1. Models of communication for polygenic scores and associated psychosocial and behavioral effects on recipients: A systematic review.
- Author
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Wallingford, CK, Kovilpillai, H, Jacobs, C, Turbitt, E, Primiero, CA, Young, M-A, Brockman, DG, Soyer, HP, McInerney-Leo, AM, Yanes, T, Wallingford, CK, Kovilpillai, H, Jacobs, C, Turbitt, E, Primiero, CA, Young, M-A, Brockman, DG, Soyer, HP, McInerney-Leo, AM, and Yanes, T
- Abstract
PURPOSE: This study aimed to systematically review current models for communicating polygenic scores (PGS) and psycho-behavioral outcomes of receiving PGSs. METHODS: Original research on communicating PGSs and reporting on psycho-behavioral outcomes was included. Search terms were applied to 5 databases and were limited by date (2009-2021). RESULTS: In total, 28 articles, representing 17 studies in several disease settings were identified. There was limited consistency in PGS communication and evaluation/reporting of outcomes. Most studies (n = 14) presented risk in multiple ways (ie, numerically, verbally, and/or visually). Three studies provided personalized lifestyle advice and additional resources. Only 1 of 17 studies reported using behavior change theory to inform their PGS intervention. A total of 8 studies found no evidence of long-term negative psychosocial effects up to 12 months post result. Of 14 studies reporting on behavior, 9 found at least 1 favorable change after PGS receipt. When stratified by risk, 7 out of 9 studies found high PGS was associated with favorable changes including lifestyle, medication, and screening. Low-risk PGS was not associated with maladaptive behaviors (n = 4). CONCLUSION: PGS has the potential to benefit health behavior. High variability among studies emphasizes the need for developing standardized guidelines for communicating PGSs and evaluating psycho-behavioral outcomes. Our findings call for development of best communication practices and evidence-based interventions informed by behavior change theories.
- Published
- 2023