Ready to test your DNA?: Public acceptance of genetic testing in the precision medicine era among Chinese residents.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to explore the Chinese public's experiences with, perceptions of, attitudes toward, and willingness to use genetic testing (GT) in the precision medicine era.

Methods: A total of 4,208 individuals from 33 provinces in China were recruited to complete a self-administered questionnaire in December 2018.

Results: More than half of the respondents believed that GT does more good than harm, while only 5.8% believed that it does more harm than good. Nearly 60% of the respondents expressed willingness to use GT. Higher awareness of GT was correlated with more positive attitudes toward it and a greater willingness to use it. However, the general public had an uneven exposure and susceptibility to misinformation. More educated respondents demonstrated a better understanding of GT but remained vulnerable to the influence of misinformation. Additionally, younger generations tended to be more critical of GT but were more willing to use it than earlier generations.

Conclusions: The study reveals a high level of acceptance of GT among the Chinese public, while also suggesting that educational and regulatory measures are needed to improve public understanding of GT and address their particular concerns regarding genetic testing and precision medicine.