Little is known about men seeking genetic counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). We review the sparse literature on men attending such genetic consultations. Two main themes are identified: the women's influence on the genetic counseling process, and the psychological impact on men. The women in the HBOC families have an influence on the men's decision to request genetic testing, and they take the leading role in communicating genetic information. With respect to psychological impact, the men suffer from grief and fear of developing cancer, and they seem to use avoidance as a coping strategy. Carrier males experience feelings of guilt because they might have passed on a mutation to their children. Non-carriers experience test-related stress if their siblings tested positive. Mutation status may have an impact on reproductive issues. These findings are discussed in light of gender issues and literature concerning men's health behavior. Further studies are needed to provide optimal care for men seeking genetic counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

In families with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, there is limited knowledge about the reactions of BRCA1/2 mutation positive males. In the present qualitative study, fifteen BRCA1/2 mutation positive men in Norway participated in two successive, in-depth interviews. Seven female partners participated in the second interview. The men reported strong emotional reactions to their positive test results, and they expressed a desire to keep the genetic information private. They considered discussing their test results or health related information with other males as difficult, and they perceived females as their sources of social and emotional support. Interestingly, the second interview revealed important information not communicated during the first interview. The findings of this study contribute to the discussion of whether men who test positive for a BRCA1/2 mutation should receive tailored genetic counseling sessions. Health care providers should be aware of psychological vulnerability in these men, likely stemming from fewer emotional supports in their social networks.