Scoping Review Maps African Attitudes Toward Genetic Testing

A new scoping review published in BMC Medical Ethics synthesizes qualitative evidence regarding attitudes and experiences toward diagnostic and research genetic testing across Africa. The study, led by Olivier Sibomana and Egide Ndayambaje, aims to clarify the social and cultural factors that influence the adoption of genetic testing in the region. Although genetic testing is transforming healthcare by enabling early diagnosis and personalized treatment, its uptake in Africa remains limited.

The researchers followed the Arksey and O’Malley framework to conduct this scoping review. A structured literature search was performed across several databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), and African Journals Online (AJOL). Predefined search terms were used to identify relevant studies, while grey literature was identified through manual searches. To ensure the evidence was current and relevant, all searches were limited to publications released between 2010 and 2025. Studies were screened against specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data from the selected articles were extracted and analyzed thematically.

From an initial pool of 1,013 identified records, only 16 studies met the inclusion criteria for the review.

One of the primary findings was the low level of awareness of genetic testing among African populations. Many individuals associated genetic testing primarily with paternity testing, indicating a narrow understanding of its broader medical applications. Despite this low awareness, the review found a broad willingness to undergo testing, particularly when the procedure was recommended by healthcare providers.

Several major barriers to the adoption of genetic testing were identified in the review. High costs emerged as a significant obstacle, especially for individuals seeking testing outside of research settings. In addition to cost, ethical concerns and emotional distress were reported as challenges. Participants expressed fear of stigma, particularly regarding how test results might affect marriage or pregnancy decisions.

The desire to receive genetic test results was mixed among the participants. Many wished to receive their results to make informed health choices, reflecting a value for autonomy and knowledge. However, others declined to receive results when no cure was available for the conditions identified. Researchers involved in the included studies recognized the importance of returning results to participants but cited logistical challenges and a lack of trained counselors as significant hurdles.

The review concludes that attitudes toward genetic testing in Africa are characterized by both openness and concern. While there is a willingness to engage with genetic testing, particularly when endorsed by healthcare providers, significant barriers remain. Addressing these barriers requires a multifaceted approach that includes culturally sensitive counseling, improved infrastructure, and the training of specialized personnel. Supportive policies are also essential to promote ethical and equitable access to genetic services.

Subject of Research: Qualitative attitudes and barriers to genetic testing in Africa

Article Title: Attitudes and experiences toward diagnostic and research genetic testing in Africa: a scoping review of qualitative studies

Article References: Sibomana, O., & Ndayambaje, E. (2026). Attitudes and experiences toward diagnostic and research genetic testing in Africa: a scoping review of qualitative studies. BMC Medical Ethics. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12910-026-01628-8

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1186/s12910-026-01628-8

Keywords: genetic testing, Africa, scoping review, qualitative research, healthcare ethics, genomics, patient attitudes, medical barriers, Attitudes, experiences, toward, diagnostic