Policy and Attitudes towards Collection of Personal DNA in genetic databases in Japan

This paper presents the results of a public opinion research conducted in Japan on the willingness of persons to contribute their DNA to a genetic database, and the reasons behind their choices. The results are discussed in light of the Act Concerning Protection of Personal Information issued in 2003, and with reference to genetic database projects that have been conducted in Japan. There appears to be increasing concerns about privacy in Japan, despite a high level of support for science and technology. While 44% said they would agree to blood donation for a DNA bank, 28% were negative to donate, and another 28% answered they ”don’t know”. The reasons behind these choices and the concepts of storage of genetic databases are partially reflected in the guidelines applied to collection of genetic databases, but greater and more independent community engagement will be important to increase public involvement in large scale genetics projects in Japan.