Understanding how women with BRCA1/2 mutations respond to genetic risk testing

Responses to Genetic Risk Modifier Testing Among Women With BRCA1/2 Mutations

Observational Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center · NCT03396341

This study looks at how women with BRCA1/2 mutations feel about genetic risk testing and how it affects their healthcare choices.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages25 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Academic / other
Locations7 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 6 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03396341 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the reactions of women with BRCA1/2 mutations to genetic risk modifier testing and how these reactions influence their healthcare decisions. Participants will provide saliva samples and complete questionnaires to gather data on their experiences and decision-making processes. The study focuses on women aged 25 and older who have a confirmed deleterious mutation but no personal history of breast cancer. The findings could provide insights into the psychological and social impacts of genetic testing.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 25 years or older with a confirmed BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation and no personal history of breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who have undergone prophylactic mastectomy or have significant psychiatric or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of patient responses to genetic risk testing, leading to improved support and decision-making resources for women with BRCA1/2 mutations.

How similar studies have performed: While this study focuses on a specific population, similar studies on genetic testing responses have shown promising insights into patient decision-making and psychological impacts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female patient, age 25 years or older (given that women under this age are not generally recommended to receive BRCA1/2 genetic testing)
* Completed full sequence or targeted genetic testing with a clinically confirmed BRCA1 or BRCA2 deleterious mutation identified
* No personal history of breast cancer
* English-fluent; the surveys were designed and validated in English and are not currently available in other languages. Translation of questionnaires into other languages would require reestablishing the reliability and validity of these measures. Therefore, participants must be able to communicate in English to complete the surveys.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous receipt of any prophylactic mastectomy.
* Major psychiatric illness or cognitive impairment that in the judgment of the study investigators or study staff would preclude study participation.
* Any patients who are unable to comply with the study procedures as determined by the study investigators or study staff.

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts and 6 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Genetic TestingBRCA1/2BRCA1/2 Mutations17-489
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.