The use of heuristics in genetic testing decision-making: A qualitative interview study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Decision-making concerning predictive genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes is inherently complex. This study aims to investigate what kind of complexities adults undergoing genetic counseling in Switzerland experience, how they deal with them, and what heuristics they use during the decision-making process.

Methods

Semi-structured qualitative interviews with eighteen Swiss adults seeking genetic counseling for hereditary cancer syndrome genetic testing and two counseling physicians were conducted and analyzed using a grounded theory approach.

Results

Counselees stated that once they were aware of their eligibility for genetic testing they perceived an inevitable necessity to make a decision in a context of uncertainties. Some counselees perceived

SUBMITTER: Zimmermann BM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8631642 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature