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Published on: June 21, 2018
Media coverage of direct-to-consumer genetic testing
John Lynch1, Ashley Parrott, Robert J Hopkin
1Department of Communication, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0184, USA. john.lynch@uc.edu
Media coverage of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) genetic testing presents varied views on its impacts. News reports discussed genetic determinism, privacy, and discrimination, influencing public perception of these tests.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Bioethics
- Media Studies
Background:
- Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) genetic testing is increasingly accessible.
- Media narratives significantly shape public understanding and perception of health technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and categorize the themes presented in U.S. news media regarding DTC genetic testing.
- To assess how media coverage influences public perception of DTC genetic testing's implications.
Main Methods:
- A Lexis-Nexis search was conducted for news stories from 2006-2009 using keywords 'Direct-to-Consumer' and 'genetic test'.
- Ninety-two news stories were analyzed and coded for themes including genetic determinism, privacy, discrimination, validity, regulation, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), utility, and cost.
Main Results:
- News stories exhibited moderate genetic determinism and neutral stances on test validity and utility.
- Insurance and employers were identified as primary sources of discrimination risk, while physicians and DTC companies were seen as privacy risks.
- Coverage frequently mentioned test costs, and post-GINA (Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act) stories rarely discussed the law, despite concerns about consumer harm from lack of regulation.
Conclusions:
- U.S. media coverage of DTC genetic testing presents a diverse range of perspectives on its potential benefits and risks.
- The genetics community must acknowledge the varied public exposure to information about DTC genetic testing when engaging in discussions.
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