Factors affecting intent to use consumer genetic tests : a revised technology acceptance model

Abstract

Genetic testing offers disease diagnosis and other information based on genetic material provided by an individual. Direct to consumer genetic tests bypass clinicianadministered tests in favour of direct sales and usage by consumers. The relative newness of consumer genetic testing to the South African market provides an opportunity for understanding the factors that would drive adoption of these products. An established technology acceptance model was enriched with factors important to clinical genetic testing and individual innovativeness. The model was tested through an online questionnaire with a nonprobability sample of 109 individuals. Factors including performance expectancy, social influence and discrimination concerns, were found to exhibit significant influence on consumers’ behavioural intention to use consumer genetic tests. These findings provide a theoretical framework of individuals’ attributes of importance for marketing and sales of consumer genetic tests. Copyright