one female relative who has ≥10% of carrying a genetic mutation AND did not have genetic testing; and 5. have access to an Internet enabled computer. Inclusion Criteria for relatives 1. did not have genetic testing for BRCA 1 or BRCA 2; 2. are older than 18 years; 3. speak English; and 4. have access to an Internet enabled computer.

Exclusion criteria

* Women who have no female relatives * Women who are unable to consent * Women who do not have access to the Internet or the computer

Design outcomes

Primary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Intention for genetic testing1 month post-interventionIntention to have genetic testing
Decisional conflict for genetic testing1 month post-interventionDifficulty deciding about having genetic testing
Decisional regret1 month post-interventionRegret after having genetic testing

Secondary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Knowledge of BRCA1/2 genetics1 month post-interventionGenetic literacy

Countries

United States

Outcome results

None listed

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · Data processed: Feb 24, 2026