Genomics and reproductive choices: Chinese Americans' views regarding U.S. newborn screening tests

The Asian American population is the third largest minority group in the United States; however, their views regarding health issues tend to be under represented. In recent years, advanced genomic technologies have already made it possible to test newborns for various diseases and traits. To reduce genomics-related health disparities, it is critical to explore Chinese Americans' (the largest Asian American subgroup) views about newborn screening tests. Forty-nine Chinese Americans were selected for in-depth qualitative interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed through thematic analysis with the assistance of NVivo8. While 22.4% of participants refused to test their newborns for any kinds of diseases, most were interested in newborn screening tests. Specifically, they would like to test their newborns for chronic diseases (18.4%), IQ (16.3%), all kinds of diseases and traits (12.2%), mental disorders (10.2%), genetic disorders (6.1%), physical disabilities-related diseases (2.0%), and other specific disorders. In summary, this study found that albeit newborn screening programs have been implemented in the United States for several decades, over one-fifth of Chinese Americans in the sample postulated negative views regarding newborn screening tests. On the other hand, most participants were interested in testing their newborns for non-traditional diseases and traits. In order to provide culturally competent, high-quality genomic services, health professionals should understand Chinese Americans' views about advanced genomic technologies in reproductive health. This particular group's voices should also be integrated into health policy making to promote social justice and reproductive choices.