Expectations and psychological issues before genetic counseling: analysis of distress determinant factors.

Background: Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) and Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) are the most common hereditary cancer syndromes in which a genetic test is available. Potential risks associated with testing include psychological harm, emotional distress and insurance problems.

Methods: The aim of the present study is to investigate determinants of distress in a sample of Italian subjects undergoing genetic counseling.