Psychological and Behavioural Impact of Genetic Testing Smokers for Lung Cancer Risk
Sanderson SC., Humphries SE., Hubbart C., Hughes E., Jarvis MJ., Wardle J.
The behavioural and psychological impact of genetic testing for lung cancer susceptibility was examined among smokers ( N = 61) who were randomly allocated to a GSTM1 genetic testing group (with GSTM1-missing or GSTM1-present result) or no-test control group. The GSTM1-missing (higher risk) group reported greater motivation to quit smoking, and both genetic testing groups reported lower depression than the control group at one-week follow-up ( p < .05 for all). Differences were not significant at two months follow-up. This study indicates the feasibility of much-needed research into the risks and benefits for individuals of emerging lifestyle-related genetic susceptibility tests.