Ambiguity in a masculine world: Being a BRCA1/2 mutation carrier and a man with prostate cancer.
- Resource Type
- Academic Journal
- Authors
- Moynihan C; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.; Bancroft EK; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.; Mitra A; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.; University College Hospitals, London, UK.; Ardern-Jones A; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.; Castro E; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.; Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain.; Page EC; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.; Eeles RA; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
- Source
- Publisher: Wiley Country of Publication: England NLM ID: 9214524 Publication Model: Print-Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 1099-1611 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 10579249 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Psychooncology Subsets: MEDLINE
- Subject
- Language
- English
Objective: Increased risk of prostate cancer (PCa) is observed in men with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. Sex and gender are key determinants of health and disease although unequal care exists between the sexes. Stereotypical male attitudes are shown to lead to poor health outcomes.
Methods: Men with BRCA1/2 mutations and diagnosed with PCa were identified and invited to participate in a qualitative interview study. Data were analysed using a framework approach. "Masculinity theory" was used to report the impact of having both a BRCA1/2 mutation and PCa.
Results: Eleven of 15 eligible men were interviewed. The umbrella concept of "Ambiguity in a Masculine World" was evident. Men's responses often matched those of women in a genetic context. Men's BRCA experience was described, as "on the back burner" but "a bonus" enabling familial detection and early diagnosis of PCa. Embodiment of PCa took precedence as men revealed stereotypical "ideal" masculine responses such as stoicism and control while creating new "masculinities" when faced with the vicissitudes of having 2 gendered conditions.
Conclusion: Health workers are urged to take a reflexive approach, void of masculine ideals, a belief in which obfuscates men's experience. Research is required regarding men's support needs in the name of equality of care.
(© 2017 The Authors. Psycho-Oncology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)