Enhancing Autonomy in Biobank Decisions: Too Much of a Good Thing?

Mitchell PB1, Ziniel SI2,3,4, Savage SK5, Christensen KD6, Weitzman ER6,7, Green RC6,8, Huntington NL6,7, Mathews DJ1, Holm IA6,7.

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Abstract

The opportunity to receive individual research results (IRRs) in accordance with personal preferences may incentivize biobank participation and maximize perceived benefit. This trial investigated the relationship between parents' preferences and intent to participate (ITP) in biobank research utilizing their child's genetic information. We randomized parents of pediatric patients to four hypothetical biobanks, one of which employed a preference-setting model for return of results regarding their child. ITP was highest among those desiring all types of IRRs (93.3%) and decreased as participants became increasingly selective with their preferences ( p < .0001). We demonstrated that most parents would participate in a biobank that allows for preference setting; however, those who set preferences to receive a narrower set of IRRs are less likely to participate.