The diffusion of innovation: factors influencing the uptake of pharmacogenetics.
BACKGROUND
Inspired by diffusion research, this paper examines how perceived need, health status, experiences with medicine and testing, consumption of mass media and sociodemography influence the public's familiarity, knowledge, attitudes and intentions regarding pharmacogenetics. The objective is to identify factors affecting the adoption pattern of pharmacogenetics in the public.


METHODS
The paper is based on an Internet-based questionnaire survey conducted in March 2005. A total of 3,000 representative Danes aged 18-70 years were included in the survey, representing a response rate of 58.9%.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge of pharmacogenetics, and thus the diffusion of the technology, is influenced by medicine consumption, experienced lack of effect and side effects, use of medical testing and perception of societal need. Increased knowledge is seen in all cases. The general perception of and attitude to pharmacogenetics is related to prior use of medical tests and perception of societal need for pharmacogenetics, which in both cases indicates an increased positive approach.
Nielsen
Louise Fuks
LF
INSEAD, Social Pharmacy, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Moldrup
Claus
C
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003718:Denmark; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D004522:Educational Status; D004651:Employment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008402:Mass Media; D008875:Middle Aged; D010597:Pharmacogenetics; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires