Lifestyle Behaviors in Women With a BRCA1 or BRCA2 Genetic Mutation

Abstract

Lifestyle behaviors have not been adequately addressed as potential cancer risk-reduction strategies in women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations. The aims of this qualitative pilot study were to explore current lifestyle practices among these women and to assess perceptions regarding risk as well as perceived benefits and perceived barriers to engage in healthy behaviors. Qualitative descriptive methodology was used with research questions derived from key Health Belief Model concepts. Interviews were conducted with 10 women recruited through a cancer genetics clinic. Interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed for content analysis of common themes and patterns. All of the participants expressed that they were at high risk for cancer; however, 5 of the women had prophylactic surgery, which decreased their sense of risk. Most women made some healthy behavior change as a result of their elevated risk awareness. Perceived benefits to healthy lifestyles included increased energy and improved mood. Perceived barriers were related to the expense and inconvenience of preparing healthy meals and lack of time to exercise. The findings reveal that there is a need for nursing interventions that may improve education and enhance motivation regarding potential lifestyle risk-reduction behaviors in women with a genetic predisposition for breast and ovarian cancer.