The role of social support and stress coping strategies in genetic screening for cancer predisposition – BRCA testing as an example

Individuals with monoallelic pathogenic variants in BRCA1/BRCA2 genes are at an increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. The results of genetic tests may present a stressor related to the fear associated with the impact of the diagnosis on an individual’s future.The aim of the study was to verify the level of depression, anxiety, and stress in individuals waiting for the results of BRCA genetic tests. How personality traits, stress coping strategies and social support influence the level of mental discomfort was examined.82 consecutive individuals completed an anonymous online survey consisting of basic information and five questionnaires: the Inventory for Measuring Coping with Stress (Mini-COPE), the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7), Polish adaptation of the Ten Item Personality Inventory test (TIPI-PL), and the Berlin Social Support Scales (BSSS).Participants obtained the highest scores in Mini-COPE strategies: active coping, planning, positive reframing, acceptance, and seeking emotional support. The results of DASS-21 and GAD-7 indicate the level of depression, anxiety, and stress mainly in the normal range. The highest scores in the TIPI-PL test were obtained on the conscientiousness, agreeableness, and extraversion scales. Participants, who have already obtained the results had higher scores on the Need for Support Scale (BSSS).In general, the situation of BRCA genetic testing is not causing significant negative mental discomfort. Nonetheless, the results indicate a significant role of social support in coping with stress in individuals who have already obtained the results of their genetic test.