Table 1 Overview of feedback on the RiskProfile
Domain | Theme | Meaning | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
Motivations for receiving the RiskProfile | Strong interest in the genetics of smoking | Broad interest in the genetic underpinnings of smoking and personal interest in individualized risk for developing smoking-related disorders | “I guess how [smoking] related to my DNA, and if there was something [the RiskProfile] could tell me that I didn’t already know.”—Male, aged 60–69 |
Information-seeking | Wanted to gain specific information about smoking, such as how to quit, risk for smoking-related disorders (not a genetics-related interest), and why they smoke | “I really wanted to know is it me being stupid and stubborn or is there something more to why it’s been so hard for me over all these years?”—Male, aged 40–49 | |
Perceived utility of the RiskProfile | Informing and educating | Found that the tool helped provide useful information about the risks of smoking as well as education about their own health and risk | “It’s just helpful by putting it in your face, honestly. […] I know a lot of people, including myself, who can be in denial about how at risk you are and [the RiskProfile] puts it out there in front of you.”—Male, aged 20–29 |
Motivating | Noted that the tool was motivating for smoking cessation attempts and lifestyle changes | “I think it could help people realize there is a reason that they’re craving cigarettes or nicotine. And have them be a little more serious about looking for […] extra added aids and quitting. Instead of just trying to […] quit cold turkey.—Female, aged 40–49 | |
Potential concerns about using the Risk Profile | No concerns | Noted that they did not have any concerns about using the tool | “Do I have any concerns about it? No, I wholeheartedly agree with it.”—Male, aged 70–79 |
Lack of utilization | Potential for the tool to be under-utilized or not utilized at all for a variety of reasons | “Getting the information and not following through with […] trying to stop”—Female, aged 60–69 | |
Privacy | Fear of genetic information being misused by third parties, including 23andMe, insurance companies, and the government | “My only fear is that [my genetic information] may get out to the public and insurance companies may use that against me.”—Male, aged 40–49 | |
Suggestions for improving the effectiveness of the RiskProfile | Leave as-is | Noted a preference for not revising the tool | “No, I don’t know. I can’t think of anything.”—Male, aged 40–49 |
Improve jargon, technical details, and layout | Noted ways that the formatting and content of the tool could be enhanced | “Dumbing it down a little bit so that you’re not talking about […] specific chromosomes, and gene markers, and stuff. I can’t follow that.”—Male, aged 20–29 | |
Improve impact and meaningfulness | Centered around more personalized improvements that could be made to the tool | “Well if there was a way to pinpoint which smoking cessation aid would be best for a specific person.”—Female, aged 60–69 | |
General positive feedback | – | Offered in all domains about various aspects of the tool | “I think everything I’ve seen so far is fantastic.”—Male, aged 20–29 |