Genetic testing and Guangdong college students in China: A cross-sectional study of knowledge and attitudes

This study investigated functional health literacy and attitudes toward genetic testing among Chinese college students to understand if they can make informed decisions and avoid potential risks.

A cross-sectional anonymous online survey was conducted with students from 13 colleges in Guangdong province during October-November 2021.

Of the 1543 participants, 53.9 % were female, predominantly undergraduates (97.2 %). Most students reported being health-conscious (76.6 %), less religious (60.3 %), possessing health esteem (76.4 %), and having parents in non-healthcare occupations (89.1 %). The median score for functional genetic literacy was 10 out of 17. Most (91.4 %) expressed positive attitudes toward genetic testing, with 65.1 % favoring direct-to-consumer options. The most preferred tests were predictive (83.3 %) and premarital/preconception tests (76.4 %). Multiple linear regression analysis showed independent predictors of functional genetic literacy as female gender (Beta, 95 %CI: 0.26, 0.02-0.49), medicine major (1.51, 1.27-1.74), health-esteem personality trait (0.34, 0.06-0.62), lower religiosity (0.66, 0.49-0.83), and lower perceived financial status (0.47, 0.21-0.73). Logistic regression analysis identified independent predictors of positive attitude toward genetic testing as self-respect personality (adjusted odds ratio, 95 %CI: 1.81, 1.23-2.66), lower perceived financial status (0.57, 0.38-0.83), and parental occupation in non-healthcare (0.38, 0.17-0.89).

Guangdong college students were mostly positive toward genetic testing, particularly predictive and premarital options. However, their limited functional genetic testing literacy may hinder informed decision-making. To address ethical, legal, and social implications, China should strengthen public education, promote the genetic counseling profession and enhance regulatory oversight in the genetic testing industry.