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Abstract

Background: Genetic disorders are prevalent in Palestine, posing significant health and social challenges. Nevertheless, little is known about genetic testing among the Palestinian population. This research aimed to examine the knowledge, awareness, and perception towards genetic testing for hereditary disorders among the public in Palestine. Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on a self-administered questionnaire comprising four sections, with a total of 42 closed-ended questions. These four sections evaluated the participants' demographic characteristics, as well as their knowledge, awareness and perceptions towards genetic testing for hereditary disorders. Results: Among the 438 respondents, 67.1% were females, and 79% were in the younger age range of 18–26 years old. A positive familial history of genetic or hereditary disorders was declared by 224 (51%). In this study, the knowledge, awareness, and perception of respondents were relatively good. Indeed, 370 (84.5%) had heard of genetic testing, 79.2% agreed it is important, and more than half of respondents considered the internet as their primary source of information about genetic testing. The highest percentage, 76.7%, was given to two statements: "Genetic testing is closely related to science and medicine" and "Genetic testing tells me the risk of acquiring certain diseases". The majority (83%) demonstrated adequate knowledge of genetic testing, influenced by factors such as the respondent's age, field of study, employment status, and residency, with each with a P-value of <0.001. Positive awareness of genetic testing was also influenced by the respondent's age, employment status, field of study, and whether they had heard of genetic testing or not, with a P-value of <0.001. A positive perception of genetic testing was associated with differences in gender, age, employment status, residency, field of study, and whether they had heard of genetic testing or not, each with a P-value of <0.001. Conclusion: Overall, there exists a good level of knowledge, awareness, and perception towards genetic testing among the Palestinian population. However, some gaps in applying this knowledge are evident, particularly in understanding the role of genetic testing in reducing the prevalence of genetic disorders, especially in certain cancers. This study revealed that familial hereditary and genetic disorders continue to be prevalent in Palestine. These findings underscore the need for stakeholders to take further actions to enhance genetic testing knowledge and address any gaps hindering the translation of this knowledge into more positive decisions. Ultimately, these efforts can contribute to reducing the prevalence of genetic disorders.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.59049/2790-0231.1297

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