Achieving high rates of consent for genetic testing among African American smokers.

Genetic factors play an important role in smoking behavior. Although African Americans are at disproportionately increased risk for tobacco-related morbidity and mortality, limited attention has been given to genetic investigation of tobacco use in this population. The present study examined consent for genetic testing among African American smokers enrolled in a smoking cessation clinical trial. African American light smokers (</=10 cigarettes/day) enrolled in a smoking cessation study met with study counselors to review consent forms for an adjunct study and responded to a request for genetic analysis related to smoking. Participants completed assessment of demographic, psychosocial, and tobacco-related variables. Of 755 clinical trial participants, 745 (99%) responded to the genetic consent form. Of participants who responded, 620 (83%) provided consent for blood collection for genetic analysis. No significant differences were identified between individuals who consented to genetic analysis and those who denied consent. This study demonstrated the feasibility of obtaining consent for genetic analysis for smoking-related investigation among African American smokers. Findings support the inclusion of African Americans within genetic investigation of tobacco use and treatment.