Titel | High demoralization in a minority of oophorectomized BRCA1/2 mutation carriers influences quality of life. |
Publicatietype | Journal Article |
Jaar van publicatie | 2017 |
Auteurs | de Jong MArts-, DeJong CA, Hermens RP, Kissane DW, Massuger LM, Hoogerbrugge N, Prins JB, deHullu JA |
Uitgave | J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol |
Pagina's | 1-9 |
Publicatiedatum | 2017 Mar 10 |
ISSN | 1743-8942 |
Samenvatting | INTRODUCTION: Demoralization is a relatively neglected issue in which low morale and poor coping result from a stressor such as familial cancer risk. Female BRCA1/2 mutation carriers are highly susceptible for developing breast and ovarian cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate demoralization in oophorectomized BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and its relation to quality of life. METHODS: This cross-sectional study examined 288 oophorectomized BRCA1/2 mutation carriers using the following standardized self-report measures: Demoralization Scale, EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire-C30, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and the Cancer Worry Scale. RESULTS: The mean score on the Demoralization Scale was 17.8 (SD 14.0). A clinically significant level of demoralization, defined as a score ≥30, was found in 45 BRCA1/2 mutation carriers (16%). Being highly demoralized was associated with a significantly lower quality of life, and higher levels of physical problems, anxiety and cancer worries. No demographic or clinical factors could predict higher levels of demoralization. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings established that a clear proportion of oophorectomized BRCA1/2 mutation carriers experience demoralization impacting on their well-being. Further research is needed to explore the natural trajectory of demoralization and the resultant need for support in these women. |
DOI | 10.1080/0167482X.2017.1296429 |
Alternatieve uitgave | J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol |
PubMed ID | 28279121 |