Predicting intention to biobank: a national survey

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Research
• Public Health
• Genetics

Background:

• Public participation is crucial for the success of human population biobanks.
• Understanding public willingness to donate biological samples and link them with medical records is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors influencing public intention to donate biological samples to publicly funded biobanks.
• To assess the impact of trust, beliefs, and comfort on participation in biobank research.

Main Methods:

• A national survey of 1000 Australians was conducted via telephonic interviews.
• Respondents reported likelihood of participation, trust in biobanks, beliefs in research benefits, and comfort with sample collection and analysis.

Main Results:

• High trust in university biobanks and strong belief in health-care benefits were reported.
• Trust in biobanks was the most significant determinant of participation intention.
• Comfort with procedures and belief in health benefits also positively influenced intention.

Conclusions:

• Australians demonstrate a general willingness to participate in biobank research, with trust being the primary driver.
• While perceived benefits and comfort are relevant, trust appears to be the most critical factor for public engagement in biobanking.
• Factors beyond perceived health improvements significantly influence public willingness to contribute to biobank research.