Healthcare professionals' knowledge and attitudes towards polygenic risk testing for glaucoma

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Genetics
• Healthcare Professional Education

Background:

• Clinical implementation of polygenic risk testing for glaucoma depends on healthcare professionals' knowledge and attitudes.
• Emerging applications necessitate competency in polygenic risk scores for all involved in patient care.
• This study is the first to assess healthcare professionals' views on polygenic testing for glaucoma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess healthcare professionals' attitudes and knowledge regarding polygenic risk testing for glaucoma.
• To identify factors influencing the recommendation and implementation of polygenic risk testing.
• To determine training needs for effective clinical integration of polygenic risk scores.

Main Methods:

• An online cross-sectional questionnaire was distributed to Australian healthcare professionals.
• The survey assessed experience, confidence, and knowledge of genetic testing and glaucoma.
• It also evaluated recommendations for polygenic risk testing and influencing factors.

Main Results:

• Familiarity with polygenic risk scores for glaucoma was low (11%) among 94 participants.
• The majority had positive attitudes towards recommending testing (91% for family history, 57% for age).
• Ophthalmologists were identified as the most appropriate group for ordering and communicating results, with 93% desiring more training.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare professionals exhibit low familiarity and confidence with glaucoma polygenic risk testing.
• Significant training and education are needed to support the clinical implementation of this genetic test.
• Addressing these needs is essential for integrating polygenic risk scores into glaucoma patient care.