Pharmacogenetics is one of the most promising areas in translational research. By predicting possible ineffectiveness and occurrence of side-effects, pharmacogenetic testing enables selection of the most suitable drug according to a patient's genetic make-up. However, clinical implementation of pharmacogenetic testing is occurring at a slow pace due to various challenges. In this research, the perception of the public regarding pharmacogenetic testing was evaluated. Participants had a positive overall perception of pharmacogenetic testing and presented expectations and concerns. Through assessment of patient perception, factors which need to be addressed to facilitate clinical implementation of pharmacogenetic testing were identified.

Auteur

Dominik Heuchel is a pharmacy student at the University of Bonn in Germany who worked on this research project at the Department of Pharmacy of the University of Malta during an Erasmus+ student mobility. Francesca Wirth is a Lecturer and Lilian M. Azzopardi is a Professor and Head of the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Malta.