Family Communication of Genetic Risk: What is it and Why does it Matter?

Authors

  • Peter James B. Abad, RN, MSc College of Nursing, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines; College of Nursing, University of Iowa, Iowa, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8899-9044

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47895/amp.vi0.9721

Keywords:

communication, family, genetic predisposition to disease, genetic testing, genetic risk

Abstract

Inherited conditions have implications not only for the individual affected but for the entire family. It is in this context that family communication of genetic risk information is important to understand. This paper aims to provide an overview of the construct of family communication of genetic risk and provide implications for healthcare providers. A search of relevant literature was done with electronic databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. The findings from the literature were organized based on the Family Communication of Genetic Risk (FCGR) conceptual framework which highlights the attributes of the family communication of genetic risk process including influential factors, communication strategy, communication occurrence, and outcomes of communication. Healthcare providers need to understand how individuals share genetic risk with their family members so that appropriate support and interventions can be provided to them. This is especially important across countries, including the Philippines, as genetic services and testing move beyond the traditional medical genetics clinic to other medical specialties, a development where we would expect an increase in individuals and family members undergoing genetic evaluation and testing.

Downloads

Published

2024-08-22

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

1.
Family Communication of Genetic Risk: What is it and Why does it Matter?. Acta Med Philipp [Internet]. 2024 Aug. 22 [cited 2025 Apr. 3];. Available from: https://actamedicaphilippina.upm.edu.ph/index.php/acta/article/view/9721

Most read articles by the same author(s)