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Most Current Smokers Desire Genetic Susceptibility Testing and Genetically-Efficacious Medication
Ami Chiu1, Sarah Hartz1, Nina Smock1
1Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Campus Box 8134, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
Summary
Most smokers are interested in genetic testing for nicotine dependence. A positive genetic result predicting medication response significantly increases their desire to take smoking cessation medication.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Behavioral Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Clinical translation of genetic research on nicotine dependence and treatment response hinges on smoker acceptance of genetic testing.
- Understanding smoker receptivity to genetic testing and its impact on treatment adherence is crucial for personalized smoking cessation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current smokers' receptivity to genetic susceptibility testing for nicotine dependence.
- To determine the extent to which smokers motivated to quit desire smoking cessation medication based on hypothetical pharmacogenetic test results.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed current smokers (n=1306) from a nicotine dependence study regarding interest in genetic testing for dependence risk.
- Surveyed current smokers (n=474) in a cessation trial about medication desire based on hypothetical pharmacogenetic responses.
Main Results:
- A high interest (84.8%) in genetic testing results for nicotine dependence was reported by current smokers.
- Factors associated with high interest included older age (≥40 years), college education, and a positive medical history.
- Desire to take smoking cessation medication increased significantly (61.0% to 97.5%, p < .0001) when hypothetical pharmacogenetic response shifted from below to above average.
Conclusions:
- Genetic testing for personalized smoking cessation treatment is generally well-received by smokers.
- Positive hypothetical pharmacogenetic test results enhance the desire to use smoking cessation medication among motivated quitters.
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