To disclose, or not to disclose? Perspectives of clinical genomics professionals toward returning incidental findings from genomic research

• DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00670-y
• Publication Date: 2021-07-27T07:03:11Z
• Authors: Isamme AlFayyad; Mohamad Al-Tannir; Amani Abu-Shaheen; Saleh AlGhamdi
• Keywords: Philosophy of medicine; Obligation; Bioethics

Abstract Background Clinical genomic professionals are increasingly facing decisions about returning incidental findings (IFs) from genetic research. Although previous studies have shown that research participants interested in receiving IFs, yet there has been an argument the extent of researcher obligation to return IFs. We aimed this study explore perspectives clinical genomics toward Methods conducted a national survey sample (n = 113) using convenient sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was used their attitudes disclosure perception duties IFs and identifying barriers for descriptive analysis employed describe participants' responses. Results Sixty-five (57.5%) respondents had faced practice 31 (27.4%) were not comfortable discussing with subjects. Less than one-third reported availability guidelines governing The majority 84 (80%) 69 (62.7%) indicated they would if risk disease threat ≥ 50% 6–49%, respectively 36 (31.9%) no Conclusion positive perceptions research, some revealed duty do so. Detailed must be established provide insights into how should handled