Impact of Receiving Genetic Risk Information for Cardiovascular Disease on Risk Factor Modification, and Associated Behavioural and Psychological Behaviours: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant public health concern, influenced by both genetic susceptibility and lifestyle factors. The integration of genetic risk information into clinical practice is gaining attention for its potential to enhance CVD prevention and management.

Objectives

To systematically review the impact of providing individuals with genetic CVD risk information on modifying risk factors, influencing health behaviours, and affecting psychological outcomes.

Methods

Following the JBI methodology and adhering to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, four electronic databases were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the impact of genetic risk information on CVD management. Data from RCTs were synthesised using a meta-analytic approach to quantify the impact of genetic risk information.

Results

From 11 retrieved RCTs:

Risk factors (n=4): Limited impact on traditional risk factors, e.g. systolic blood pressure and total cholesterol (mean changes of +1.41 mmHg and +0.09 respectively, both p> 0.05).

Health behaviours (n=4): Improved dietary behaviours with a risk ratios of 1.52, (p=0.03), but inconclusive effects on physical activity and medication adherence.

Psychological responses (n=7): Minimal changes in psychological outcomes, including a slight decrease in depression (-0.30, p>0.05), with no significant effects on anxiety or readiness to change (p>0.05).

Concerns regarding bias across all studies were noted.

Conclusion

The provision of genetic CVD risk information shows promise in promoting health behaviour changes, yet demonstrates limited impact on clinical risk factors and psychological outcomes. The quality of studies was variable and highlights the need for more definitive evidence on these outcomes and their long-term durability.