Open AccessSurvey of US public attitudes toward pharmacogenetic testing
Author(s) -
Susanne B. Haga,
Julianne O’Daniel,
Genevieve M. Tindall,
Isaac Lipkus,
Robert Agans
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
pharmacogenomics journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.804
H-Index - 85
eISSN - 1473-1150
pISSN - 1470-269X
DOI - 10.1038/tpj.2011.1
Subject(s) - confidentiality , test (biology) , medicine , dosing , pharmacogenetics , family medicine , psychology , computer science , computer security , genotype , paleontology , gene , biology , biochemistry , chemistry
To assess public attitudes and interest in pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing, we conducted a random-digit-dial telephone survey of US adults, achieving a response rate of 42% (n=1139). Most respondents expressed interest in PGx testing to predict mild or serious side effects (73±3.29 and 85±2.91%, respectively), guide dosing (91%) and assist with drug selection (92%). Younger individuals (aged 18-34 years) were more likely to be interested in PGx testing to predict serious side effects (vs aged 55+ years), as well as Whites, those with a college degree, and who had experienced side effects from medications. However, most respondents (78±3.14%) were not likely to have a PGx test if there was a risk that their DNA sample or test result could be shared without their permission. Given differences in interest among some groups, providers should clearly discuss the purpose of testing, alternative testing options (if available) and policies to protect patient privacy and confidentiality.