A legacy for the children--attitudes of older adults in the United Kingdom to genetic testing.

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess understanding of genetics and attitudes towards genetic testing for clinical and research purposes in a group of older adults in the UK.

BACKGROUND

Increasingly, genomics will have an impact on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of common diseases and the prescription of drugs. The chance of being affected by a medical condition increases with age and therefore the use of genetic testing as part of general health-care practice has an impact on the older population.

METHODS

Older adults were recruited to two focus groups (n=7 and n=10 respectively). Focus group discussions were guided by a series of questions and were audiotaped. The transcribed data were coded for significant statements, which were organized under thematic headings.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 76 years. The main themes to emerge were: understanding, approach to genetic testing and conditions for testing. In this cohort, the older adults were largely unsure about the underlying scientific basis of genetics but were keen to learn more. While enhanced medical knowledge could enable preventive measures to be taken and so reduce suffering, it was acknowledged that for some people knowing the future could potentially cause anxiety and harm. Participants were wary about research being used to benefit private companies and voiced ethical concerns about potential coercion to be tested and the misuse of science. However, all participants had an altruistic approach that influenced their willingness to be tested to benefit others in their family or the wider community. Conditions for testing included provision of information about the purpose of testing and feedback on the results.

CONCLUSIONS

Older adults are positive about the opportunities presented by genetic testing for clinical reasons and research, but need accurate information about the reasons for and implications of such testing.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The results of this study confirm the need for nurses to be proactive in developing the genetic competencies required to detect potential familial disease, make appropriate referrals to genetic services and ensure informed consent is obtained for genetic testing.