Author(s): Muhammad Adzran Che Mustapa, Latifah Amin, Zurina Mahadi, Muhammad Rizal Razman
Advances in genetic research have greatly enhanced our understanding of diseases and have allowed improvements in terms of practical applications such as genetic testing (also known as DNA testing). Genetic testing (GT) is a type of medical test that looks for differences in the genetic makeup of individuals. The results of the test are useful with regard to informing people as to how to make decisions with regard to managing their healthcare. The successful implementation of the technology is heavily dependent on public support and acceptance, which translates into their intention to adopt the technology. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to examine stakeholdersâ intention and its associated predictors with regard to the adoption of GT in Malaysia. The final version of the validated questionnaire was developed and administered to a representative samples of the Malaysian population (n=421). Two stakeholder groups were considered in the form of representatives of local healthcare providers (n=221) and patients with genetic disease or their family members (n=200). The results of the study suggested that a high level of trust in key players, followed by the technology being highly accepted on religious grounds and their perception of the technology being highly beneficial, are factors with regard to supporting GT. In addition, Malaysian stakeholders reported themselves as being moderately engaged with medical genetics, and rated the risks and issues on GT as being moderate.