J Breast Cancer.  2013 Sep;16(3):335-341. 10.4048/jbc.2013.16.3.335.

The Effects of a Genetic Counseling Educational Program on Hereditary Breast Cancer for Korean Healthcare Providers

• Lee J
• Cho HJ
• Yoo HW
• Park SK
• Yang JJ
• Kim SW
• Kang E
• Ahn SH
• Lee SJ
• Suh YJ
• Kim SY
• Kim EK
• Moon NM
• Lee MH
• The Korean Hereditary Breast Cancer Research Group, Korean Breast Cancer Society

• KMID: 2286386
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4048/jbc.2013.16.3.335

Abstract

PURPOSE
Systematic educational programs and genetic counseling certification courses for hereditary breast/ovarian cancer (HBOC) have not yet been introduced in Korea. We provided and evaluated the effects of genetic counseling education on Korean healthcare providers' knowledge, awareness, and counseling skills for patients at high risk of HBOC.
METHODS
A 3-day educational program was conducted for healthcare providers who were interested in genetic counseling for patients at high risk of HBOC. Participants who completed a knowledge test and satisfaction questionnaire were included in the present sample. Pre-post comparisons were conducted to determine the effects of the intervention.
RESULTS
Significant differences between preprogram and postprogram knowledge scores were observed (p=0.002). Awareness (p<0.001) and confidence (p<0.001) regarding genetic counseling significantly increased after the training. Doctors and participants with fewer years of work experience performed well on the knowledge test. Previous educational experience was correlated with increased confidence in knowledge and counseling skills.
CONCLUSION
Genetic counseling education regarding HBOC improved knowledge and awareness of HBOC and enhanced confidence in the counseling process. The effects varied according to occupation and participants' previous education. The implementation of systematic educational programs that consider participant characteristics may improve the effects of such interventions.

Keyword

Breast neoplasms; Education; Genetic counseling; Hereditary neoplastic syndromes

MeSH Terms

Breast
Breast Neoplasms
Certification
Counseling
Delivery of Health Care
Genetic Counseling
Health Personnel
Humans
Korea
Neoplastic Syndromes, Hereditary
Occupations
Surveys and Questionnaires

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