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Cutica I, Cincidda C, Oliveri S, Mainetti R, Borghese NA, Pravettoni G. Effectiveness of Serious Games in Improving Genetic Literacy and Genetic Risk Awareness in the General Public: A Pilot Study. Games Health J 2024; 13:75-83. [PMID: 37878321 DOI: 10.1089/g4h.2022.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Genomics is an integral part of medical science; however, European citizens' literacy on basic genetic concepts is still poor. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Serious Games (SGs) in increasing genetic literacy in laypeople and to assess the impact of SGs on participants' perceived self-efficacy (SE) in managing genetic risk implications. Materials and Methods: Two minigames and an adventure game were created, together with leaflets reporting the same information as the SGs. Sixty participants enrolled at baseline and completed a brief sociodemographic questionnaire and an ad hoc questionnaire assessing their genetic knowledge. They were assigned to the SGs group (30 subjects) or to the Leaflets group (30 subjects) by matching age and sex. Both groups had about 40 minutes to play the SGs or to read the leaflets. In the postlearning session, participants completed the same genetic knowledge questionnaires administered at baseline and five items from the Self-Efficacy Scale, whereas the SGs group also filled in the In-Game Experience Questionnaire. Results and Conclusion: Results showed that learning genetic concepts through SGs was comparable to learning through leaflets. Playing SGs was also associated with poor feelings of frustration or annoyance, good engagement in the game challenges and contents, and positive feelings, particularly in subjects under 30 years. Participants perceiving SE increased significantly in both Leaflets and SGs groups, but the effect was higher for SGs players. SGs have the potential to increase genetic literacy in the public by making the learning process more engaging, pleasant and by enhancing SE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Cutica
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Clizia Cincidda
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Serena Oliveri
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Renato Mainetti
- Applied Intelligent Systems Laboratory (AISLab), Department of Computer Science, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - N Alberto Borghese
- Applied Intelligent Systems Laboratory (AISLab), Department of Computer Science, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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Duarte MKRN, Leite-Lais L, Agnez-Lima LF, Maciel BLL, Morais AHDA. Obesity and Nutrigenetics Testing: New Insights. Nutrients 2024; 16:607. [PMID: 38474735 DOI: 10.3390/nu16050607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity results from interactions between environmental factors, lifestyle, and genetics. In this scenario, nutritional genomics and nutrigenetic tests stand out, with the promise of helping patients avoid or treat obesity. This narrative review investigates whether nutrigenetic tests may help to prevent or treat obesity. Scientific studies in PubMed Science Direct were reviewed, focusing on using nutrigenetic tests in obesity. The work showed that few studies address the use of tools in obesity. However, most of the studies listed reported their beneficial effects in weight loss. Ethical conflicts were also discussed, as in most countries, there are no regulations to standardize these tools, and there needs to be more scientific knowledge for health professionals who interpret them. International Societies, such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Brazilian Association for the Study of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome, do not recommend nutrigenetic tests to prevent or treat obesity, especially in isolation. Advancing nutrigenetics depends on strengthening three pillars: regulation between countries, scientific evidence with clinical validity, and professional training.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lúcia Leite-Lais
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
| | - Lucymara Fassarella Agnez-Lima
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Postgraduate Program, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
| | - Bruna Leal Lima Maciel
- Department of Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
| | - Ana Heloneida de Araújo Morais
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Postgraduate Program, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
- Department of Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
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Busacchio D, Mazzoni D, Mazzocco K, Pricolo P, Summers PE, Petralia G, Pravettoni G. Psychological characteristics and satisfaction for the whole-body MRI in cancer screening. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:548-554. [PMID: 36148490 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2126989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WB-MRI) is an all-in-one non-invasive technique that can be used also in early cancer diagnosis in asymptomatic individuals. The aim of this work was to identify the personal characteristics predicting the satisfaction for the WB-MRI in a sample of healthy subjects. Before undergoing a WB-MRI examination, 154 participants completed a questionnaire covering sociodemographics (age, gender, education), personality traits (agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional stability, extroversion, openness), and expectations about the procedure (expected usefulness, risks, noise, lack of air, duration). After the examination, participants reported their satisfaction with the WB-MRI. Results showed that agreeableness had a significant and positive effect on satisfaction. Expectations about its utility and the possible noise had a positive effect on satisfaction. Expectations of lack of air showed a negative significant effect on satisfaction. Sociodemographics showed no significant effects. Our study confirmed the important impact of individuals' personality and expectations on satisfaction with the procedure. Moreover, it provides useful insights for developing consultations aimed at increasing the acceptability of the procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derna Busacchio
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Mazzoni
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ketti Mazzocco
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Pricolo
- Division of Radiology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Paul E Summers
- Division of Radiology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Petralia
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Precision Imaging and Research Unit - Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Cincidda C, Pizzoli SFM, Ongaro G, Oliveri S, Pravettoni G. Caregiving and Shared Decision Making in Breast and Prostate Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:803-823. [PMID: 36661710 PMCID: PMC9857468 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30010061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A cancer diagnosis can impact patients' and caregivers' lives, posing different challenging situations. In particular, breast cancer and prostate cancer are two types of cancer involving families and especially spouses in challenges linked with the diagnosis and treatment process. Caregivers are usually involved in the treatment decision-making (TDM) process concerning patients' clinical pathway, cancer treatment, and ongoing therapies. To date, no contributions provide an exhaustive overview of the role of caregivers in cancer care and their involvement in the TDM process related to the therapies. METHODS We performed a systematic review of caregiver and patients experiences and perceptions of caregiver involvement in cancer TDM. Articles were searched on Public/Publisher MEDLINE (PubMed), Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), and American Psychological Association APA PsycINFO. RESULTS 17 studies were included, 10 on prostate cancer and 7 on breast cancer. According to the reviewed studies, patients and caregivers experienced the cancer diagnosis with a sense of unity. Most patients preferred to have an active or collaborative role with caregivers in TDM, feeling it was important to consult or share the decision made with their caregivers. Caregivers preferred to collaborate with patients or let patients decide by themselves after considering their opinions. Caregiver involvement could have a positive influence on the patient's medical decisions, even if cancer diagnosis and treatments overwhelmed patients and caregivers. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the importance of using a perspective that focuses on the relationship between a patient and caregivers when they receive a cancer diagnosis and have to make a treatment decision. Targeting caregiver-patient dyads, rather than individuals, is important since a supported relationship could have a protective effect on psychological distress, quality of life (QOL), and relationship satisfaction. Moreover, dyads may benefit from interventions that focus on the needs of both the patient and caregiver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clizia Cincidda
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milano, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Ongaro
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milano, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Serena Oliveri
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milano, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy
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Galluzzi S, Pievani M, Zanetti O, Benussi L, Frisoni GB, Di Maria E. Disclosure of Genetic Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease to Cognitively Healthy Individuals-From Current Practice towards a Personalised Medicine Scenario. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123177. [PMID: 36551936 PMCID: PMC9775740 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a genetically complex disorder. In addition to the relatively small number of pathogenic variants causing autosomal dominant AD, many others have been associated with the much more common sporadic form. The E4 allele of the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is the first discovered genetic risk factor for AD. In addition, more than 70 genetic risk loci contributing to AD have been identified. Current guidelines do not recommend AD susceptibility genetic testing in cognitively healthy adults because the implications for clinical care are limited. However, secondary prevention clinical trials of disease-modifying therapies enrol individuals based on genetic criteria, and participants are often informed of APOE testing results. Moreover, the availability of direct-to-consumer genetic testing allows individuals to learn their own AD genetic risk profile without medical supervision. A number of research protocols for AD susceptibility genetic testing have been proposed. In Italy, disclosure processes and protocols beyond those developed for inherited dementia have not been established yet. We reviewed the literature on the current practice and clinical issues related to disclosing AD genetic risk to cognitively healthy individuals and provide suggestions that may help to develop specific guidelines at the national level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Galluzzi
- Laboratory Alzheimer’s Neuroimaging & Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, 25125 Brescia, Italy
| | - Michela Pievani
- Laboratory Alzheimer’s Neuroimaging & Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, 25125 Brescia, Italy
| | - Orazio Zanetti
- Memory Clinic, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, 25125 Brescia, Italy
| | - Luisa Benussi
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, 25125 Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni B. Frisoni
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Geneva Memory Center, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, Geneva University Hospitals, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emilio Di Maria
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- University Unit of Medical Genetics, Galliera Hospital, 16128 Genoa, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Ongaro G, Brivio E, Cincidda C, Oliveri S, Spinella F, Steinberger D, Cutica I, Gorini A, Pravettoni G. Genetic testing users in Italy and Germany: Health orientation, health-related habits, and psychological profile. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2022; 10:e1851. [PMID: 35166046 PMCID: PMC8922951 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rapid advances in genomic knowledge and widespread access to the web contributed to the development of genetic services by private companies or medical laboratories. In the European landscape, though, there is not a single coherent regulatory approach to genetic testing (GT). The study aimed to investigate differences and similarities between two populations of GT users, Italians and Germans, in terms of health‐related behaviors, psychological characteristics, and attitudes toward genetic information. Methods Ninety‐nine Italian GT users from one private genetic company and 64 Germans GT users from one medical laboratory, completed an ad hoc self‐administered questionnaire. Results Results showed significant differences in health‐related behaviors (unhealthy eating behaviors, smoking behaviors, and frequency in medical check‐ups), with Germans reporting higher levels of unhealthy eating habits and smoking behaviors than Italians; Italian users also were more medically controlled. Furthermore, German participants were less willing to change their lifestyle following the GT results compared to Italian participants. Regarding psychological variables, German users felt more confident about their physical well‐being and they seemed more motivated than Italians to avoid becoming unhealthy. Finally, two samples differed in the way they accessed genetic testing (with the Italians guided predominately by a physician in contrast with the Germans who were recommended by friends) and managed genetic testing results (with Italian participants significantly more willing to share results with doctors than German participants, who preferred sharing with the family). Conclusion The analysis of cultural and organizational differences could help in defining adequate guidelines for counseling, and provide inputs for regulators in different European contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ongaro
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Brivio
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Clizia Cincidda
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Serena Oliveri
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Steinberger
- Institute for Humangenetics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Bio.logis Digital Health GmbH, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Bio.logis Center for Humangenetics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ilaria Cutica
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gorini
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Oliveri S, Cincidda C, Ongaro G, Cutica I, Gorini A, Spinella F, Fiorentino F, Baldi M, Pravettoni G. What people really change after genetic testing (GT) performed in private labs: results from an Italian study. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 30:62-72. [PMID: 33840815 PMCID: PMC8738765 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00879-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the widespread diffusion of direct-to-consumer genetic testing (GT), it is still unclear whether people who learn about their genetic susceptibility to a clinical condition change their behaviors, and the psychological factors involved. The aim of the present study is to investigate long-term changes in health-related choices, individual tendencies and risk attitudes in an Italian sample of GT users. In the context of the Mind the Risk study, which investigated a sample of Italian adults who underwent GT in a private laboratory, 99 clients participated in the follow up assessment. They completed a self-administered questionnaire investigating: (a) clinical history and motivation for testing, (b) lifestyle and risk behaviors, (c) individual tendencies toward health, and (d) risk-taking attitude and risk tolerance. Such variables were measured at three different time-points: T0—before GT, T1—at 6 months after genetic results, and T2—at 1 year from results. Results showed that, at baseline, participants who stated they intended to modify their behavior after GT results, effectively did so over time. This result held both for participants who received a positive or negative test result. In general, a healthier diet was the most frequently observed long-term behavioral change. As regards psychological variables, a risk-taking attitude and risk tolerance did not seem to affect the decision to change the lifestyle. Finally, we found an overall reduction in anxiety and worry over health over time, but also a reduction in the motivation for health promotion and prevention, health esteem, and positive expectations for their health in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Oliveri
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
| | - Clizia Cincidda
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Ongaro
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cutica
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gorini
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Marina Baldi
- GENOMA Group, Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology (DIPO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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