Public knowledge, attitudes, and ethical views on CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing for genetic diseases in Taif, Saudi Arabia

Public support for gene editing, particularly for therapeutic purposes, remains strong. Recently, the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia approved CRISPR-Cas9 for treating Sickle Cell Disease and beta thalassemia. This study aims to assess the Taif population's opinion on gene editing and their knowledge of genetic modification. In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was distributed online from March 2, 2024, to June 15, 2024, to 747 residents of Taif City aged 18 and older. Among the respondents, 14.7% reported that they or their family members suffer from a hereditary disease, and 65.7% either work or study in the healthcare field or have a family member involved in healthcare. Additionally, 50.7% had previously heard of genetic modification. Marital status, number of children, and education level did not significantly influence opinions on genetic editing, whereas affiliation with the healthcare field was significantly associated with greater acceptance (p = 0.023), while a family history of hereditary disease showed a trend toward significance (p = 0.055). Public opinion strongly supports using genetic editing to treat life-threatening diseases in adults and embryos (63.2% and 73.6%, respectively). However, opinions are more divided on non-disease traits. Many respondents expressed interest in enhancing intelligence (73.8%) and strength (75.8%), as well as altering height (67.8%) and hair color (60.7%). While support was strong for therapeutic use, opinions were divided on enhancement, reflecting ethical tension despite high interest in modifying non-disease traits. Notably, 50.7% believed that using genetic editing for non-medical purposes crosses ethical boundaries and exceeds nature's limits. Awareness of gene-editing techniques was not significantly associated with acceptance (p = 0.108). In conclusion, public acceptance of gene editing in Taif is high, particularly among healthcare-affiliated individuals. Increasing public awareness remains essential to bridge ethical concerns and support informed engagement.