Flemington, NJ, May 18, 2010 – Results of a new national media study among 400 consumers and 693 physicians revealed that 74% of consumers reported that it was appropriate to sell home genetic testing kits in pharmacies, compared to 29% of physicians who indicated that it was appropriate to sell the kits in pharmacies.

The study was conducted during May 12-13 to obtain physicians’ perceptions of a video news report that Walgreens pharmacies will sell home genetic testing kits that assess the risk of developing dozens of health conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, breast cancer and heart disease. Walgreens has since postponed its plans to sell personal genetic test kits after the Food and Drug Administration intervened.

Among physicians, 19% indicated that they would be “extremely likely” or “somewhat likely” to recommend home genetic testing kits to their patients, compared to consumers who indicated that they would be “extremely likely” or “somewhat likely” to recommend home genetic testing kits to a relative (41%) or a friend (40%).

The majority of physicians (59%) reported that the results from a home genetic testing kit would have no impact on their treatment plans for patients. In contrast, a clear majority of consumers (72%) indicated that the test results would have a “moderate” or “high” impact on their daily health decisions.

Among the findings:

Is it appropriate for pharmacies to sell a home genetic testing kit?

Please indicate the likelihood that you will recommend the purchase of a home genetic testing kit to a:

Would test results from a home genetic test kit have an impact on your treatment plans for patients?

Please indicate how much impact the results of a home genetic test would have on your daily health decisions.