Returning genetic research results: study type matters.
OBJECTIVE
The return of individual genetic research results has been identified as one of the most pressing ethical challenges warranting immediate policy attention. We explored the practices and perspectives of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) investigators on this topic.


METHODS
Corresponding authors of published GWAS were invited to participate in a semistructured interview. Interviews (n = 35) were transcribed and analyzed using conventional content analysis.


RESULTS
Most investigators had not returned GWAS results. Several had experience returning results in the context of linkage/family studies, and many felt that it will become a larger issue in whole-genome/-exome sequencing.


CONCLUSIONS
Research context and nature of the study are important considerations in the decision to return results. More nuanced ethical guidelines should take these contextual factors into account.
Center for Medical Ethics & Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Amy L
AL
McGuire
Jill Oliver
JO
Robinson
Rachel B
RB
Ramoni
Debra S
DS
Morley
Steven
S
Jofe
Sharon E
SE
Plon
ethics; genome-wide association; genomics; policy; return of results; whole-genome sequencing