Preferences for Genetic and Behavioral Health Information: The Impact of Risk Factors and Disease Attributions

Abstract

Background Increased availability of genetic risk information may lead the public to give precedence to genetic causation over behavioral/environmental factors, decreasing behavior change motivation. Few population-based data inform these concerns. Purpose We assess the association of family history, behavioral risks, and causal attributions for diseases and the perceived value of pursuing information emphasizing health habits or genes. Method 1959 healthy adults completed a survey that assessed behavioral risk factors, family history, causal attributions of eight diseases, and health information preferences. Results Participants’ causal beliefs favored health behaviors over genetics. Interest in behavioral information was higher than in genetic information. As behavioral risk factors increased, inclination toward genetic explanations increased; interest in how health habits affect disease risk decreased. Conclusions Those at greatest need for behavior change may hold attributions that diminish interest in behavior change information. Enhancing understanding of gene-environment influences could be explored to increase engagement with health information.

Health behaviors and cancer screening among Californians with a family history of cancer

“…Conversely, it may place too much emphasis on genetic susceptibility. 32 In this study, we were unable to assess if our study findings were due to a lack of awareness of risk factors for breast and CRC. Regardless, patients with an FMH of cancer may benefit from a targeted approach to improving their health behaviors.…”

Public opinion on policy issues in genetics and genomics

“…10 Next, we asked about the role of clinicians. The survey explained: "Right now, people who purchase genetic tests from companies do not have to discuss their results with a medical professional. "…”

“…[4][5][6] When national polls are conducted, the focus is usually limited to a single condition, such as cancer or depression. 7,8 Additionally, more attention has been given to how individuals respond to genetic risk [9][10][11] rather than assessing their policy opinions. What is the view of the general public when it comes to policy issues in genetics and genomics?…”

Patient Beliefs and Behaviors About Genomic Risk for Type 2 Diabetes: Implications for Prevention

“…The second condition would be met if patients' representations of T2D include the belief that the threat can be addressed (i.e., the illness can be prevented, even in the face of genetic risk) through appropriate coping strategies such as dietary improvements, exercise, or medication. In contrast, genetic information might result in fatalistic beliefs that T2D cannot be prevented at all (Claassen et al, 2010), or in discounting of behavioral treatment strategies among people with high behavioral risk (O'Neill, McBride, Alford, & Kaphingst, 2010;Wang & Coups, 2010). Such fatalistic beliefs may manifest as less physical activity and poorer diet habits among people with representations that include genetic causality.…”