Genetic testing users in Italy and Germany: Health orientation, health-related habits, and psychological profile

Rapid advances in genomic knowledge and widespread access to the web contributed to the development of genetic services by private companies or medical laboratories. In the European landscape, though, there is not a single coherent regulatory approach to genetic testing (GT). The study aimed to investigate differences and similarities between two populations of GT users, Italians and Germans, in terms of health-related behaviors, psychological characteristics, and attitudes toward genetic information.

Ninety-nine Italian GT users from one private genetic company and 64 Germans GT users from one medical laboratory, completed an ad hoc self-administered questionnaire.

Results showed significant differences in health-related behaviors (unhealthy eating behaviors, smoking behaviors, and frequency in medical check-ups), with Germans reporting higher levels of unhealthy eating habits and smoking behaviors than Italians; Italian users also were more medically controlled. Furthermore, German participants were less willing to change their lifestyle following the GT results compared to Italian participants. Regarding psychological variables, German users felt more confident about their physical well-being and they seemed more motivated than Italians to avoid becoming unhealthy. Finally, two samples differed in the way they accessed genetic testing (with the Italians guided predominately by a physician in contrast with the Germans who were recommended by friends) and managed genetic testing results (with Italian participants significantly more willing to share results with doctors than German participants, who preferred sharing with the family).

The analysis of cultural and organizational differences could help in defining adequate guidelines for counseling, and provide inputs for regulators in different European contexts.