BRCA1 and BRCA2 risk perceptions among African American women at increased risk for hereditary breast-ovarian cancer.

Objectives: To describe BRCA1 or BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) risk perceptions among African American women at increased risk for hereditary breast-ovarian cancer and to identify factors having independent associations with these perceptions.

Methods: Risk perceptions were evaluated by self-report during a structured telephone interview among African American women (n = 162) at increased risk for hereditary cancer who were recruited from oncology clinics, general medical practices, and community oncology resources.

Results: The majority of women (75%) believed that it was likely that they had a BRCA1/2 mutation. Women ages 50 and younger and those with greater cancer-specific worry were most likely to believe that they had a BRCA1/2 mutation.

Conclusions: Although BRCA1/2 risk perceptions may be consistent with objective risk levels among African American women, discussion about the basis of risk perceptions may enhance provision of genetic counseling and testing in this population.