Attitudes about Return of Epigenetic Age Results among Latinx Adults

Abstract Epigenetic variation, especially DNA methylation, has been associated with numerous complex diseases. Epigenetic age is a fairly recent measurement that is associated with an individual’s biological age, and has recently been shown to contribute to general mortality, specifically with cardiovascular disease. Abundant evidence demonstrates that specific interventions (e.g., exercise, diet, smoking cessation) can alter, and more importantly improve, an individual’s epigenetic age acceleration. Although research has addressed attitudes and uptake of specific genetic tests, we do not know whether patients would want information about their epigenetic age or, among those who want their results, how they would respond to receipt of results. Furthermore, we are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of understanding perspectives held by underrepresented populations about the use and implementation of genomic technology. However, such knowledge is often limited. To address this gap in knowledge and to ensure that perspectives of underserved minorities are not overlooked, we will conduct semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 40 1st and 2nd generation Mexican immigrant adults for whom their existing epigenetic age has already been determined as part of a currently funded grant (# R01 MD017006). The interviewer will elicit detailed responses from the participants about perceived benefits and drawbacks of being informed about their epigenetic age, and ask whether they want to receive their epigenetic age test result. Those who opt to receive their epigenetic age will receive them, and then will immediately be asked to briefly respond to a few open-ended questions. Three months later, all participants will engage in a final semi-structured, in-depth interview about the perceived benefits and drawbacks of being able to receive one’s epigenetic age. Through systematic analysis of interview transcripts, we will (1) delineate the perceived benefits and drawbacks to receiving results of epigenetic age test results reported by 1st and 2nd generation Mexican immigrant adults prior to receipt of test results, and (2) identify and delineate the perceived benefits and drawbacks to receiving results of epigenetic age test results reported by 1st and 2nd generation Mexican immigrant adults immediately, and three months after, receipt of test results. We will also determine if responses vary by the difference between each participant’s biological and chronological age.