The diffusion of innovation: factors influencing the uptake of pharmacogenetics

Louise Fuks Nielsen, Claus Møldrup

    Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

    24 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    BACKGROUND: Inspired by diffusion research, this paper examines how perceived need, health status, experiences with medicine and testing, consumption of mass media and sociodemography influence the public's familiarity, knowledge, attitudes and intentions regarding pharmacogenetics. The objective is to identify factors affecting the adoption pattern of pharmacogenetics in the public. METHOD: The paper is based on an Internet-based questionnaire survey conducted in March 2005. A total of 3,000 representative Danes aged 18-70 years were included in the survey, representing a response rate of 58.9%. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: Knowledge of pharmacogenetics, and thus the diffusion of the technology, is influenced by medicine consumption, experienced lack of effect and side effects, use of medical testing and perception of societal need. Increased knowledge is seen in all cases. The general perception of and attitude to pharmacogenetics is related to prior use of medical tests and perception of societal need for pharmacogenetics, which in both cases indicates an increased positive approach.
    Original languageEnglish
    JournalCommunity Genetics
    Volume10
    Issue number4
    Pages (from-to)231-41
    ISSN1422-2795
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2007

    Keywords

    • Former Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences

    Cite this