Decision-making in breast cancer prevention: The ENGAGE study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring decision-making in breast cancer prevention: The ENGAGE study
IRAS ID
161863
Contact name
Sally Burtles
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 2 months, 29 days
Research summary
Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women. In July, 2013 the National Institute of Clinical Excellence recommended that women at elevated risk of breast cancer should be offered medications known as Selective Oestrogen-Receptor-Modulators (SERMs) to reduce their risk. However, uptake in countries where breast cancer chemoprevention is already offered is low. Qualitative research investigating sociocognitive barriers to chemoprevention initiation suggests women are worried about drug side effects. However, broader issues around the use of medication in this setting are also concerning to women (e.g. that medications are over-prescribed,unnecessary, and poisonous). While these results are interesting and important, the research has largely been performed in countries outside of the UK and in insurance-based healthcare systems. Quantitative studies are also needed to confirm these findings.
This study will use three questionnaires and a structured interview to gain an insight into how women make decisions about breast cancer prevention. Women will be recruited from secondary (family history clinics) and tertiary (clinical genetics services) care. After their appointment, they will be consented by a research nurse, and given a questionnaire to complete. Women returning completed questionnaires will be followed up by questionnaire after 2 months and 1 year. Levels of adherence will be monitored in a telephone call using a structured interview. The study outcomes will also provide information to clinicians on the difficulties experienced by women during the decision-making process. Service improvements can then be made and interventions can be tailored to provide additional support.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NW/1408
Date of REC Opinion
7 Nov 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion