Survey of US public attitudes toward pharmacogenetic testing

Pharmacogenomics J. 2012 Jun;12(3):197-204. doi: 10.1038/tpj.2011.1. Epub 2011 Feb 15.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Awareness
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
  • Educational Status
  • Ethnicity / psychology
  • Female
  • Genetic Privacy
  • Genetic Testing*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Odds Ratio
  • Patient Selection
  • Perception
  • Pharmacogenetics*
  • Precision Medicine / psychology*
  • Public Opinion*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States
  • Young Adult