Family Communication of Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk Among African Americans

Study Summary

Background: \- Certain genetic mutations are linked to higher rates of cancer. It is important for people with these mutations to tell their families about it. This is because others in the family may also be at greater risk for developing these cancers. They can also pass these genes to their own children. But not much is known about how African Americans tell their family members about the results of their genetic testing. The information from this study can be used to improve genetic counseling services. These services will then be more effective in early cancer detection and prevention in the African American community. Objectives: \- To learn more about how African Americans who have tested positive for BRCA1/2 mutations tell their families about their genetic risk. Eligibility: \- African American (or of African descent) women who recently received positive test results for BRCA1/2 mutations. Design: * Participants will be screened with a basic medical history. * They will be asked general questions about their personal and family history. These include questions on marital and health insurance status, education, and income. * Those in the study will have a 45- to 60-minute phone interview. They will answer questions about how they told their family members about their genetic test results. They will also be asked what that experience was like.