title: Genetic testing for hemochromatosis: attitudes and acceptability among young and older adults.
abstract: Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder of iron overload common in persons of northern European descent. We examined attitudes about testing for hemochromatosis in 118 young adults (YA) (19.7 years +/- 1.9) and 50 older adults (OA) (58.5 years +/- 13.7). Participants read about hemochromatosis and two related tests: transferrin saturation measurement (iron test) and HFE genotyping (HFE test). Interest in each test and attitudes about genetic testing were assessed. More than 80% of all participants were willing to undergo either test, if offered. A majority preferred the iron test because of the information it provides about current health. A majority of participants identified at least one benefit of genetic testing, with improved health through early detection/prevention being most common. YA were more likely to report disadvantages of genetic testing (p < 0.001) and were more concerned about potential negative psychological effects (p < 0.005). OA were more concerned about potential discrimination (p < 0.0001). These findings suggest that young and older adults view genetic testing as beneficial and would accept HFE testing were it offered as part of a screening program.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1530 Third Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294-1170, USA.
authors.forename: Bret L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Hicken
authors.forename: David C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Calhoun
authors.forename: Diane C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Tucker
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D005820:Genetic Testing; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006432:Hemochromatosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014168:Transferrin / Q000032:analysis
chemical_list: D014168:Transferrin