Background The presence of BRCA mutations is associated with an increased risk of developing several types of cancer, particularly breast and ovarian cancer. Mutation carriers often experience stress, anxiety, and distress that can be addressed through tailored psychosocial interventions. This narrative review aims to explore available interventions and their impact on women’s psychosocial well- being. Methods Literature search and narrative review. Results Several psychological and psychosocial interventions are available that could help improve quality of life (QoL) and reduce depression, anxiety, and cancer-related distress in women with BRCA mutations. However, most of the available data derive from qualitative studies, and randomised controlled studies are lacking. Moreover, they often focus on Caucasian/European populations. A collaborative and multidisciplinary approach, involving a variety of health professionals, trained peers, and family members is essential to ensure effective interventions. Conclusions Although psychological and psychosocial interventions are generally well tolerated and can help reduce the burden associated with carrying BRCA mutations, considerable disparities in the provision of psychosocial services persist worldwide. A multidisciplinary approach is therefore warranted.
Piattelli et al. (Sun,) studied this question.