Critical appraisal of the private genetic and pharmacogenomic testing environment in Greece

Aim: In the postgenomic era, we are witnessing rapid progress in the identification of the molecular basis of human inherited disorders and the elucidation of genotype–phenotype relationships. The rate of progress has been driven not only by the determination and ongoing decipherment of the human genome sequence but also by the advent of new technological developments that have dramatically reduced the costs of genetic analysis. As a consequence, a considerable number of genetic testing centers have emerged, both in Europe and the USA, which together offer a plethora of different genetic tests. Methods: We have performed a nationwide survey of 18 private genetic testing laboratories in Greece in order to acquire a better understanding of the genetic testing services that these centers provide, specifically the types of genetic test offered, the target groups, marketing channels, costs of analysis and accreditation. Results: Molecular genetic and cytogenetic testing were found to be the predominant types of genetic testing services offered although there is an increasing demand for pharmacogenomic testing. The main target group for private genetic testing laboratories is the physicians who are approached via the internet, through personal contacts from sales representatives and at scientific conferences. Genetic testing costs are fairly low in Greece. Although the majority of private genetic laboratories either employ or collaborate with a genetic counselor, few of them are accredited for the provision of genetic testing services. Conclusion: This study constitutes the basis for a critical appraisal of the private genetic testing environment in Greece and provides a model for replication in other European countries

A critical view of the general public's awareness and physicians' opinion of the trends and potential pitfalls of genetic testing in Greece

Aim: Progress in deciphering the functionality of the human genome sequence in the wake of technological advances in the field of genomic medicine have dramatically reduced the overall costs of genetic analysis, thereby facilitating the incorporation of genetic testing services into mainstream clinical practice. Although Greek genetic testing laboratories offer a variety of different genetic tests, relatively little is known about how either the general public or medical practitioners perceive genetic testing services. Materials & methods: We have therefore performed a nationwide survey of the views of 1717 members of the general public, divided into three age groups, from all over Greece, and residing in both large and small cities and villages, in order to acquire a better understanding of how they perceive genetic testing. We also canvassed the opinions of 496 medical practitioners with regard to genetic testing services in a separate survey that addressed similar issues. Results: Our subsequent analysis indicated that a large proportion of the general public is aware of the nature of DNA, genetic disorders and the potential benefits of genetic testing, although this proportion declines steadily with age. Furthermore, a large proportion of the interviewed individuals would be willing to undergo genetic testing even if the cost of analysis was not covered by healthcare insurance. However, a relatively small proportion of the general public has actually been advized to undergo genetic testing, either by relatives or physicians. Most physicians believe that the regulatory and legal framework that governs genetic testing services in Greece is rather weak. Interestingly, the vast majority of the general public strongly opposes direct-access genetic testing, and most would prefer referral from a physician than from a pharmacist. Conclusion: Overall, our results provide a critical evaluation of the views of the general public with regard to genetics and genetic testing services in Greece and should serve as a model for replication in other populations