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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Acceptance of Genetic Engineering Among Adults in the UAE: A Cross-Sectional Study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Genetic engineering has emerged as a transformative technology with significant implications for healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Despite its potential benefits, public perception and acceptance of genetic engineering vary widely across different regions and populations. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of genetic engineering among adults in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire specifically designed to evaluate multiple aspects relevant to the objectives of the study. Participants were recruited through online platforms, mainly WhatsApp and LinkedIn. Eligible individuals were adults aged 20 to 50 years, fluent in Arabic or English, and residing in the UAE. Those who were nonresidents, declined consent, or lacked basic awareness of genetic engineering were excluded. The questionnaire assessed participants' knowledge of genetic engineering concepts, attitudes toward various applications, and overall acceptance of the technology. Demographic information was collected to analyze correlations with knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance levels. RESULTS: Out of the total 384 respondents, 300 participants met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Results indicated that while most participants (68%) had basic knowledge of genetic engineering, a detailed understanding of specific applications was limited. Attitudes toward genetic engineering were generally positive (57%), particularly regarding medical applications, though concerns about ethical implications and safety were prevalent. Acceptance levels were moderately high (63%), with education level and prior exposure to scientific information showing significant positive correlations with acceptance. In addition, there was strong opposition to its use in nonmedical contexts, such as determining physical traits or gender. Statistically significant associations were found between knowledge and nationality (p < 0.01), occupation (p < 0.01), and income (p = 0.025), as well as between attitudes and marital status (p = 0.045) and presence of genetic disease (p < 0.01). Positive attitudes were also significantly associated with higher acceptance (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study highlights that the majority of adults in the UAE possess some knowledge of genetic engineering and exhibit generally positive attitudes toward its application. While the findings suggest an overall acceptance of genetic engineering among participants, there remains a mix of positive and negative perceptions influenced by various demographic and sociocultural factors. These insights can inform targeted educational initiatives and policy development to enhance public understanding and responsible implementation of genetic engineering technologies in the UAE and similar developing regions.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.88365