Results of a randomized study of telephone versus in-person breast cancer risk counseling

ObjectiveWomen of all risk levels have reported high interest in obtaining genetic testing for breast cancer risk. Breast cancer risk counseling may help women to learn about their risk and appropriate options of testing. This study measured the effects of an intervention in-person and by telephone, compared to a control group.MethodsParticipants were 340 women, recruited through a network of primary care physicians. They received a baseline questionnaire in the mail, were randomized to one of the three study arms, and completed a follow-up survey 3 months later.ResultsBoth types of counseling were very well received. The counseling decreased women's cancer worry, risk perceptions, and intentions to pursue genetic testing. There were similar effects for both in-person and telephone counseling.ConclusionGenetic counseling can be used to inform women at all risk levels about their breast cancer risk.Practice implicationsBreast cancer risk counseling can be done in-person and by telephone – thereby reaching women in remote areas.