Usefulness of the Threatening Medical Situations Inventory in individuals considering genetic testing for cancer risk

Abstract

Objective To assess the psychometric properties of the Threatening Medical Situations Inventory (TMSI) in a community sample (Study 1), and to examine its usefulness in individuals with a strong family history of cancer (Study 2). Methods Study 1 participants ( N = 276) completed 2 online surveys, 14 days apart. Study 2 participants ( N = 311) completed 2 questionnaires, 6 months apart. Results Both studies revealed the inventory was psychometrically sound, although some concerns were raised about the factor structure. High monitors in Study 1 reported desiring more health-related information and an active role in medical decision-making. High monitors in Study 2 had the greatest knowledge increase when they received a detailed decision aid, compared to a brief pamphlet. Conclusion The TMSI is appropriate for use in both community and clinical samples. High monitors in the general community are more likely to prefer receiving as much health-related information as possible and desire an active role in decision-making about their health. Practice implications Familial cancer clinic patients may benefit from tailoring the amount of information they receive to their coping style, such that patients who are vigilant information-seekers may benefit most from receiving more detailed information about genetic testing.