engleski

Knowledge and Attitudes on Genetic Testing in Croatian Population: A Preliminary Study

The aim was to investigate the knowledge and attitudes about genetic testing in the Croatian general population and determine the factors affecting their willingness to participate in different types of genetic testing. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey from 6 to 14 March 2022 on a sample of 215 adults (72.1% females, median age = 31). The survey questionnaire included general demographic data, data on blood donation, and diagnosis of severe diseases in relatives. We included questions regarding knowledge on genetic testing (e.g., the meaning and availability) and created two scales measuring participants’ attitudes toward genetic testing. The first scale examined their attitudes and willingness to participate in genetic testing, while the second one explored fear related to involvement in such activities. Participants demonstrated on average relatively positive attitudes and higher levels of willingness to participate in genetic testing (total score = 32.05/40 ; 95%CI 31.03-32.96) and moderate levels of fear related to involvement in such activities (total score = 10.94/20 ; 95%CI 10.35-11.53). Participants’ sex (P = 0.048), religion (P = 0.047), and reported knowledge (P < 0.001) significantly contributed to their attitudes and willingness to participate in such activities, while their fear of involvement was related to political affiliation (P = 0.012). Croatian population shows openness toward genetic research and testing that can be affected by their sex, religion, knowledge, and political affiliation. To obtain better insight into those factors, future studies should be conducted on a larger and more comprehensive sample.

genetic testing ; attitude ; knowledge ; Croatian population ; personalized medicine

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