Consumers Show Greater Approval for Genetic Testing Kits than Doctors
Consumers more likely to purchase genetic testing kits at pharmacies than online

Flemington, NJ, May 13, 2010 – Results of a new national media study among 400 consumers and 693 physicians revealed that consumers showed greater approval towards Walgreen’s sale of home genetic testing kits than physicians. While only 29% of physicians thought that I was appropriate for these tests to be sold at pharmacies, 74% of consumers felt that it was appropriate.

The study was conducted during May 12-13 to obtain physicians’ and consumers’ perceptions of a news 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.

While a small group of physicians (19%) indicated that they would be “extremely likely” or “somewhat likely” to recommend the home genetic tests to their patients, a greater percentage of consumers indicated that they would be “extremely likely” or “somewhat likely” to recommend the home genetic tests  to a relative (41%) or a friend (40%).

Among physicians, the majority (59%) stated that the results from a home genetic test kit would have no impact on their treatment plans for patients. However, the 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.

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