Health beliefs and the intent to use predictive genetic testing for cystic fibrosis carrier status

Abstract

The utility of the health belief model (HBM) for predicting intent to use carrier screening for (CF) was considered. Using an analogue survey design, information about health beliefs and demographic variables was collected from a sample of 131 predominantly white men and women, aged 18-45 years. A multiple indicator model of the HBM constructs of perceived severity, beliefs and benefits was designed and tested for efficacy in distinguishing between those who indicated that they would and would not consider carrier screening. In total, 20% of the between groups variability was accounted for by the discriminant function model, with 10% attributed to the combined effects of the HBM, and the remainder attributed to age and marital status. The results of the study suggest that further exploration of individual health beliefs surrounding CF carrier testing may be useful to facilitate effective decision-making in genetic counselling situations.