Public preferences for communicating personal genomic risk information: a focus group study

Area of Science:

• Genomic Medicine
• Health Communication
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Personalized genomic risk information can drive behavior change and improve public health.
• Effective risk communication strategies are crucial for realizing the potential of genomic information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify public preferences for graphical and written risk communication formats.
• To determine preferred delivery modes and the role of health professionals in communicating genomic risk information.

Main Methods:

• Focus groups were conducted with 34 members of the public.
• Participants discussed a hypothetical scenario involving personalized genomic risk for melanoma.
• Data were analyzed thematically.

Main Results:

• Familiar formats like the '100 person diagram' (pictograph) and 'double pie chart' were preferred for clarity and personalization.
• Participants favored digital or postal delivery but stressed the need for health professional support.
• Face-to-face or telephone delivery was preferred for high-risk results.

Conclusions:

• Understanding public preferences is vital for developing effective communication strategies for genomic risk information.
• These insights can guide the translation of genomic knowledge into improved population health outcomes.