Awareness and Use of Genetic Tests Among Puerto Rican Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Ortiz Ana Patricia MPH, PhD, López Magdalena MS, Flores Libertad T. MPH, Soto-Salgado Marievelisse MS, Finney Rutten Lila J. PhD, MPH, Serrano-Rodriguez Ruby A. MS, DrPH, Hesse Bradford W. PhD, Tortolero-Luna Guillermo MD, PhD
Primary Institution: University of Puerto Rico
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and correlates of awareness of direct-to-consumer genetic tests and the prevalence of genetic test use in Puerto Rican adults?
Conclusion
The study found that 56% of Puerto Rican adults were aware of direct-to-consumer genetic tests, but only 4% had ever used any genetic test.
Supporting Evidence
- 56% of respondents were aware of direct-to-consumer genetic tests.
- 4% of respondents had ever undergone any genetic test.
- Lower awareness was found among single individuals and current smokers.
- Those who sought cancer information were more likely to be aware of genetic tests.
Takeaway
Most people in Puerto Rico know about genetic tests, but very few have actually taken one.
Methodology
Data from the 2009 Health Information National Trends Survey in Puerto Rico was analyzed using logistic regression models.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may be subject to recall and social desirability biases.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable to all Puerto Rican adults as it only included those with landline telephones.
Participant Demographics
Participants were adults aged 18 and older, with a mix of marital statuses, education levels, and health insurance coverage.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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