Murdoch B, Sapir-Pichhadze R, de Chickera SN, Caulfield T. Communicating About Precision Transplantation Tools.
Can J Kidney Health Dis 2024;
11:20543581241228737. [PMID:
38328390 PMCID:
PMC10848791 DOI:
10.1177/20543581241228737]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose of review
Precision tools that ensure molecular compatibility can help prevent rejection and improve kidney transplantation outcomes. However, these tools will generate controversy because they are perceived to and can in fact impact equity in the ethics of allocation. They may also affect the extent to which physicians can advocate for their patient fiduciaries, as generally required by Canadian professional ethics and law.
Sources of information
Electronic databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed were searched for peer-reviewed literature, and Google search engine was used to identify the news articles, jurisprudence, legal information, and other relevant websites cited.
Methods
We discuss controversies precision transplantation tools will likely generate, consider what challenges will arise from their implementation, and provide recommendations of avenues and content for communication to address these issues.
Key findings
Communication about the translation of new precision tools will be challenging as media portrayals of transplantation often focus on individual narratives about access to transplantation and fail to center the issues of utility, allocation, and rejection. Incomplete portrayals of this nature will need to be countered with explanations of how new precision tools can be of net benefit when implemented equitably, as maintaining trust in the donation and transplantation system is key.
Limitations
Our manuscript focuses on precision medicine applications pertaining to the implementation of molecular compatibility in transplantation. Distinct communication content and avenues may need to be considered in other contexts.
Implications
Clear, accurate, and strategic communication is key to managing translation of precision medicine tools. For this purpose, we provide detailed recommendations for stakeholder engagement, content, and avenues for communicating about precision transplantation tools.
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