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Fujiyoshi K, Sudo T, Fujita F, Tanihara S, Ishida H, Shichijo S, Chino A, Nagasaski T, Takao A, Sasaki K, Akagi K, Matsubara T, Ueno H, Hirata K, Miyakura Y, Ishikawa T, Sunami E, Takahashi Y, Yamaguchi T, Tanakaya K, Tomita N, Ajioka Y. Marital status after colorectal surgery in familial adenomatous polyposis: a nationwide multicenter study in Japan. Int J Clin Oncol 2024:10.1007/s10147-024-02558-4. [PMID: 38819608 DOI: 10.1007/s10147-024-02558-4] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) experience psychological and social challenges concerning future events such as marriage and childbirth alongside the medical risks of colorectal cancer (CRC) and FAP-related disease. We retrospectively investigated the rate of marriage and childbirth postoperatively in Japanese patients with FAP. METHODS We included 161 patients who had colorectal surgery and reported marital status from a national survey of 35 Japanese institutions. Participants were classified according to marital status: married before colectomy (80 patients), married after colectomy (13 patients), and unmarried (68 patients). RESULTS The marriage rate for all 161 patients (57.8%, standardized ratio 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76-1.14) was comparable to that in the general Japanese population (57.1%). The marriage rate among the 81 patients who were unmarried before colectomy was low (16.0%); however, the standardized marital ratio (0.75, 95% CI 0.34-1.15) was not significantly lower than that of the general population. In multivariable logistic regression, younger age (born after 1980, odds ratio [OR] 0.12, p < 0.001) and genetic testing (OR 4.06, p = 0.001) were associated with postoperative marriage. Seventy-one percent of patients with FAP who married after colectomy became pregnant and achieved delivery. CONCLUSIONS The marriage rate of patients with FAP was comparable to that of the general population whereas the rate after colectomy was low among patients with FAP. However, in patients with FAP, colorectal surgery itself may not lead to negative consequences in terms of fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Fujiyoshi
- Department of Surgery, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahimachi, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan.
| | - Tomoya Sudo
- Department of Surgery, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahimachi, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
| | - Fumihiko Fujita
- Department of Surgery, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahimachi, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Shinichi Tanihara
- Department of Public Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahimachi, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Ishida
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Digestive Tract and General Surgery, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, 1981 Kamoda, Kawagoe, 350-8550, Japan
| | - Satoki Shichijo
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-8567, Japan
| | - Akiko Chino
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cancer Institute Hospital of the Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31, Ariake, Koto, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Toshiya Nagasaski
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Cancer Institute Hospital of the Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31, Ariake, Koto, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Akinari Takao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer and Infectious Diseases Center Komagome Hospital, 3-18-22 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8677, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Sasaki
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Kiwamu Akagi
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Division of Molecular Diagnosis and Cancer Prevention, Saitama Cancer Center, 818 Komuro, Ina-machi, Kitaadachi-gun, Saitama, 362-0806, Japan
| | - Takaaki Matsubara
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Lower Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, 1-1 Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, 663-8501, Japan
| | - Hideki Ueno
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Keiji Hirata
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgery I, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, 1-1, Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka, 807-8555, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Miyakura
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Saitama Medical Center Jichi Medical University, 1-847 Amanuma-cho, Omiya-ku, Saitama-shi, Saitama, 330-0834, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Ishikawa
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Eiji Sunami
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Kyorin University School of Medicine, 6-20-2 Shinkawa, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, 181-0004, Japan
| | - Yusuke Takahashi
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, 2-1-1 Hoenzaka, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 540-0006, Japan
| | - Tatsuro Yamaguchi
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer and Infectious Diseases Center Komagome Hospital, 3-18-22 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8677, Japan
| | - Kohji Tanakaya
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Iwakuni Clinical Center, 1-1-1 Atago-cho, Iwakuni-shi, Yamaguchi, 740-8510, Japan
| | - Naohiro Tomita
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Cancer Treatment Center, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, 4-14-1 Shibahara-cho, Toyonaka-shi, Osaka, 560-8565, Japan
| | - Yoichi Ajioka
- Study Group for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, Sanbancho KS Building, 2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0075, Japan
- Division of Molecular and Diagnostic Pathology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 757 Ichibancho, Asahimachi-dori, Chuo Ward, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
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Malgorzata M, Maria S, Michał W. Genetic testing-whether to allow complete freedom? Direct to consumer tests versus genetic tests for medical purposes. J Appl Genet 2022; 63:119-126. [PMID: 34826052 PMCID: PMC8755658 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-021-00670-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Direct-to-consumer tests opened the opportunity of genetic testing without medical supervision, e.g., without medical referral and medical interpretation of the results. Thus, these approaches allow for free access to information concerning individual genetic profile increasing the area of personal freedom, but also posing the risk of false (positive and negative) or misinterpreted results along with health and psychological negative consequences. The paper discusses medical and non-medical applications of DTC, exploring also the legal framework implemented by European states and organizations. These legal acts strive to control the developing DTC market through such basic principles as patient protection, informed consent, medical information confidentiality, and the rights to know and to refuse knowledge about one's genetic predispositions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madej Malgorzata
- Institute of Political Science, University of Wroclaw, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Sąsiadek Maria
- Department of Genetics, Medical University of Wroclaw, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Witt Michał
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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3
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Martin AP, Downing J, Collins B, Godman B, Alfirevic A, Greenhalgh KL, Pirmohamed M. Examining the uptake of predictive BRCA testing in the UK; findings and implications. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 29:699-708. [PMID: 33328582 PMCID: PMC8115171 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-00783-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Predictive BRCA testing is offered to asymptomatic individuals to predict future risk where a variant has been identified in a relative. It is uncertain whether all eligible relatives access testing, and whether this is related to health care inequalities. Our aim was to analyse trends and inequalities in uptake of testing, and identify predictors of testing and time-to-receipt of testing. A database from April 2010 to March 2017 was collated. Multivariate analysis explored individual associations with testing. Predictor variables included gender, BRCA test type, cancer history, Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) and education status. To evaluate factors associated with time-to-testing, a Cox proportional-hazards (CP) model was used. Of 779 tests undertaken, 336 (43.1%) were identified with a BRCA variant. A total of 537 (68.9%) were female and in 83.4% (387/464) of probands, predictive testing was received by relatives. Analysis identified inequalities since decreased testing was found when the proband was unaffected by cancer (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.06-0.33). Median time-to-testing was 390 days (range, 0-7090 days) and the CP model also identified inequalities in the hazard ratio (HR) for testing for people aged >40 was higher than for aged <40 (HR 1.41, 95% CI 1.20-1.67) and BRCA2 testing was higher than for BRCA1 testing (HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.18-1.64). Reduced testing was found when probands were unaffected by cancer and time-to-testing was found to vary by age and BRCA1/2 test. Given limited study sample size, further research is recommended to examine inequalities in predictive BRCA testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antony P Martin
- National Institute for Health Research, Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, North West Coast (NIHR CLAHRC NWC), North West Coast, UK.
- Wolfson Centre for Personalised Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Jennifer Downing
- National Institute for Health Research, Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, North West Coast (NIHR CLAHRC NWC), North West Coast, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Personalised Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Brendan Collins
- Department of Public Health & Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Strathclyde University, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, South Africa
| | - Ana Alfirevic
- National Institute for Health Research, Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, North West Coast (NIHR CLAHRC NWC), North West Coast, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Personalised Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Munir Pirmohamed
- National Institute for Health Research, Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, North West Coast (NIHR CLAHRC NWC), North West Coast, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Personalised Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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4
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Huq AJ, Healy L, Gorelik A, Forrest LE, Winship IM. Mainstreaming genomics: training experience of hospital medical officers at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Intern Med J 2021; 51:268-271. [PMID: 33631848 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The rapid evolution and wide applicability of genomic testing means that medical practitioners outside the field are not appropriately skilled to understand the utility of genomics for their patients. Rotating junior doctors through genomic medicine provides them with the hands-on experience necessary to understand the complexities in this field. In this study, we analysed the training experience of 12 hospital medical officers who rotated through genomic medicine at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Here, we demonstrate that immersion in clinical genomics aids in mainstreaming genomics knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamira J Huq
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lachlan Healy
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexandra Gorelik
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura E Forrest
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Parkville Familial Cancer Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ingrid M Winship
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Drelles K, Pilarski R, Manickam K, Shoben AB, Toland AE. Impact of Previous Genetic Counseling and Objective Numeracy on Accurate Interpretation of a Pharmacogenetics Test Report. Public Health Genomics 2021; 24:26-32. [PMID: 33445171 DOI: 10.1159/000512476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing can be useful for providing information about a patient's drug response by increasing drug efficacy and decreasing the incidence of adverse drug events. While PGx tests were previously only offered to patients under healthcare provider supervision, they are now available as direct to consumer (DTC) tests. This study aimed to assess how accurately individuals from the general population were able to interpret a sample PGx test report and if accuracy differed based on individuals' numeracy or prior genetic counseling (GC). METHODS We surveyed 293 individuals from the general population, ascertained through ResearchMatch. The survey included questions about PGx test interpretation, numeracy, and genetic literacy. RESULTS In our cohort, numeracy level impacted PGx result interpretation, with those of high numeracy performing statistically significantly better on both the table format and graphical format (p value = 0.002 and p value <0.001, respectively) and genetic knowledge questions (p value <0.001) than those with low/average numeracy. In addition, previous GC did not impact test interpretation or genetic knowledge, but the number of individuals with prior GC was small (n = 26). DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION We found that numeracy had a significant impact on correct interpretation of PGx test reports. Because many individuals in the USA have low numeracy levels, it is extremely important that patients do not make their own medication management decision based on the test results and that they consult with their physicians about their PGx testing. The importance of consultation and discussion with providers about results should be emphasized on the test report.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Drelles
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Robert Pilarski
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kandamurugu Manickam
- Division of Genetic and Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Abigail B Shoben
- College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Amanda Ewart Toland
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA, .,Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Compehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA,
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6
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Whitley KV, Tueller JA, Weber KS. Genomics Education in the Era of Personal Genomics: Academic, Professional, and Public Considerations. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030768. [PMID: 31991576 PMCID: PMC7037382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003, genomic sequencing has become a prominent tool used by diverse disciplines in modern science. In the past 20 years, the cost of genomic sequencing has decreased exponentially, making it affordable and accessible. Bioinformatic and biological studies have produced significant scientific breakthroughs using the wealth of genomic information now available. Alongside the scientific benefit of genomics, companies offer direct-to-consumer genetic testing which provide health, trait, and ancestry information to the public. A key area that must be addressed is education about what conclusions can be made from this genomic information and integrating genomic education with foundational genetic principles already taught in academic settings. The promise of personal genomics providing disease treatment is exciting, but many challenges remain to validate genomic predictions and diagnostic correlations. Ethical and societal concerns must also be addressed regarding how personal genomic information is used. This genomics revolution provides a powerful opportunity to educate students, clinicians, and the public on scientific and ethical issues in a personal way to increase learning. In this review, we discuss the influence of personal genomics in society and focus on the importance and benefits of genomics education in the classroom, clinics, and the public and explore the potential consequences of personal genomic education.
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7
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Deininger KM, Tran JN, Tsunoda SM, Young GK, Lee YM, Anderson HD, Page II RL, Hirsch JD, Aquilante CL. Stakeholder perspectives of the clinical utility of pharmacogenomic testing in solid organ transplantation. Pharmacogenomics 2019; 20:1291-1302. [DOI: 10.2217/pgs-2019-0129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: To assess stakeholder perspectives regarding the clinical utility of pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing following kidney, liver, and heart transplantation. Methods: We conducted individual semi-structured interviews and focus groups with kidney, liver, and heart transplantation patients and providers. We analyzed the qualitative data to identify salient themes. Results: The study enrolled 36 patients and 24 providers. Patients lacked an understanding about PGx, but expressed interest in PGx testing. Providers expressed willingness to use PGx testing, but reported barriers to implementation, such as lack of knowledge, lack of evidence demonstrating clinical utility, and patient healthcare burden. Conclusion: Patient and provider educational efforts, including foundational knowledge, clinical evidence, and applications to patient care beyond just immunosuppression, may be useful to facilitate the use of PGx testing in transplant medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly M Deininger
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jacinda N Tran
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Shirley M Tsunoda
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Gordon K Young
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Yee Ming Lee
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Heather D Anderson
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Robert L Page II
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jan D Hirsch
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Christina L Aquilante
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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8
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Physician Experience with Direct-To-Consumer Genetic Testing in Kaiser Permanente. J Pers Med 2019; 9:jpm9040047. [PMID: 31683813 PMCID: PMC6963876 DOI: 10.3390/jpm9040047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Health systems and physicians nationwide aspire to consistently and reliably apply genetic and genomic information to guide disease prevention, management, and treatment. However, clinical information, including genetics/genomics data from within and outside of the care delivery system, is expanding rapidly. Between November 2017 and April 2018, we surveyed 1502 Permanente Medical Group primary care and specialist physicians to assess the degree to which direct-to-consumer genetic test results were being presented to physicians and identify genetics educational needs among physicians (response rate 15%). Adjusted logistic regression (according to respondent characteristics) was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) comparing responses within groups. Results showed 35% and 12% of respondents reported receiving at least one direct-to-consumer health risk genetic result (DTC-health risk) or direct-to-consumer pharmacogenomic test result (DTC-PGx), respectively, from a patient in the past year. Of those receiving at least one test result, 40% (DTC-health risk) and 39% (DTC-PGx) of physicians reported 1+ referral(s); 78% (DTC-health risk) and 42% (DTC-PGx) of referrals were to clinical genetics. In total, 85% of physicians would spend ≥2 h/year on genetics/genomics education.
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9
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Roberts MC, Allen CG, Andersen BL. The FDA authorization of direct-to-consumer genetic testing for three BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants: a twitter analysis of the public's response. JAMIA Open 2019; 2:411-415. [PMID: 32025636 PMCID: PMC6993995 DOI: 10.1093/jamiaopen/ooz037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives In March 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its authorization of a direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic test for three pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants. We sought to determine to whether social media discussion increased following the authorization, who was driving social media conversations, and what topics were discussed. Methods Using Crimson Hexagon, we described tweets before, during, and after the FDA announcement authorizing 23andMe to return BRCA1/2 results (3/4/18–3/10/18). We conducted qualitative coding of a subset of 605 tweets to better understand Twitter communication. Results We identified 11 055 twitter posts across the week of FDA’s announcement. Twitter discourse about 23andMe and the FDA authorization peaked the day following the FDA’s press release. Most tweets (48.6%) were informational and 26.3% were either expressing opinions (about 23andMe and/or FDA authorization, 14.9%) or testimonials (personal experiences with genetic testing, 11.4%). The types of tweets varied over the week-long period (P < .001). Discussion Twitter discussion about the FDA’s authorization of DTC for three pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants increased immediately following the announcement. As more genetic technologies are brought to the DTC market, social media sites, like Twitter, will play a role in disseminating this information, providing a platform for information exchange, consumer testimonials, opinion pieces, and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan C Roberts
- The National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Caitlin G Allen
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Brittany L Andersen
- Boston University College of Communication, Division of Emerging Media Studies, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Crawford DC, Cooke Bailey JN, Briggs FBS. Mind the gap: resources required to receive, process and interpret research-returned whole genome data. Hum Genet 2019; 138:691-701. [PMID: 31161416 PMCID: PMC6767905 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-019-02033-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Most genotype-phenotype studies have historically lacked population diversity, impacting the generalizability of findings and thereby limiting the ability to equitably implement precision medicine. This well-documented problem has generated much interest in the ascertainment of new cohorts with an emphasis on multiple dimensions of diversity, including race/ethnicity, gender, age, socioeconomic status, disability, and geography. The most well known of these new cohort efforts is arguably All of Us, formerly known as the Precision Medicine Cohort Initiative Program. All of Us intends to ascertain at least one million participants in the United States representative of the multiple dimensions of diversity. As an incentive to participate, All of Us is offering the return of research results, including whole genome sequencing data, as well as the opportunity to contribute to the scientific process as non-scientists. The scale and scope of the proposed return of research results are unprecedented. Here, we briefly review possible return of genetic data models, including the likely data file formats and modes of data transfer or access. We also review the resources required to access and interpret the genetic or genomic data once received by the average participant, highlighting the nuanced anticipated barriers that will challenge both the digitally, computationally literate and illiterate participant alike. This inventory of resources required to receive, process, and interpret return of research results exposes the potential for access disparities and warns the scientific community to mind the gap so that all participants have equal access and understanding of the benefits of human genetic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana C Crawford
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Cleveland Institute for Computational Biology, Case Western Reserve University, 2103 Cornell Road. Wolstein Research Building, Suite 2-527, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Jessica N Cooke Bailey
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Cleveland Institute for Computational Biology, Case Western Reserve University, 2103 Cornell Road. Wolstein Research Building, Suite 2-527, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Farren B S Briggs
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Cleveland Institute for Computational Biology, Case Western Reserve University, 2103 Cornell Road. Wolstein Research Building, Suite 2-527, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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Canedo JR, Miller ST, Myers HF, Sanderson M. Racial and ethnic differences in knowledge and attitudes about genetic testing in the US: Systematic review. J Genet Couns 2019; 28:587-601. [PMID: 30663831 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Precision medicine has grown over the past 20 years with the availability of genetic tests and has changed the one-size-fits-all paradigm in medicine. Precision medicine innovations, such as newly available genetic tests, could potentially widen racial and ethnic disparities if access to them is unequal and if interest to use them differs across groups. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize existing evidence on racial and ethnic differences in knowledge of and attitudes toward genetic testing among adult patients and the general public in the US, focusing on research about the use of genetic testing in general, not disease-specific tests. Twelve articles published in 1997-2017 met inclusion and exclusion criteria, with 10 including knowledge variables and seven including attitude variables. Studies found consistent patterns of lower awareness of genetic testing in general among non-Whites compared to Whites, lower factual knowledge scores among Blacks and Hispanics/Latinos, and mixed findings of differences in awareness of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing or the term precision medicine. Blacks, Hispanics/Latinos, and non-Whites generally had more concerns about genetic testing than Whites. The findings suggest that patients and the general public need access to culturally appropriate educational material about the use of genetic testing in precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan R Canedo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | | - Hector F Myers
- Center for Medicine, Health and Society, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Maureen Sanderson
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee
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12
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Apathy NC, Menser T, Keeran LM, Ford EW, Harle CA, Huerta TR. Trends and Gaps in Awareness of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Tests From 2007 to 2014. Am J Prev Med 2018; 54:806-813. [PMID: 29656919 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2018.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-to-consumer genetic tests for inherited disease risks have gained recent approvals from the Food and Drug Administration, and interest in these tests has continued to grow. Broad use of these tests coupled with planning and discussion with health providers regarding genetic risks and potential protective behavior changes have been proposed as preventive tools to reduce health disparities and improve equity in health outcomes. However, awareness of direct-to-consumer genetic testing has historically demonstrated differences by education, income, and race; these disparities could jeopardize potential benefits by limiting access and use. METHODS The national survey data from the Health Information National Trends Survey was analyzed to understand how overall awareness of direct-to-consumer genetic testing and disparities in awareness across sociodemographic groups have changed since 2007. RESULTS The findings showed persistent disparities, as well as a widening gap in awareness between Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites (OR2007 =1.52, OR2014 =0.58, pchange =0.0056), despite overall increases in awareness over time. CONCLUSIONS Given these findings, policies regulating direct-to-consumer genetic tests should prioritize equitable distribution of benefits by including provisions that counteract prevailing disparities in awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nate C Apathy
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Terri Menser
- Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas
| | - Lindsay M Keeran
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Eric W Ford
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Christopher A Harle
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana; Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Timothy R Huerta
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
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Gollust SE, Gray SW, Carere DA, Koenig BA, Lehmann LS, McGUIRE AL, Sharp RR, Spector-Bagdady K, Wang NA, Green RC, Roberts JS. Consumer Perspectives on Access to Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing: Role of Demographic Factors and the Testing Experience. Milbank Q 2018; 95:291-318. [PMID: 28589610 DOI: 10.1111/1468-0009.12262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stacy W Gray
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Beckman Research Institute
| | | | | | | | - Amy L McGUIRE
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine
| | | | | | - N A Wang
- Data Coordinating Center, Boston University School of Public Health
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- see acknowledgments for list of nonauthor members of the PGen Study Group
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Moss HA, Samimi G, Havrilesky LJ, Sherman ME, Myers ER. Estimating the number of potential family members eligible for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation testing in a "Traceback" approach. Genet Epidemiol 2017; 42:117-122. [PMID: 29193313 DOI: 10.1002/gepi.22095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
U.S. guidelines recommend BRCA1/2 mutation testing for women diagnosed with high-grade ovarian cancer (HGOC) to increase recognition of carriers, but most remain unidentified and at risk. Accordingly, an approach termed "Traceback" has been proposed in which probands are retrospectively identified by testing archived pathology specimens, and family members are traced to provide genetic counseling and testing. We used population-based data to estimate the number of family members who might be contacted through such a program. We used incidence data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program to estimate the number of women diagnosed with HGOC from 2005 to 2016, and census data to estimate the number of spouses, offspring, and siblings (both sexes). Using overall survival for HGOC from SEER and all-cause mortality rates from the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention, we estimated the number of patients, spouses, offspring, and siblings of HGOC cases living in 2017. Due to the high mortality rate of HGOC, consent from living probands may be possible in only 42% of the cases; consent to test pathology specimens would need to be sought from next of kin for the remainder. In 2017, an estimated 406,919 living next of kin (spouses, siblings, offspring) would be available for potential consent. Testing archived ovarian cancer pathology specimens may enable the identification of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, but consent from next of kin would be required in in 58% of cases. Although Traceback offers the possibility of identifying unaffected BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, pilot feasibility studies that include assessment of methods to secure consent are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Goli Samimi
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
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15
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Racial minority group interest in direct-to-consumer genetic testing: findings from the PGen study. J Community Genet 2017; 8:293-301. [PMID: 28868574 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-017-0325-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is little information regarding direct-to-consumer (DTC) personal genetic testing (PGT) in non-White racial minorities. Using a web-based survey, we compared the pretest interests and attitudes toward DTC-PGT of racial minority and White DTC-PGT customers of 23andMe and Pathway Genomics using chi-square tests and multinomial regression. Data were available for 1487 participants (1389 White, 44 Black, and 54 Asian). Survey responses were similar across racial groups, although a greater proportion of Blacks compared to Whites reported being "very interested" in genetic information related to traits (91.9 vs. 70.8%, p = 0.009). A greater proportion of Asians compared to Whites reported that a "very important" consideration for pursuing DTC-PGT was limited information about their family health history (58.0 vs. 37.5%, p = 0.002). While a number of significant differences between groups were observed in unadjusted analyses, they did not remain significant after adjustment. This study provides a preliminary view of the interests for purchasing DTC-PGT among customers with racial minority backgrounds.
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Hamilton JG, Abdiwahab E, Edwards HM, Fang ML, Jdayani A, Breslau ES. Primary care providers' cancer genetic testing-related knowledge, attitudes, and communication behaviors: A systematic review and research agenda. J Gen Intern Med 2017; 32:315-324. [PMID: 27995427 PMCID: PMC5331015 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-016-3943-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary care providers (PCPs) can play a critical role in helping patients receive the preventive health benefits of cancer genetic risk information. Thus, the objective of this systematic review was to identify studies of US PCPs' knowledge, attitudes, and communication-related behaviors regarding genetic tests that could inform risk-stratification approaches for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer screening in order to describe current findings and research gaps. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of six electronic databases to identify peer-reviewed empirical articles relating to US PCPs and genetic testing for breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer published in English from 2008 to 2016. We reviewed these data and used narrative synthesis methods to integrate findings into a descriptive summary and identify research needs. RESULTS We identified 27 relevant articles. Most focused on genetic testing for breast cancer (23/27) and colorectal cancer risk (12/27); only one study examined testing for prostate cancer risk. Most articles addressed descriptive research questions (24/27). Many studies (24/27) documented PCPs' knowledge, often concluding that providers' knowledge was incomplete. Studies commonly (11/27) examined PCPs' attitudes. Across studies, PCPs expressed some concerns about ethical, legal, and social implications of testing. Attitudes about the utility of clinical genetic testing, including for targeted cancer screening, were generally favorable; PCPs were more skeptical of direct-to-consumer testing. Relatively fewer studies (9/27) examined PCPs' communication practices regarding cancer genetic testing. DISCUSSION This review indicates a need for investigators to move beyond descriptive research questions related to PCPs' knowledge and attitudes about cancer genetic testing. Research is needed to address important gaps regarding the development, testing, and implementation of innovative interventions and educational programs that can improve PCPs' genetic testing knowledge, assuage concerns about the appropriateness of cancer genetic testing, and promote open and effective patient-provider communication about genetic risk and genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jada G Hamilton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Ekland Abdiwahab
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Min-Lin Fang
- UCSF Library, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrew Jdayani
- Torrance Health IPA, Torrance Memorial Health System, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Erica S Breslau
- Healthcare Delivery Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
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17
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Nakashita C, Fujiwara Y, Lu X, Hisada A, Miyazaki W, Katoh T. Survey on the Awareness of Genetic Testing in Japanese Workers: The Effect of Participant Characteristics on Awareness. Nihon Eiseigaku Zasshi 2016; 71:133-7. [PMID: 27246152 DOI: 10.1265/jjh.71.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to assess the possibility of utilization of genetic testing and to determine the effect of participant characteristics on genetic testing awareness in Japanese workers. METHODS The subjects of this study consisted of 998 workers from two companies located in Kyusyu, Japan, from June to July, 2014. We examined the participant characteristics and genetic testing awareness using paper questionnaires. Ultimately, the data from 737 subjects (73.8%) was included in our analysis. RESULTS Regarding participant characteristics, the percentage of respondents who replied "I have heard of genetic testing" (including knowledge about genetic testing) and "I would like to have genetic testing" were 82.5% and 58.2%, respectively. A significant age difference in genetic testing awareness was also observed in our study. Logistic regression analysis revealed both significant adjust odds ratios (ORs) of 3.02 (95% CI 1.67-5.46) and 3.82 (95% CI 1.71-8.53) in the 40-49-year-old group and the over 50 year old group, respectively, compared with the 20-29-year-old group. In addition, females and the participants who graduated from graduate schools showed greater interest in genetic testing. CONCLUSIONS This survey showed that about 80% of Japanese workers know about genetic testing and about 60% would like to have a test. The results of our survey also suggest that the awareness of genetic testing is influenced by participant characteristics, namely age, sex, and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Nakashita
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University
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18
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Mählmann L, Röcke C, Brand A, Hafen E, Vayena E. Attitudes towards personal genomics among older Swiss adults: An exploratory study. Appl Transl Genom 2016; 8:9-15. [PMID: 27047754 PMCID: PMC4796807 DOI: 10.1016/j.atg.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore attitudes of Swiss older adults towards personal genomics (PG). METHODS Using an anonymized voluntary paper-and-pencil survey, data were collected from 151 men and women aged 60-89 years attending the Seniorenuniversität Zurich, Switzerland (Seniors' University). Analyses were conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS One third of the respondents were aware of PG, and more than half indicated interest in undergoing PG testing. The primary motivation provided was respondents' interest in finding out about their own disease risk, followed by willingness to contribute to scientific research. Forty-four percent were not interested in undergoing testing because results might be worrisome, or due to concerns about the validity of the results. Only a minority of respondents mentioned privacy-related concerns. Further, 66% were interested in undergoing clinic-based PG motivated by the opportunity to contribute to scientific research (78%) and 75% of all study participants indicated strong preferences to donate genomic data to public research institutions. CONCLUSION This study indicates a relatively positive overall attitude towards personal genomic testing among older Swiss adults, a group not typically represented in surveys about personal genomics. Genomic data of older adults can be highly relevant to late life health and maintenance of quality of life. In addition they can be an invaluable source for better understanding of longevity, health and disease. Understanding the attitudes of this population towards genomic analyses, although important, remains under-examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mählmann
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Auguste-Piccard-Hof 1, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute for Public Health Genomics, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Christina Röcke
- University Research Priority Program “Dynamics of Healthy Aging”, University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse 15/Box 2, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angela Brand
- Institute for Public Health Genomics, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ernst Hafen
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, Auguste-Piccard-Hof 1, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Effy Vayena
- Health Ethics and Policy Lab, Institute of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention, University of Zurich, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
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Covolo L, Rubinelli S, Ceretti E, Gelatti U. Internet-Based Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing: A Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2015; 17:e279. [PMID: 26677835 PMCID: PMC4704942 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.4378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Direct-to-consumer genetic tests (DTC-GT) are easily purchased through the Internet, independent of a physician referral or approval for testing, allowing the retrieval of genetic information outside the clinical context. There is a broad debate about the testing validity, their impact on individuals, and what people know and perceive about them. Objective The aim of this review was to collect evidence on DTC-GT from a comprehensive perspective that unravels the complexity of the phenomenon. Methods A systematic search was carried out through PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and Embase, in addition to Google Scholar according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist with the key term “Direct-to-consumer genetic test.” Results In the final sample, 118 articles were identified. Articles were summarized in five categories according to their focus on (1) knowledge of, attitude toward use of, and perception of DTC-GT (n=37), (2) the impact of genetic risk information on users (n=37), (3) the opinion of health professionals (n=20), (4) the content of websites selling DTC-GT (n=16), and (5) the scientific evidence and clinical utility of the tests (n=14). Most of the articles analyzed the attitude, knowledge, and perception of DTC-GT, highlighting an interest in using DTC-GT, along with the need for a health care professional to help interpret the results. The articles investigating the content analysis of the websites selling these tests are in agreement that the information provided by the companies about genetic testing is not completely comprehensive for the consumer. Given that risk information can modify consumers’ health behavior, there are surprisingly few studies carried out on actual consumers and they do not confirm the overall concerns on the possible impact of DTC-GT. Data from studies that investigate the quality of the tests offered confirm that they are not informative, have little predictive power, and do not measure genetic risk appropriately. Conclusions The impact of DTC-GT on consumers’ health perceptions and behaviors is an emerging concern. However, negative effects on consumers or health benefits have yet to be observed. Nevertheless, since the online market of DTC-GT is expected to grow, it is important to remain aware of a possible impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Covolo
- Unit of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Italy, Brescia, Italy.
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Agurs-Collins T, Ferrer R, Ottenbacher A, Waters EA, O'Connell ME, Hamilton JG. Public Awareness of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Tests: Findings from the 2013 U.S. Health Information National Trends Survey. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2015; 30:799-807. [PMID: 25600375 PMCID: PMC4508242 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-014-0784-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Although the availability of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing has increased in recent years, the general public's awareness of this testing is not well understood. This study examined levels of public awareness of DTC genetic testing, sources of information about testing, and psychosocial factors associated with awareness of testing in the USA. Data were obtained from the nationally representative 2013 U.S. Health Information National Trends Survey. Guided by a social-cognitive conceptual framework, univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were conducted to identify factors associated with awareness of DTC genetic tests. Of 3185 participants, 35.6% were aware of DTC genetic tests, with the majority learning about these tests through radio, television, and the Internet. In the final adjusted model, participants with annual incomes of $99,999 or less had lower odds of being aware of DTC genetic testing (ORs ranging from 0.46-0.61) than did those participants with incomes of $100,000 or more. The odds of awareness of DTC genetic tests were significantly higher for those who actively seek cancer information (OR=1.91, 95% CI=1.36-2.69), use the Internet (OR=1.81, 95% CI=1.05-3.13), and have high numeracy skills (OR=1.67, 95% CI=1.17-2.38). It will be critical for healthcare researchers and practitioners to understand predictors and consequences of the public's awareness of DTC genetic tests, as well as how such awareness may translate into DTC genetic testing uptake, health behavior change, and ultimately disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Agurs-Collins
- Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Rebecca Ferrer
- Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Erika A Waters
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Mary E O'Connell
- Behavioral Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jada G Hamilton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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Taber JM, Chang CQ, Lam TK, Gillanders EM, Hamilton JG, Schully SD. Prevalence and correlates of receiving and sharing high-penetrance cancer genetic test results: findings from the Health Information National Trends Survey. Public Health Genomics 2015; 18:67-77. [PMID: 25427996 DOI: 10.1159/000368745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and correlates of receiving and sharing high-penetrance cancer genetic test results. METHODS Participants completed the population-based, cross-sectional 2013 Health Information National Trends Survey. We examined sociodemographic characteristics of participants reporting having had BRCA1/2 or Lynch syndrome genetic testing, and sociodemographic and psychosocial correlates of sharing test results with health professionals and family members. RESULTS Participants who underwent BRCA1/2 or Lynch syndrome genetic testing (n = 77; 2.42% of respondents) were more likely to be female and to have a family or personal history of cancer than those not undergoing testing. Approximately three-quarters of participants shared results with health professionals and three-quarters with their family; only 4% did not share results with anyone. Participants who shared results with health professionals reported greater optimism, self-efficacy for health management, and trust in information from their doctors. Participants who shared results with their family were more likely to be female and to have a personal history of cancer, and had greater self-efficacy for health management, perceived less ambiguity in cancer prevention recommendations, and lower cancer prevention fatalism. CONCLUSIONS We identified several novel psychosocial correlates of sharing genetic information. Health professionals may use this information to identify patients less likely to share information with at-risk family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Taber
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Room 3E642, Bethesda, MD 20892-9761 (USA). Jennifer.taber @ nih.gov
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22
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Graves KD, Sinicrope PS, McCormick JB, Zhou Y, Vadaparampil ST, Lindor NM. Public Perceptions of Disease Severity but Not Actionability Correlate with Interest in Receiving Genomic Results: Nonalignment with Current Trends in Practice. Public Health Genomics 2015; 18:173-83. [DOI: 10.1159/000375479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Janssens S, Kalokairinou L, Chokoshvilli D, Binst C, Mahieu I, Henneman L, De Paepe A, Borry P. Attitudes of cystic fibrosis patients and their parents towards direct-to-consumer genetic testing for carrier status. Per Med 2015; 12:99-107. [DOI: 10.2217/pme.14.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: An increasing number of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing companies have started offering tests for carrier status of autosomal recessive disorders. Materials & Methods: A written questionnaire was administered to 47 patients and 65 parents of children with Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a common severe autosomal recessive disorder, to assess their views about the offer of DTC carrier tests. All participants were recruited from a CF patient registry in Belgium. Results & Conclusion: We found that very few patients and parents were aware of the offer of DTC genetic testing for carrier status, and were generally skeptical. A strong preference for the healthcare system over commercial companies as the provider of the test was observed. However, many participants believe people should have a right to access DTC genetic tests provided by commercial companies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Janssens
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Louiza Kalokairinou
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics & Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 BOX 7001 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Davit Chokoshvilli
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics & Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 BOX 7001 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Carmen Binst
- Department of Life Sciences & Medicine, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Inge Mahieu
- Department of Life Sciences & Medicine, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Community Genetics Section, Department of Clinical Genetics, EMGO Institute for Health & Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anne De Paepe
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pascal Borry
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics & Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 BOX 7001 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Carere DA, Couper MP, Crawford SD, Kalia SS, Duggan JR, Moreno TA, Mountain JL, Roberts JS, Green RC. Design, methods, and participant characteristics of the Impact of Personal Genomics (PGen) Study, a prospective cohort study of direct-to-consumer personal genomic testing customers. Genome Med 2014; 6:96. [PMID: 25484922 PMCID: PMC4256737 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-014-0096-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Designed in collaboration with 23andMe and Pathway Genomics, the Impact of Personal Genomics (PGen) Study serves as a model for academic-industry partnership and provides a longitudinal dataset for studying psychosocial, behavioral, and health outcomes related to direct-to-consumer personal genomic testing (PGT). Web-based surveys administered at three time points, and linked to individual-level PGT results, provide data on 1,464 PGT customers, of which 71% completed each follow-up survey and 64% completed all three surveys. The cohort includes 15.7% individuals of non-white ethnicity, and encompasses a range of income, education, and health levels. Over 90% of participants agreed to re-contact for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna Alexis Carere
- Department of Epidemiology, Program in Genetic Epidemiology and Statistical Genetics, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115 USA ; Department of Medicine, Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, EC Alumnae Building, Suite 301, 41 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Mick P Couper
- Survey Research Center, University of Michigan Institute for Social Research, Ann Arbor, MI 48106 USA
| | | | - Sarah S Kalia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, EC Alumnae Building, Suite 301, 41 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Jake R Duggan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, EC Alumnae Building, Suite 301, 41 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | | | | | - J Scott Roberts
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 USA
| | - Robert C Green
- Department of Medicine, Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, EC Alumnae Building, Suite 301, 41 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115 USA ; Harvard Medical School, EC Alumnae Building, Suite 301, 41 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115 USA ; Partners Personalized Medicine, EC Alumnae Building, Suite 301, 41 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115 USA
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25
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Promoting healthy dietary behaviour through personalised nutrition: technology push or technology pull? Proc Nutr Soc 2014; 74:171-6. [PMID: 25342299 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665114001529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The notion of educating the public through generic healthy eating messages has pervaded dietary health promotion efforts over the years and continues to do so through various media, despite little evidence for any enduring impact upon eating behaviour. There is growing evidence, however, that tailored interventions such as those that could be delivered online can be effective in bringing about healthy dietary behaviour change. The present paper brings together evidence from qualitative and quantitative studies that have considered the public perspective of genomics, nutrigenomics and personalised nutrition, including those conducted as part of the EU-funded Food4Me project. Such studies have consistently indicated that although the public hold positive views about nutrigenomics and personalised nutrition, they have reservations about the service providers' ability to ensure the secure handling of health data. Technological innovation has driven the concept of personalised nutrition forward and now a further technological leap is required to ensure the privacy of online service delivery systems and to protect data gathered in the process of designing personalised nutrition therapies.
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Wolfe CR, Reyna VF, Widmer CL, Cedillos EM, Fisher CR, Brust-Renck PG, Weil AM. Efficacy of a web-based intelligent tutoring system for communicating genetic risk of breast cancer: a fuzzy-trace theory approach. Med Decis Making 2014; 35:46-59. [PMID: 24829276 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x14535983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND . Many healthy women consider genetic testing for breast cancer risk, yet BRCA testing issues are complex. OBJECTIVE . To determine whether an intelligent tutor, BRCA Gist, grounded in fuzzy-trace theory (FTT), increases gist comprehension and knowledge about genetic testing for breast cancer risk, improving decision making. DESIGN . In 2 experiments, 410 healthy undergraduate women were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: an online module using a Web-based tutoring system (BRCA Gist) that uses artificial intelligence technology, a second group read highly similar content from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Web site, and a third that completed an unrelated tutorial. INTERVENTION . BRCA Gist applied FTT and was designed to help participants develop gist comprehension of topics relevant to decisions about BRCA genetic testing, including how breast cancer spreads, inherited genetic mutations, and base rates. MEASURES . We measured content knowledge, gist comprehension of decision-relevant information, interest in testing, and genetic risk and testing judgments. RESULTS . Control knowledge scores ranged from 54% to 56%, NCI improved significantly to 65% and 70%, and BRCA Gist improved significantly more to 75% and 77%, P < 0.0001. BRCA Gist scored higher on gist comprehension than NCI and control, P < 0.0001. Control genetic risk-assessment mean was 48% correct; BRCA Gist (61%) and NCI (56%) were significantly higher, P < 0.0001. BRCA Gist participants recommended less testing for women without risk factors (not good candidates; 24% and 19%) than controls (50%, both experiments) and NCI (32%), experiment 2, P < 0.0001. BRCA Gist testing interest was lower than in controls, P < 0.0001. LIMITATIONS . BRCA Gist has not been tested with older women from diverse groups. CONCLUSIONS . Intelligent tutors, such as BRCA Gist, are scalable, cost-effective ways of helping people understand complex issues, improving decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Wolfe
- Department of Psychology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA (CRW, CLW, EMC, CRF, AMW)
| | - Valerie F Reyna
- Department of Human Development, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA (VFR, PGB-R),Human Neuroscience Institute, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA (VFR)
| | - Colin L Widmer
- Department of Psychology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA (CRW, CLW, EMC, CRF, AMW)
| | - Elizabeth M Cedillos
- Department of Psychology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA (CRW, CLW, EMC, CRF, AMW)
| | - Christopher R Fisher
- Department of Psychology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA (CRW, CLW, EMC, CRF, AMW)
| | | | - Audrey M Weil
- Department of Psychology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA (CRW, CLW, EMC, CRF, AMW)
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Awareness of cancer susceptibility genetic testing: the 2000, 2005, and 2010 National Health Interview Surveys. Am J Prev Med 2014; 46:440-8. [PMID: 24745633 PMCID: PMC4042677 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic testing for several cancer susceptibility syndromes is clinically available; however, existing data suggest limited population awareness of such tests. PURPOSE To examine awareness regarding cancer genetic testing in the U.S. population aged ≥25 years in the 2000, 2005, and 2010 National Health Interview Surveys. METHODS The weighted percentages of respondents aware of cancer genetic tests, and percent changes from 2000-2005 and 2005-2010, overall and by demographic, family history, and healthcare factors were calculated. Interactions were used to evaluate the patterns of change in awareness between 2005 and 2010 among subgroups within each factor. To evaluate associations with awareness in 2005 and 2010, percentages were adjusted for covariates using multiple logistic regression. The analysis was performed in 2012. RESULTS Awareness decreased from 44.4% to 41.5% (p<0.001) between 2000 and 2005, and increased to 47.0% (p<0.001) in 2010. Awareness increased between 2005 and 2010 in most subgroups, particularly among individuals in the South (pinteraction=0.03) or with a usual place of care (pinteraction=0.01). In 2005 and 2010, awareness was positively associated with personal or family cancer history and high perceived cancer risk, and inversely associated with racial/ethnic minorities, age 25-39 or ≥60 years, male gender, lower education and income levels, public or no health insurance, and no provider contact in 12 months. CONCLUSIONS Despite improvement from 2005 to 2010, ≤50% of the U.S. adult population was aware of cancer genetic testing in 2010. Notably, disparities persist for racial/ethnic minorities and individuals with limited health care access or income.
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Vayena E, Ineichen C, Stoupka E, Hafen E. Playing a part in research? University students' attitudes to direct-to-consumer genomics. Public Health Genomics 2014; 17:158-68. [PMID: 24777115 DOI: 10.1159/000360257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS This study examined the attitudes of 1,146 Swiss University students to direct-to-consumer (DTC) genomic testing and to genomic research participation. METHODS Data were collected through a self-completion online questionnaire by students from 2 higher education institutions in Zurich, Switzerland. The survey aimed to capture motivation for undergoing or refraining from genomic testing, reactions to mock genetic risk results, and views about contributing data to scientific research. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the analysis. RESULTS A total of 1.5% of the students had undergone testing. Most respondents were studying natural sciences and were interested in undergoing DTC genomic testing. The main motive was to contribute their data to scientific research, followed closely by their interest to find out disease risks and personal traits. Overall, 41% of the respondents were not interested in DTC tests. The primary reasons were concerns about receiving potentially worrying results. There was a significant correlation between studying natural sciences, as opposed to the humanities, and interest in undergoing testing. Male respondents were more interested in testing compared to females. There was a strong interest in genetic research participation and notably limited privacy concerns. CONCLUSION Although 59% of the respondents were interested in DTC genomic testing, they were not likely to be affected by them or act upon them. This raises questions about concerns relating to potential risks of DTC genomics users and users' understanding of genetic information including their awareness of privacy risks. Furthermore, the strong interest in genetic research participation signals an underexplored personal utility of genomic testing which needs to be both better understood and better harnessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Effy Vayena
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Hurlimann T, Menuz V, Graham J, Robitaille J, Vohl MC, Godard B. Risks of nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics? What the scientists say. GENES AND NUTRITION 2013; 9:370. [PMID: 24293399 DOI: 10.1007/s12263-013-0370-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 10/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics (hereafter NGx) have stimulated expectations for beneficial applications in public health and individuals. Yet, the potential achievability of such promise is not without socioethical considerations that challenge NGx implementation. This paper focuses on the opinions of NGx researchers about potential risks raised by NGx. The results of an online survey show that these researchers (n = 126) are fairly confident about the potential benefits of NGx, and that most downplay its potential risks. Researchers in this field do not believe that NGx will reconfigure foods as medication or transform the conception of eating into a health hazard. The majority think that NGx will produce no added burden on individuals to get tested or to remain compliant with NGx recommendations, nor that NGx will threaten individual autonomy in daily food choice. The majority of researchers do not think that NGx will lead to discrimination against and/or stigmatization of people who do not comply with NGx dietary recommendations. Despite this optimism among NGx researchers, we suggest that key risk factors raised by the socioethical context in which NGx applications will be implemented need to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Hurlimann
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Bioethics Programmes, School of Public Health (ESPUM), University of Montreal, C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville, Montreal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada
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Bartlett G, Avard D, Knoppers BM. A new twist on an old problem: primary care physicians and results from direct-to-consumer genetic testing. Per Med 2013; 10:827-833. [PMID: 29776277 DOI: 10.2217/pme.13.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
With the costs of genomic and genetic testing rapidly decreasing, private companies have begun to offer consumers, including minors, the opportunity to receive a genetic analysis of their DNA. The availability of direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT) will inevitably result in patients approaching their healthcare providers for interpretation of results, referrals for follow-up tests or provision of personalized medicine. As most healthcare systems require a referral for access to a specialist, the patients are likely to approach primary care providers. The issue of what the professional obligations are for the primary care physician in the case where they did not order the test is not new. The growing DTC-GT movement will add a 'new twist to an old problem.' Best practice recommendations regarding the value of DTC-GT, as well as the identification of current ethical, legal and social implications are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Bartlett
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, 5858 Cote-des-Neiges, Suite 300, Montreal, Quebec, H3S 1Z1, Canada.
| | - Denise Avard
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Centre of Genomics & Policy,740 Avenue Drive, Penfield, Suite 5200, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G1, Canada
| | - Bartha Maria Knoppers
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Centre of Genomics & Policy,740 Avenue Drive, Penfield, Suite 5200, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G1, Canada
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31
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Roberts JS, Ostergren J. Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing and Personal Genomics Services: A Review of Recent Empirical Studies. CURRENT GENETIC MEDICINE REPORTS 2013; 1:182-200. [PMID: 24058877 PMCID: PMC3777821 DOI: 10.1007/s40142-013-0018-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT) has sparked much controversy and undergone dramatic changes in its brief history. Debates over appropriate health policies regarding DTC-GT would benefit from empirical research on its benefits, harms, and limitations. We review the recent literature (2011-present) and summarize findings across (1) content analyses of DTC-GT websites, (2) studies of consumer perspectives and experiences, and (3) surveys of relevant health care providers. Findings suggest that neither the health benefits envisioned by DTC-GT proponents (e.g., significant improvements in positive health behaviors) nor the worst fears expressed by its critics (e.g., catastrophic psychological distress and misunderstanding of test results, undue burden on the health care system) have materialized to date. However, research in this area is in its early stages and possesses numerous key limitations. We note needs for future studies to illuminate the impact of DTC-GT and thereby guide practice and policy regarding this rapidly evolving approach to personal genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Scott Roberts
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jenny Ostergren
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Howard HC, Borry P. Survey of European clinical geneticists on awareness, experiences and attitudes towards direct-to-consumer genetic testing. Genome Med 2013; 5:45. [PMID: 23697740 PMCID: PMC3706958 DOI: 10.1186/gm449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Revised: 04/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The advent of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing (GT) has sparked a number of debates regarding the scientific validity of tests, their broad health and ethical implications for society as well as their legal status. To date, relatively few empirical studies have been published regarding this phenomenon. We conducted a survey of European clinical geneticists to gauge their awareness of, experiences with, and attitudes towards DTC GT. METHODS We invited 300 clinical geneticists from 28 European countries to complete an online questionnaire. Statistical analyses of closed-ended questions were performed using the STATISTICA software package. Answers to open-ended questions were analysed for recurring themes. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-one clinical geneticists answered our survey (response rate, 44%). Eighty-six percent (110/128) of respondents were aware of DTC GT, and over one-third had been contacted by at least one patient regarding these services. The majority (84%) of respondents did not agree with telephone medical supervision outside of an established doctor-patient relationship. The majority of clinical geneticists also found it unacceptable to provide non-face-to-face medical supervision for: (i) a presymptomatic test for a condition with very high penetrance; (ii) a predictive test for a condition that has a 'medium' penetrance of 50% to 60%; and (iii) carrier testing. For conditions that are neither treatable nor preventable and for disorders with serious health consequences, clinical geneticists were almost unanimous in expressing the unacceptability of offering such genetic tests outside of the traditional healthcare setting, without an established physician-patient relationship and without face-to-face medical supervision. CONCLUSION A high percentage of European clinical geneticists are aware of DTC GT and the majority do not agree with the model of provision used by many commercial companies for certain severe or actionable health conditions. Despite this disagreement with the DTC model of provision, >85% of respondents said that they would offer genetic counselling to patients who asked for a consultation after having undergone DTC genetic testing. The understanding of the views and opinions of this expert stakeholder group should be considered in the attempts to shape responsible policy and guidelines for these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Carmen Howard
- INSERM, UMR 1027, Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculté de médecine Purpan, Université Paul Sabatier, 37 allées Jules Guesde, 31000, Toulouse, France
| | - Pascal Borry
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 Box 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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