Research issues in genetic testing of adolescents for obesity.

Mary E Segal, Pamela Sankar, Danielle R Reed

Journal: Nutrition reviews 2004;62(8):307-20

PMID: 15478685

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Abstract

Obesity is often established in adolescence, and advances are being made in identifying its genetic underpinnings. We examine issues related to the eventual likelihood of genetic tests for obesity targeted to adolescents: family involvement; comprehension of the test's meaning; how knowledge of genetic status may affect psychological adaptation; minors' ability to control events; parental/child autonomy; ability to make informed medical decisions; self-esteem; unclear distinctions between early/late onset for this condition; and social stigmatization. The public health arena will be important in educating families about possible future genetic tests for obesity.

Address: Research Center for Health Care Decision-making, Inc., Wyndmoor, PA 19038, USA.

DOI: 10.1301/nr.2004.aug.307-320

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MeSH Terms: Adolescent, Genetic Predisposition to Disease, Genetic Research, Genetic Testing, Humans, Informed Consent, Mental Competency, Obesity, Parental Consent, Risk Assessment, Self Concept, United States