Anticipated uptake of genetic testing for familial melanoma in an Australian sample: An exploratory study

Abstract

Introduction: The potential role of genetic testing in families with an inherited pattern of melanoma is a complex issue, and yet limited data exist on perceptions of predictive genetic testing for mutations among individuals at high risk of melanoma. Methodology: Forty semi-structured interviews were undertaken with affected and unaffected individuals at either high or average risk of developing melanoma due to family history. Interviews addressed key issues such as: the role of genetics in causal attributions for melanoma; genetic testing intentions and motivations; perceived accuracy of genetic testing in predicting melanoma onset, and the impact of varied accuracy on testing intentions; views on the testing of children; perceived benefits and limitations of testing; and information needs and communication preferences. Results: In-depth thematic analysis revealed a number of important qualitative differences between groups at varying risk of melanoma, and genders. Specifically, participants with a family history of melanoma believed genetic factors play an important role in melanoma causation; conveyed strong intentions to pursue genetic testing; and viewed the benefits of genetic testing as outweighing the limitations. Females appeared to endorse the testing of children more firmly than males, and males` intentions to pursue testing appeared more contingent on penetrance than females`. Across groups, the most preferred communication option was an informational video. Conclusion: Those at high risk of melanoma due to family history express a strong interest in predictive genetic testing. Copyright (C) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.