Abstract
It has been established that deciding to undergo a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy is a complex step for any individual. Studies have highlighted various factors such as family history of cancer and altered body image concerns that could play a role in this decision-making. However, there still is not enough evidence elaborating thoughts of women who undergo this surgery between the ages of 20 and 30 years. The purpose of this study was to explore the decision making of these young women. We conducted the study through an anonymous survey (FORCE) and received 27 responses. All the women reported to have a significant family history of BRCA-associated cancers. Most women had met with a genetic counselor/geneticist soon after being identified with a germline mutation, and found it helpful. We concluded observed that women in this cohort (1) had a family history of cancer and death due to cancer (2) had a realistic understanding of the lifetime risk of breast cancer due to BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation (3) faced concerns pertaining to their ability to breastfeed, potential impact to sexual relationships and altered body image (4) consider screening techniques to induce some level of anxiety (5) considered information from surgeon/plastic surgeon very helpful in their decision-making. Even though they had a realistic lifetime breast cancer risk perspective 60 and 89 %, they decided to undergo the surgery as opposed to opting for routine screening. This data highlights some of those concerns of this cohort and supports the need to address psychosocial concerns of women making the decision of undergoing a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy.