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Behavioral consequences of testing for obesity risk
Dominick L Frosch1, Paul Mello, Caryn Lerman
1Robert Wood Johnson Health and Society Scholars Program, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. frosch@wharton.upenn.edu
Summary
Genetic susceptibility testing for obesity may motivate healthier eating intentions, particularly for those with higher risk. However, some individuals might experience false reassurance from average risk results.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Genetic susceptibility testing holds promise for motivating preventative behaviors for complex conditions like obesity.
- Understanding the behavioral impact of such testing is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the behavioral consequences of genetic susceptibility testing for obesity risk.
- To investigate how different risk levels and test types influence dietary intentions and perceived behavioral control.
Main Methods:
- 249 participants were randomly assigned to vignettes describing genetic or hormone testing for obesity risk (increased vs. average).
- Measures included behavioral intentions for healthy eating, perceived behavioral control, and weight locus of control.
- Analysis explored interactions between risk level, perceived control, weight locus of control, BMI, and family history.
Main Results:
- Participants in increased risk conditions showed greater intentions to eat healthy diets compared to average risk.
- Significant interactions revealed that low perceived behavioral control or external weight locus of control diminished intentions in average risk groups.
- The effect of risk feedback was most pronounced in individuals with a family history of obesity or higher BMI.
Conclusions:
- Genetic susceptibility testing for obesity shows potential to motivate healthier behaviors.
- A "false reassurance effect" may occur in individuals with average risk, potentially reducing motivation for healthy eating.