Applying a theory-based framework to understand public knowledge of genetic risk factors: a case for the distinction between how-to knowledge and principles knowledge.
OBJECTIVE
Using E.M. Rogers's knowledge framework as presented in his seminal innovation-decision process, this paper aims to present an overview of the general public's knowledge of genetics. It also makes a first attempt to examine the statistical validity of this framework.


METHODS
A sample of 2,500 members of the Dutch general population was presented with a questionnaire containing measures of 3 increasingly complex forms of knowledge: awareness knowledge, (practical) how-to knowledge and (theoretical) principles knowledge.


RESULTS
The general public seems to be moderately aware of genetic risk factors for multifactorial diseases. In general, how-to knowledge seems fair, whereas principles knowledge is limited and superficial. Additional analyses provided empirical evidence for the distinction between awareness knowledge, how-to knowledge and principles knowledge.


CONCLUSIONS
The innovation-decision process, and specifically Rogers's knowledge framework, provides a useful tool for public education in genetics. Future research may build upon and extend our findings by examining the persuasion, decision, implementation, and possibly the confirmation stages of the innovation-decision process concerning genetic education.
School for Public Health and Primary Care, Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. c.smerecnik@gvo.unimaas.nl
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Smerecnik
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Mesters
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de Vries
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de Vries
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D057220:Health Literacy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012307:Risk Factors