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Leerschool AR, Wesselius A, Kokole D, Zeegers MP. Changes in acceptability, consideration, intention, and uptake of direct-to-consumer genetic tests in the Netherlands from 2017 to 2022. J Genet Couns 2024. [PMID: 38828901 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Although the popularity of direct-to-consumer genetic tests (DTC-GT) for disease-related purposes increased, concerns persist whether consumers make well-informed decisions about their purchase. To better target pre- and post-test information materials, this study aims to determine the characteristics of people interested in undergoing DTC-GT. In addition, it aims to determine changes in acceptability, consideration, intention, and uptake of DTC-GT since 2017. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted in April 2022 with a representative sample of the Dutch adult population. Ordinal regression models and chi-squared tests were used to determine factors associated with DTC-GT acceptability, consideration and intention, and changes in outcomes since 2017, respectively. Of the 907 included respondents, 19.3% found DTC-GT acceptable, 29.4% considered taking a DTC-GT in the future, 6.2% intended to take a test within the coming year, and 0.9% had already tested. High education was associated with lower acceptability, consideration, intention, and higher awareness. Respondents with a chronic disease were less likely to find DTC-GT acceptable. Higher consideration was associated with having a partner, adopted/stepchildren, and lower age. Compared to 2017, in 2022 more respondents found DTC-GT totally unacceptable, while more considered testing, and fewer ruled out taking a test both in the next year and the future. Education status may play an important role in people's acceptability, consideration, intention, and awareness of disease-related DTC-GT in the Netherlands. Easy-to-understand public information materials should be promoted and guidance is needed to help with decision-making and result interpretation. Future research should focus on the best way to provide responsible guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Roos Leerschool
- CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anke Wesselius
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daša Kokole
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maurice P Zeegers
- CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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2
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Rahma AT, Abdullahi AS, Graziano G, Elbarazi I. The attitude and behaviors of the different spheres of the community of the United Arab Emirates toward the clinical utility and bioethics of secondary genetic findings: a cross-sectional study. Hum Genomics 2023; 17:98. [PMID: 37932866 PMCID: PMC10626730 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-023-00548-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genome sequencing has utility, however, it may reveal secondary findings. While Western bioethicists have been occupied with managing secondary findings, specialists' attention in the Arabic countries has not yet been captured. We aim to explore the attitude of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) population toward secondary findings. METHOD We conducted a cross-sectional study between July and December 2022. The validated questionnaire was administered in English. The questionnaire consists of six sections addressing topics such as demographics, reactions to hypothetical genetic test results, disclosure of mutations to family members, willingness to seek genetic testing, and attitudes toward consanguinity. Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were used to investigate associations between categorical variables. RESULTS We had 343 participants of which the majority were female (67%). About four-fifths (82%) were willing to know the secondary findings, whether the condition has treatment or not. The most likely action to take among the participants was to know the secondary findings, so they can make life choices (61%). CONCLUSION These results can construct the framework of the bioethics of disclosing secondary findings in the Arab regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azhar T Rahma
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, 15551, UAE.
| | - Aminu S Abdullahi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, 15551, UAE
| | | | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, 15551, UAE
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3
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Arulogun O, Nichols M, Jenkins C, Fakunle AG, Akpa O, Sarfo FS, Akpalu A, Wahab K, Obiako R, Komolafe M, Owolabi L, Osaigbovo GO, Okekunle AP, Akinyemi J, Ogbole G, Calys-Tagoe B, Adeleye A, Mensah Y, Asowata OJ, Adeoye AM, Appiah L, Singh A, Adebayo P, Arnett D, Tiwari HK, Lackland D, Ibinaiye P, Oguike W, Melikam C, Sunday A, Bello A, Ogah O, Akinyemi R, Ovbiagele B, Owolabi M. Are there differences in perceptions, preferences and attitudes towards disclosure of genetic testing for Stroke? A qualitative study among stroke-free SIREN-SIBS genomics study participants. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2023; 32:106978. [PMID: 36634397 PMCID: PMC9928805 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2023.106978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored perceptions, preferences and attitudes towards disclosure of genetic testing results for stroke among stroke-free controls (and their family members) in the SIREN-SIBS Genomics Study, healthcare providers and policymakers. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a qualitative thematic analysis of key informant interviews with 61 participants recruited from community advisory boards (30) and health care providers (31) across seven sites in Nigeria and Ghana. RESULTS Major findings illustrate differences in the knowledge of genetic testing with superior knowledge among health care professionals. Relatives and religious leaders were opined as the best to receive the disclosure as they would be able to break the news to the patient in a culturally sensitive manner to reduce the likely resultant emotional outburst. Poor level of awareness of national guidelines for disclosing genetic results exist. Key facilitating factors for disclosure are education, enabling environment, involvement of religious and community leaders, campaigns, and possible treatment options. Disclosure inhibitors include inadequate information, fear of marital break-up or family displacement, fear of stigmatization, fear of isolation, religious beliefs, health worker attitude, and lack of preparedness to accept results. CONCLUSIONS These necessitate culturally sensitive interventions for continuing education, increased awareness and sustained engagement to equip all stakeholders in genetic testing disclosure process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oyedunni Arulogun
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Michelle Nichols
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, South Carolina, USA
| | - Carolyn Jenkins
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, South Carolina, USA
| | - Adekunle Gregory Fakunle
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Department of Public Health, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Onoja Akpa
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Fred S Sarfo
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Albert Akpalu
- Department of Medicine, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kolawole Wahab
- Department of Medicine, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Reginald Obiako
- Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Morenikeji Komolafe
- Department of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Lukman Owolabi
- Department of Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | - Akinkunmi Paul Okekunle
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joshua Akinyemi
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Godwin Ogbole
- Department of Radiology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Adeniji Adeleye
- Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Yaw Mensah
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | | | - Abiodun M Adeoye
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Lambert Appiah
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Arti Singh
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | | | - Donna Arnett
- College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, USA
| | - Hemant K Tiwari
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Daniel Lackland
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, South Carolina, USA
| | - Philip Ibinaiye
- Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Wisdom Oguike
- Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | | | - Adeniyi Sunday
- Department of Medicine, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Abiodun Bello
- Department of Medicine, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Okechukwu Ogah
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Rufus Akinyemi
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bruce Ovbiagele
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San-Francisco, USA
| | - Mayowa Owolabi
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
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Hui VCC, Li HC, Chow JHK, Ng CSC, Lui CYW, Fung JLF, Mak CCY, Chung BHY, Lau KK. Understanding and perception of direct-to-consumer genetic testing in Hong Kong. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:1640-1648. [PMID: 33938075 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTCGT) is gaining popularity in Hong Kong (HK). As DTCGT forgoes specialist medical involvement, healthcare professionals have raised concerns regarding its validity, utility, and the public's ability to interpret DTCGT results. Thus, genetic counseling (GC) is recommended to facilitate understanding of DTCGT. This study aimed to investigate HK public's perception toward DTCGT and the importance of GC in DTCGT. A total of 304 HK adults were invited to complete a 37-item survey online. Participants' genomic literacy, understanding and attitude toward DTCGT and GC, and responses to a mock DTCGT scenario were assessed. 48% of participants were aware of DTCGT while 82% indicated an interest. 30% of participants were aware of GC services in HK; 49% were interested in GC services for understanding DTCGT results. Participants scored on average 7.6/11 in the genomic sequencing knowledge scale and were weak in limitations of genomic testing. In the mock DTCGT scenario, 73% of participants expressed concern with the positive results initially. After being explained limitations of DTCGT, 40% of participants reported decreased concern. Reduced perceived helpfulness in medical management and lifestyle modification were also reported by 35% and 27%, respectively. This HK population demonstrated a high level of awareness and interest in DTCGT. As potential DTCGT users, they might experience excess concern and overestimate the usefulness of positive DTCGT results, particularly in medical management. The importance of GC to educate and guide interpretation of DTCGT results is supported; yet the awareness and access of GC services is inadequate in HK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian C C Hui
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - H C Li
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Josh H K Chow
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chris S C Ng
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Constance Y W Lui
- Bachelor of Nursing program, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jasmine L F Fung
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Christopher C Y Mak
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Brian H Y Chung
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kui Kai Lau
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Gerdes AM, Nicolaisen L, Husum E, Andersen JB, Gantzhorn MD, Roos L, Diness BR. Direct to consumer genetic testing in Denmark-public knowledge, use, and attitudes. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 29:851-860. [PMID: 33649540 PMCID: PMC8110758 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00810-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct to consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT) is offered by commercial companies, but the use in the general population has only been sparsely investigated. A questionnaire was sent to 2013 representative Danish citizens asking about their awareness and use of DTC-GT. Individuals who had undergone a genetic test were interviewed to determine if the results had been understood correctly. A pilot study with 2469 questionnaires was performed before this study. In total, 45.4% of the individuals (n = 913/2013) had knowledge about DTC-GT and 2.5% (n = (18 + 5)/913) previously had a genetic test by a private company and 5.8% through the public health care system (n = (48 + 5)/913). Curiosity about own genetic information was the most frequent motivation (40.9%, n = 9/22) as well as knowledge of ancestry (36.4%, n = 8/22) and advice about lifestyle, exercise, or diet (36.4%, n = 8/22). Test of own disease risk was given as a reason in 27.3% (n = 6/22) and seeking possible explanation of specific symptoms in 13.6% (n = 3/22). 50% (n = 11/22) answered that they had become concerned after the test, and 17.4% (n = 4/23) had consulted their GP. Interviews in a subset of respondents from the pilot study revealed problems with understanding the results. One problem was how to interpret the genetic test results with respect to individual risk for a disease. For example, the difference between disease causing genetic variants in monogenetic diseases versus statistical risks by SNPs in multifactorial diseases was not understood by the respondents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Marie Gerdes
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Line Nicolaisen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Egil Husum
- Bech-Bruun Law Firm P/S, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janne Bayer Andersen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Laura Roos
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Rode Diness
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Cohidon C, Cardinaux R, Cornuz J, Chenal R, Desvergne B, Guessous I, Cerqui D, Widmer D. May direct-to-consumer genetic testing have an impact on general practitioners' daily practice? a cross-sectional study of patients' intentions towards this approach. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:79. [PMID: 33902442 PMCID: PMC8077756 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01428-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTCGT) offers individuals access to information on their probable risks of suffering from a wide range of chronic diseases. General practitioners (GPs) will probably play a major role in supporting its use, but patients' perception of DTCGT remain unclear. This study aimed to describe those attitudes and expectations and how they might affect GPs' daily practices. METHODS In 2018-2019, a study related to the use of DTCGT for preventive care in general medicine was conducted among patients in Switzerland's French-speaking areas. Data were collected in the waiting room using a self-administrated questionnaire about patients' interest in DTCGT and what their attitudes might be if testing revealed an elevated risk of diabetes, colorectal cancer, or Alzheimer's disease. RESULTS About 40% of the 929 participating (participation rate about 80%) patients had heard about DTCGT and, once the test had been explained, 43% reported that they would be interested in being tested. If that testing suggested an elevated risk of disease, the majority of patients reported that they would change their lifestyle (65%-81%, depending on the disease), request more examinations (63%-77%), and expect changes in their GP's follow-up (48%-59%). Personal characteristics such as sex, age, urbanity, marital status, and perceived health were factors predictive of patients' attitudes. CONCLUSION Findings indicated that the generalization of DTCGT might affect GPs' daily practices in terms of workload and knowledge about this approach. However, this result must be qualified by the fact that it is based on hypothetical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Cohidon
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Regula Cardinaux
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jacques Cornuz
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Robin Chenal
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Béatrice Desvergne
- Centre for Integrative Genomics (CIG), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Idris Guessous
- Division and Department of Primary Care Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Cerqui
- Institute of Social Sciences, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Widmer
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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7
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Knowledge and Attitudes of Medical and Health Science Students in the United Arab Emirates toward Genomic Medicine and Pharmacogenomics: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Pers Med 2020; 10:jpm10040191. [PMID: 33114420 PMCID: PMC7711592 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10040191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Medical and health science students represent future health professionals, and their perceptions are essential to increasing awareness on genomic medicine and pharmacogenomics. Lack of education is one of the significant barriers that may affect health professional’s ability to interpret and communicate pharmacogenomics information and results to their clients. Our aim was to assess medical and health science students’ knowledge, attitudes and perception for a better genomic medicine and pharmacogenomics practice in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated questionnaire distributed electronically to students recruited using random and snowball sampling methods. A total of 510 students consented and completed the questionnaire between December 2018 and October 2019. The mean knowledge score (SD) for students was 5.4 (±2.7). There were significant differences in the levels of knowledge by the year of study of bachelor’s degree students, the completion status of training or education in pharmacogenomics (PGX) or pharmacogenetics and the completion of an internship or study abroad program (p-values < 0.05. The top two barriers that students identified in the implementation of genomic medicine and pharmacogenomics were lack of training or education (59.7%) and lack of clinical guidelines (58.7%). Concerns regarding confidentiality and discrimination were stated. The majority of medical and health science students had positive attitudes but only had a fair level of knowledge. Stakeholders in the UAE must strive to acquaint their students with up-to-date knowledge of genomic medicine and pharmacogenomics.
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8
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Calabrò GE, Sassano M, Tognetto A, Boccia S. Citizens' Attitudes, Knowledge, and Educational Needs in the Field of Omics Sciences: A Systematic Literature Review. Front Genet 2020; 11:570649. [PMID: 33193671 PMCID: PMC7644959 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.570649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The huge development of omics sciences is changing the classical medical approach and making new technologies available. In this context, education of citizens is essential to allow appropriate decisions about their own health. Hence, we aimed to summarize existing literature regarding citizens' knowledge, attitudes, and educational needs on omics sciences. Methods: We performed a systematic literature review (SLR) using Pubmed, ISI Web of Science, and Embase databases. The eligibility criteria for inclusion in this review required that the studies investigated knowledge, attitudes, or educational needs regarding omics sciences among the general population. Results: We included 54 studies, published between 2006 and 2020. Most of the included studies (72%) investigated citizens' knowledge, half of them (56%) attitudes, and 20% educational needs in the field of omics sciences, while 52% investigated attitudes and perceptions about genetic and/or omics tests. Most studies (64%) reported a limited knowledge level among citizens, even though most (59%) reported participants understood the benefits of the use of omics sciences into medicine. As for omics tests, a controversial opinion toward their use into practice was reported among citizens. Most of the studies (82%) investigating citizens' educational needs highlighted a clear gap to be filled. Conclusions: Our SLR summarizes current knowledge on citizens' literacy, attitudes, and educational needs on omics science, underlining the need for strengthening public engagement on this topic. Further research is needed, however, to identify appropriate methods and models to achieve such an improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Elisa Calabrò
- Section of Hygiene, University Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Sassano
- Section of Hygiene, University Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Tognetto
- Section of Hygiene, University Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Boccia
- Section of Hygiene, University Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health-Public Health Area, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
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9
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Oliveri S, Marton G, Vergani L, Cutica I, Gorini A, Spinella F, Pravettoni G. Genetic Testing Consumers in Italy: A Preliminary Investigation of the Socio-Demographic Profile, Health-Related Habits, and Decision Purposes. Front Public Health 2020; 8:511. [PMID: 33134235 PMCID: PMC7578342 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim of the study: Genetic testing is becoming increasingly common in clinical practice and health management; nonetheless, little is known about how the population approaches genetic services through private companies. Our study aims to describe socio-demographic aspects, health-related habits, and overall beliefs and knowledge about genetic risk and testing in a population of Italian citizens who decided to undergo a genetic examination through a private genetic company. Study design: A sample of 152 clients from an Italian private genetic company completed an ad-hoc survey from September 2016 to February 2018, addressing socio-demographic data, health habits, psycho-physic condition, perceived utility of genetic results, decision purposes about data sharing, and behavioral changes after results. Results: Participants (mean age 42.4) were predominantly female (82.2%) and were overall well-educated. Their main source of information were physicians (77%), and 41.1% entrusted the management of results to the same. Thirty-eight percentage underwent genetic analysis for cancer predisposition, 31.3% for fertility problems, 24% for dietary or intolerance issues in the period of enrolment. More than half of them (62.7%) reported a family history of the disease, and overall 69% had a current or past experience with a disease. Clients perceived the genetic screening as useful to adopt behaviors that may prevent disease onset (37.7%), to know their “real health status” (27.4%), and to adopt health-related behaviors (23.3%). 62.8% claimed they were motivated to change behaviors after results (healthier diet, practice exercise, medical checks), and they wanted to share results with their physician and family members. Discussion/Conclusion: The overview of consumers' profiles in Italy and other European countries can contribute to tailoring and regulating genetic services in a way that could be efficient in terms of healthy choices, behaviors, and health resource expenditures for the general public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Oliveri
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Marton
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Vergani
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cutica
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gorini
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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10
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Hoxhaj I, Stojanovic J, Boccia S. European citizens' perspectives on direct-to-consumer genetic testing: an updated systematic review. Eur J Public Health 2020; 33:ckz246. [PMID: 32361734 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckz246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct-to-consumer genetic tests (DTC-GTs) are genetic tests for a medical or non-medical trait that are sold directly to the public, usually ordered without the engagement of a healthcare professional. Our aim was to explore the knowledge, attitudes and behaviors toward DTC-GTs among European citizens. METHODS We updated the most recent systematic review on citizens' perspectives toward DTC-GTs. Relevant English language studies were searched on PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar from October 2014 to April 2019. We extended our search on Scopus without publication date restriction, since it was not included in the former review. Eligible studies were conducted in European countries and reported original data. The quality of the studies was evaluated using a checklist developed by Kmet et al. RESULTS We included six studies conducted in European countries between 2015 and 2018. The studies were performed among general population in the Netherlands, students in Italy and Greece, laypeople in Germany and older adults in Switzerland. The level of awareness, in overall low, differed by country and population group. Most of the participants were interested in undergoing a DTC-GT, mainly for knowing the risk predisposition to a common disease. Concerns were raised about tests' validity and utility and data privacy. CONCLUSIONS Our review shows that European citizens, overall, have a low level of knowledge on DTC-GTs and a high interest in their purchase. This understanding might contribute to the development of educational programs in order to the increase of general public capabilities to make appropriate health decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilda Hoxhaj
- Sezione di Igiene, Istituto di Sanità Pubblica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
| | - Jovana Stojanovic
- Sezione di Igiene, Istituto di Sanità Pubblica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
- Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Applied Physiology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Behavioural Medicine Centre, CIUSSS du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Stefania Boccia
- Sezione di Igiene, Istituto di Sanità Pubblica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health-Public Health Area, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Roma, Italia
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Schaper M, Wöhlke S, Schicktanz S. "I would rather have it done by a doctor"-laypeople's perceptions of direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC GT) and its ethical implications. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2019; 22:31-40. [PMID: 29705970 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-018-9837-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC GT) has been available for several years now, with varying degrees of regulation across different countries. Despite a restrictive legal framework it is possible for consumers to order genetic tests from companies located in other countries. However, German laypeople's awareness and perceptions of DTC GT services is still unexplored. We conducted seven focus groups (participants n = 43) with German laypeople to explore their perceptions of and attitudes towards commercial genetic testing and its ethical implications. Participants were critical towards DTC GT. Criticism was directed at health-related, predictive testing, while lifestyle tests were accepted and even welcomed to some extent. Participants expressed strong reservations regarding commercial provision of genetic diagnostics and expressed a lack of trust in respective companies. They preferred non-commercial distribution within the public healthcare system. Participants also expressed high expectations of physicians' abilities to interpret information obtained via DTC GT companies and provide counseling. Legal restrictions on commercial distribution of genetic tests were opposed, with participants arguing that it should be available to consumers. DTC GT companies are not perceived as trustworthy when compared to the public healthcare system and its professional ethical standards and practices. Laypeople rated general consumer autonomy higher than their own concerns, thus recommending against strong legal regulation. We conclude that medicine's trustworthiness may be negatively affected if commercial provision is not visibly opposed by the medical professions, while DTC GT companies may gain in trustworthiness if they adapt to standards and practices upheld in medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Schaper
- Department of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 36, 37073, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Sabine Wöhlke
- Department of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 36, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Silke Schicktanz
- Department of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 36, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
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Stewart KFJ, Kokole D, Wesselius A, Schols AMWJ, Zeegers MP, de Vries H, van Osch LADM. Factors Associated with Acceptability, Consideration and Intention of Uptake of Direct-To-Consumer Genetic Testing: A Survey Study. Public Health Genomics 2018; 21:45-52. [PMID: 30359983 DOI: 10.1159/000492960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With interest in personalised health care growing, so is interest in personal genetic testing. This is now offered direct-to-consumer, thereby referred to as direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT). Criticisms have been expressed on whether a truly informed decision to undergo testing is made with regard to these services. In order to provide relevant information to achieve this, knowing the characteristics of the expected user population is helpful. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify characteristics of individuals who (1) find the concept of DTC-GT acceptable and (2) consider undergoing DTC-GT in the distant or near future. METHODS This cross-sectional study investigated factors associated with acceptability, consideration and intention in the Dutch general population. Studied variables included awareness, principles and how-to knowledge, attitude, innovativeness, and multiple demographic characteristics. Generalised linear models were applied to identify associated variables. RESULTS Full data was obtained for 836 respondents. Of those, 18.3% found DTC-GT somewhat or totally acceptable, whereas 12.6% considered and 5.5% intended to undergo DTC-GT in the distant or near future. Acceptability was greater with lower principles knowledge, and consideration and intention with lower how-to knowledge. A more positive attitude and greater innovativeness were associated with an increase in all 3 outcomes. CONCLUSION Informed decision making may be hampered as individuals with lower how-to knowledge were found to be more interested in pursuing testing. The identified characteristics can be used in development and distribution of public and personalized information, in order to help consumers make a truly informed decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly F J Stewart
- Department of Complex Genetics and Epidemiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The .,CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The
| | - Daša Kokole
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anke Wesselius
- Department of Complex Genetics and Epidemiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annemie M W J Schols
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maurice P Zeegers
- Department of Complex Genetics and Epidemiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hein de Vries
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth A D M van Osch
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Stewart KFJ, Wesselius A, Schols AMWJ, Zeegers MP. Stages of behavioural change after direct-to-consumer disease risk profiling: study protocol of two integrated controlled pragmatic trials. Trials 2018; 19:240. [PMID: 29673375 PMCID: PMC5907695 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2630-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence and prevalence of chronic diseases have reached epidemic proportions during the last decades and are not expected to diminish. Chronic diseases increasingly affect younger individuals too, with over 40% of all deaths due to non-communicable diseases occurring before the age of 70. This has led to the development of information services aimed at preventive health care, such as Health Potential®. This counselling service estimates a personal disease risk of a carefully selected list of preventable common chronic diseases that have both a genetic and a lifestyle component of development. The results are delivered face-to-face by a lifestyle counsellor, simultaneously stimulating initial steps towards behaviour change. This information can assist in lifestyle decision-making. Methods/design The primary aim is to study the effect of the Health Potential® service on change in lifestyle behaviour in distinguishable customer populations. The secondary aims are (1) to study the effect of the Health Potential® service on determinants of behaviour change, (2) to study the effect of additional lifestyle counselling on behaviour change and determinants thereof, and (3) to describe the characteristics of the Health Potential® customer. The study consists of two integrated designs: (A) a two-armed non-randomised controlled pre-test/post-test trial (1.5:1 ratio), followed by (B) a two-armed randomised controlled pre-test/post-test trial (1:1 ratio), resulting in three study arms. Participants are clients of local prevention clinics, purchasing a personalised health check (PHC; intervention condition), consisting of Health Potential® and a general health check, or the general health check alone (GHC; control condition) (part A). PHC participants will be randomised to receive four additional lifestyle counselling sessions over a period of 3 months (part B). Discussion This research can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of and possible ways forward in the field of personalised prevention making use of lifestyle interventions enriched with modern genetic advancements. Trial registration Nederlands Trial Register, NTR6289 and NTR6288. Registered on 24 February 2017. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-018-2630-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly F J Stewart
- Department of Complex Genetics, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Anke Wesselius
- Department of Complex Genetics, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annemie M W J Schols
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maurice P Zeegers
- Department of Complex Genetics, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Wade CH, Elliott KR. Preferences for the provision of whole genome sequencing services among young adults. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174131. [PMID: 28334023 PMCID: PMC5363863 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives As whole genome sequencing (WGS) becomes increasingly available, clinicians will be faced with conveying complex information to individuals at different stages in life. The purpose of this study is to characterize the views of young adults toward obtaining WGS, learning different types of genomic information, and having choice about which results are disclosed. Methods A mixed-methods descriptive study was conducted with a diverse group of 18 and 19-years-olds (N = 145). Participants watched an informational video about WGS and then completed an online survey. Results Participants held a positive attitude toward obtaining WGS and learning about a range of health conditions and traits. Increased interest in learning WGS information was significantly associated with anticipated capacity to handle the emotional consequences if a serious risk was found (β = 0.13, P = .04). Young adults wanted the ability to choose what types of genomic risk information would be returned and expressed decreased willingness to undergo WGS if clinicians made these decisions (t(138) = -7.14, P <.01). Qualitative analysis showed that young adults emphasized procedural factors in WGS decision-making and that perceived health benefits of WGS had a substantial role in testing preferences and anticipated usage of WGS results. Conclusions Clinicians are likely to encounter enthusiasm for obtaining WGS results among young adults and may need to develop strategies for ensuring that this preference is adequately informed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H. Wade
- School of Nursing & Health Studies, University of Washington Bothell, Bothell, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kailyn R. Elliott
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Health Orientation, Knowledge, and Attitudes toward Genetic Testing and Personalized Genomic Services: Preliminary Data from an Italian Sample. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:6824581. [PMID: 28105428 PMCID: PMC5220460 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6824581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective. The study aims at assessing personality tendencies and orientations that could be closely correlated with knowledge, awareness, and interest toward undergoing genetic testing. Methods. A sample of 145 subjects in Italy completed an online survey, investigating demographic data, health orientation, level of perceived knowledge about genetic risk, genetic screening, and personal attitudes toward direct to consumer genetic testing (DTCGT). Results. Results showed that respondents considered genetic assessment to be helpful for disease prevention, but they were concerned that results could affect their life planning with little clinical utility. Furthermore, a very high percentage of respondents (67%) had never heard about genetic testing directly available to the public. Data showed that personality tendencies, such as personal health consciousness, health internal control, health esteem, and confidence, motivation to avoid unhealthiness and motivation for healthiness affected the uptake of genetic information and the interest in undergoing genetic testing. Conclusions. Public knowledge and attitudes toward genetic risk and genetic testing among European countries, along with individual personality and psychological tendencies that could affect these attitudes, remain unexplored. The present study constitutes one of the first attempts to investigate how such personality tendencies could motivation to undergo genetic testing and engagement in lifestyle changes.
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