Angelina Jolie received widespread media attention in 2013 when she told the public that she'd tested positive for BRCA1, a gene associated with a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers. She subsequently had a double mastectomy. A North Carolina State University questionnaire was put online within three days of Jolie's announcement to see if the announcement influenced anyone's intention to get genetic testing. Of 229 females who answered the questionnaire, researchers found that 30% intended to get tested to see if they carried the BRCA1 gene, with 23% saying they would probably get tested, and 7% saying they would definitely get tested.
Poll Question:
Do you think celebrity announcements that they took a genetic test will generally increase the odds that more members of the public will undergo genetic testing?
Yes
85
No
31