Ambiguity in a masculine world: Being a BRCA1/2 mutation carrier and a man with prostate cancer.
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Date
2017-11-01ICR Author
Author
Moynihan, C
Bancroft, EK
Mitra, A
Ardern-Jones, A
Castro, E
Page, EC
Eeles, RA
Type
Journal Article
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
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.
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Subject
Prostate
Humans
Prostatic Neoplasms
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
Sexual Behavior
Mutation
Genes, BRCA1
Genes, BRCA2
Qualitative Research
Adult
Middle Aged
Men
Male
Interviews as Topic
Masculinity
Research team
Oncogenetics
Language
eng
Date accepted
2017-08-08
License start date
2017-11
Citation
Psycho-oncology, 2017, 26 (11), pp. 1987 - 1993
Publisher
WILEY