Community interest in predictive genetic testing for susceptibility to major depressive disorder in a large national sample

Abstract

Despite finding attitudes that genetic links to mental illness would increase rather than decrease stigma, we found strong community acceptance of depression risk genotyping, even though a predisposition to depression may only manifest upon exposure to stressful life events. Our results suggest that there will be a strong demand for predictive genetic testing.

Consumer Perspectives on Genetic Testing for Psychiatric Disorders: The Attitudes of Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Their Families

“…Although data on attitudes to genetic testing in PTSD are lacking, a few studies in samples comprised of individuals with other psychiatric disorders are available. For example, data from a large phone survey indicated that a history of psychiatric illness and a perceived vulnerability to depression were both related to increased interest in genetic testing for the risk of depression (Wilde et al, 2011). Those who endorsed statements about the benefits of genetic testing were more than three times more likely to indicate interest in receiving genetic testing for depression risk (Wilde et al, 2011).…”

“…For example, data from a large phone survey indicated that a history of psychiatric illness and a perceived vulnerability to depression were both related to increased interest in genetic testing for the risk of depression (Wilde et al, 2011). Those who endorsed statements about the benefits of genetic testing were more than three times more likely to indicate interest in receiving genetic testing for depression risk (Wilde et al, 2011). Among family members of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, 83% indicated interest in a test of genetic risk if it were available (DeLisi and Bertisch, 2006).…”

“…The latter result could be due to the stronger association with the family member with bipolar disorder brought on by a genetic model of psychiatric disorders (Meiser et al, 2007). In contrast, respondents in a phone survey reported that a genetic link with depression would increase stigma (Wilde et al, 2011). Given the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders, research is needed to more fully appreciate the ultimate effect of genetic research in this patient group.…”

“…This report describes the results of this survey and explores the role of knowledge of genetics in attitudes toward genetic testing. Based on the increased interest in genetic testing for depression in those with a history of psychiatric illness or perceived vulnerability to depression (Wilde et al, 2011), we hypothesized that veterans with PTSD would report more favorable attitudes toward genetic testing.…”

Public opinion on policy issues in genetics and genomics

“…[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?…”