Interim results of EUPHA network members’ s survey on Public Health Genomics

Background Despite the continuous emergence of new genomic applications that could be integrated in public health (PH) activities, little is known about PH professionals’ preparedness to incorporate genomics in their practice. A survey is currently on-going to assess EUPHA network members’ attitudes regarding their role in the implementation of public health genomics (PHG), and their knowledge and attitudes regarding genetic testing and the delivery of genetic services. Methods Invitation to take part in an on-line survey was included in EUPHA February 2017’s newsletter and was sent to the members of some of EUPHA thematic sections. An interim descriptive analysis of knowledge and attitudes was conducted, along with a univariate and multivariate analysis of their determinants. Results 176 people completed the questionnaire by April 2017; 12.2% of respondents were involved in PHG activities, while PHG was one of the main areas of work for 7.4% of them. Only 15.9% correctly identified all medical conditions for which there is (and there is not) evidence for implementing genetic testing, with higher rates among professionals involved in PHG activities (P = 0.001). Professionals not involved in PHG agreed to higher rates that investing in genomics may divert efforts and resources from addressing social and environmental causes of ill health (93.7% vs 62.1%, P = 0.000). Respectively 60.3% and 78.9% of respondents agreed that PHG needs to be grounded on evidence of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. The 62.5% of the sample agreed with all the proposed roles for PH professionals in putting PHG into practice. Conclusions This interim analysis shows a quite positive attitude but the need to increase knowledge of European PH professionals on PHG. Those directly involved in PHG activities tend to have a more positive attitude and a better knowledge; however, gaps are also evident in this group, suggesting the need for a stronger knowledge exchange among professionals.