Smokers’ beliefs about the tobacco control potential of “a gene for smoking”: a focus group study

Abstract

BackgroundSeveral genetic variations associated with nicotine dependence and lung cancer exist. Translating this knowledge into tobacco control policy relies on smokers’ perceptions of the implications of the research. This study explored smokers’ beliefs about the tobacco control uses for research examining genomics, smoking, and addiction.MethodSmokers (N = 85) participated in one of thirteen focus groups and one interview, stratified by race (eight black, six white) and education (seven < Bachelor’s degree, seven ≥ Bachelor’s degree). Data were analyzed by two independent coders using standard analysis and validation techniques.ResultsNearly all groups suggested using genetic information for youth-oriented tobacco prevention education. Beliefs about the effectiveness of such actions varied. Many participants believed that providing smokers personalized genetic testing results or informing them about the existence of a gene would not motivate people to quit. All smokers emphasized the need for improved smoking cessation treatment options. Using genomics research to develop gene therapies and personalized drug treatments were also mentioned, yet perceptions of such treatments were mixed. Whereas some participants viewed the possibility positively, others expressed concern about cost and access. Participants who were skeptical of the effectiveness of using genetic information for tobacco control noted that the harms of tobacco use are widely known and genetic information does not add much of a deterrent.ConclusionParticipants generated several possible tobacco control uses for genomics research findings. Our findings suggest that tobacco control experts should consult with smokers prior to implementing tobacco control measures. The potential public health benefits of genetics and genomics research related to tobacco use cannot be realized until communication strategies that are most likely to encourage and support tobacco avoidance decisions, and minimize mistrust and backlash, are identified.

The Use of the Nicotine Metabolite Ratio as a Biomarker to Personalize Smoking Cessation Treatment: Current Evidence and Future Directions

“…Finally, while physicians report concern about using genetic data to tailor treatments for smoking cessation (and lower intention to use) because such information could also be stigmatizing and used for employment or insurance discrimination, they indicate a greater willingness to use a test to individualize treatment for smoking cessation if the test is focused on an enzyme like the NMR, because it does not convey such additional risks (43)(44)(45). Likewise, data show that patients are highly interested in using genetic information to select treatments for smoking cessation (46,47) but express concern about genetic information being misused, which would not be the case with the NMR (48,49). Thus, the NMR represents a pharmacogenetic marker with an established functional phenotype ideal for treatment optimization.…”

Participatory Design of a Personalized Genetic Risk Tool to Promote Behavioral Health

“…However, the genetics of behavioral health disorders has unique features that must be accommodated. In qualitative work (36)(37)(38), researchers found that some smokers are skeptical of a genetic basis for nicotine addiction, a concept which may reduce perceptions of agency in quitting smoking. However, many smokers strongly endorsed the benefits of using genetic information to inform treatment (e.g., use of smoking cessation medications), a process which may regain one's sense of agency.…”