Readiness to Accept Genetic Testing for Personalized Medicine: Survey Findings on the Role of Socio-Demographic Characteristics, Health Vulnerabilities, Perceived Genetic Risk and Personality Factors

Anja Leppin*, Jesper Bo Nielsen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

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Abstract

Studies from various countries have shown that majorities would accept genetic testing for personalization of treatment, but little is known about differences among population subgroups. The present study investigated whether readiness to accept a hypothetical cost-free offer of genetic testing to personalize treatment depends on socio-demographic characteristics, health-related vulnerabilities, personal dispositions, and prior awareness about personalized medicine. The study was based on a cross-sectional survey design. Out of a representative initial sample of 50-80-year-old Danish citizens ( n = 15,072), n = 6807 returned a fully answered web-based questionnaire. Socio-demographic data were added from a national registry. Data were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression. A large majority of respondents (78.3%) expressed their readiness to be tested. Rates were higher in men, younger persons, and those with higher income. Additionally, ex-smokers and obese persons as well as those less satisfied with their health and respondents who perceived a personal genetic risk were more interested, as were those with higher internal health control, higher extraversion, higher emotional stability, and those who had not heard about this option before. Further research should investigate the specific concerns among population subgroups which need being addressed by systematic communication efforts in a clinical but also a broader public health context.

Original languageEnglish
Article number1836
JournalJournal of Personalized Medicine
Volume12
Issue number11
Number of pages18
ISSN2075-4426
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 10. Nov 2022

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