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Experiencing the cancer of a loved one influences decision-making for breast cancer prevention

Authors :
Electra D. Paskett
Tasleem J. Padamsee
Anna Muraveva
Celia E. Wills
Lisa D. Yee
Source :
Journal of Health Psychology. 25:1064-1075
Publication Year :
2017
Publisher :
SAGE Publications, 2017.

Abstract

Prior research demonstrates that family history influences breast cancer prevention decisions among healthy women at elevated risk of the disease. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 50 African American and White women, this study reveals an important psychological mechanism of this relationship: exposure to cancer among loved ones. Four distinct categories of cancer exposure (Abstract, Generalized, Practical, and Traumatic), distinguished by the characteristics of women’s experiences with cancer among family members and close friends, are associated with differences in knowledge and decisions about breast cancer prevention options. Racial differences and distinct experiences among those with BRCA mutations are also discussed.

Details

ISSN :
14617277 and 13591053
Volume :
25
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Journal of Health Psychology
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....9c4a0e67f5a7ad31b944b83813745778
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105317746480