Genetic screening for quality-of-life improvement and post–genetic testing consideration in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The Saudi genome project started in 2013 with a great hope to improve medical care and disease prevention. Among the genes are those related to nutrition and fitness that can optimize an individual’s lifestyle. Our aim was to review the knowledge and acceptance of nutrition and fitness genetic testing to enhance the quality of life among the population of Saudi Arabia. For the study an electronic questionnaire consisting of 27 questions was prepared, and it was answered by 302 respondents. The respondents’ demographics showed about 50% of respondents were aged 18–25 years and about 50% of respondents were aged 26–60 years. More than 50% of respondents were interested in having a genetic test to enhance their health, while 40% were interested in having a genetic test to enhance their fitness. Less than 50% of respondents had an understanding of the effects of coffee, macronutrition and micronutrition, elements, and enzyme activity. These results represented a contribution to the discussion on the relevance of genetic testing validity and acceptance among the population of Saudi Arabia. The results might help in producing specific guidelines on genetic testing and genomic analysis and help in the implementation of fitness and future health plans in cooperation with Saudi genome projects. Future study will focus on population structure and genetic frequency related to specific diets or fitness. Significance statement The availability of genetic information in the era of omics has made it possible to use genetic information beyond rare genetic diseases. To test the population’s acceptance and knowledge of genetic testing use in disease prevention and improvement of wellness, we conducted a survey study. The outcomes indicate great acceptance and knowledge that will help us in the future to detect the frequency of different genes related to nutrition and fitness. These results might help in producing specific guidelines on genetic testing and genomic analysis and help in the implementation of fitness and future health plans in cooperation with Saudi genome projects.