Physicians' opinion for 'new' genetic testing in Japan
Takako Ohata1, Atsushi Tsuchiya, Maiko Watanabe
1Department of Medical Genetics, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Sagamihara, Japan. hatat@orange.ocn.ne.jp
Journal of Human Genetics
|March 21, 2009
Summary
Healthcare providers in Japan have varying awareness and opinions on direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing. General practitioners showed positive views, while clinical geneticists raised concerns about result reliability and counseling needs.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Healthcare Policy
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Advancements in human genetics enable diverse applications of genetic information.
- Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing is an emerging service with potential implications for healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the opinions of Japanese healthcare providers regarding new genetic testing services, specifically DTC genetic testing.
- To understand the awareness levels and perceptions of general practitioners and clinical geneticists towards DTC genetic testing.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was distributed to 1124 general practitioners and 294 clinical geneticists in Japan.
- Data collected focused on awareness, perceived benefits, and concerns related to DTC genetic testing.
Main Results:
- Awareness of DTC genetic testing was 38% among general practitioners and 68.4% among clinical geneticists.
- General practitioners anticipated convenience, preventive medicine promotion, personalized services, and confidentiality.
- Clinical geneticists expressed greater concerns regarding result reliability, information provision, counseling, and result interpretation.
Conclusions:
- Awareness of DTC genetic testing positively influences general practitioners' opinions.
- General practitioners may play a future role in DTC genetic testing services in Japan.
- Clinical geneticists are crucial for providing expert information to both healthcare providers and the public on genetic testing.
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