Year of Award

2024

Document Type

Professional Paper

Degree Type

Master of Science (MS)

Degree Name

Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Design

Department or School/College

Pharmaceutical Science and Drug Design

Committee Chair

Dr. Erica Woodahl

Commitee Members

Erica L. Woodahl, Hayley Blackburn, Katie Holick, James Caringi, Katrina Claw

Keywords

pharmacogenomics, pharmacogenetics, tobacco cessation, qualitative research, underserved communities

Publisher

University of Montana

Subject Categories

Medical Genetics | Other Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Abstract

Pharmacogenomics research has predominantly focused on populations of European ancestry, limiting the application for diverse populations such as American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) communities. Our community-centric study aims to understand perspectives of utilizing pharmacogenomics to guide tobacco cessation in an AIAN community using a survey with qualitative and quantitative components. We assessed participant (n=273) tobacco usage and cessation history, pharmacogenomics knowledge, and perceptions of utilizing pharmacogenomics in the context of tobacco cessation. We found that the majority of participants (92%) were aware of risks associated with tobacco usage and believe it to be a problem within their community (76%). Our results showed that 29% of participants had some level of knowledge regarding pharmacogenomics and only 6% had previously participated in pharmacogenetics research, demonstrating the need for further education and awareness. Community involvement was a priority for participants, with 64% preferring Tribal inclusion in all research stages and 63% favoring partnerships with local health centers. We also found support for future research, with 68% viewing pharmacogenomics as a beneficial tool. Concerns were raised regarding handling of genetic material and result dissemination emphasizing the importance of ethical research practices, transparent communication, and community partnership. Our findings serve as a foundation for shaping future research efforts and developing a framework for implementing tobacco cessation interventions. Our community-centered approach addresses the specific needs of this AIAN community and offers insights applicable to research practices within other underserved and marginalized populations, particularly those with a historical distrust towards research.

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