The impact of information order on intentions to undergo predictive genetic testing: An experimental study

As predictive genetic testing availability increases so does our need to understand factors associated with test uptake. This study tests whether the order positive and negative information about genetic testing for breast cancer is presented in affects intention to take a genetic test. Eighty-four women were randomly allocated into three groups: (1) positive then negative information; (2) negative then positive information; and (3) a control group. A significant effect was found in relation to perceived risk, attitudes towards genetic testing, perceived disadvantages of testing and intention. Our findings point to a primacy effect, whereby information presented first has the greatest effect.