The implications of genetic susceptibility for the prevention of colorectal cancer: a qualitative study of older adults' understanding.
OBJECTIVE
To assess whether public understandings of inherited predisposition to colorectal cancer may undermine preparedness to respond to preventive messages.


METHODS
Structured in-depth interviews with 31 women and men, aged 50 years and over.


RESULTS
Most participants viewed genetic factors as prompts for taking preventive measures rather than as reasons for fatalism and inaction. They were optimistic about the potential benefits of new developments in cancer prevention and treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
There was little evidence of perceived genetic determinism in relation to colorectal cancer, but there were some significant misunderstandings about causes, prevention and treatment. These findings have important implications for public health communications about the contribution of genetics to cancer causation.
Lucke
Jayne
J
School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. j.lucke@uq.edu.au
Hall
Wayne
W
Ryan
Bree
B
Owen
Neville
N
D000368:Aged; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010465:Perception; D036301:Qualitative Research