Why Many Israelis Skip Genetic Testing Despite Coverage

A new study examined why many Israelis still avoid genetic testing, even though most of these tests are included in the health basket. Dr. Yifat Findling of the Nursing Department at Ashkelon Academic College discussed the findings in an interview with Channel 7. She conducted the research with Prof. Karen Dopllet.

The study found that fear is the biggest barrier. According to the results, 66% avoid testing because they are anxious about the outcome or discovering a medical problem. Another 61% lack basic knowledge about the purpose and importance of the tests. In addition, 43% said religious and cultural reasons, including concern about harming marriage prospects or social stigma, keep them away from testing. Despite subsidies, 44% still believe the tests are too expensive or not covered by insurance.

Findling said the researchers initially assumed the main obstacle would be ignorance about the tests. Instead, they found that inherited beliefs, religious views, and community norms strongly shape whether people get tested. She added that some people fear a negative result will leave a personal or family stigma and damage future matches for marriage.

Findling said that 75% of respondents said testing is important, but only 37% had actually done it. The study focused on academic respondents, and she said the results would likely be even lower in other populations. She pointed to the ultra-Orthodox “Dor Yesharim” testing system, which created a community norm for pre-marital screening. Findling said fears about breaking up a relationship are mistaken, because early detection can lead to IVF and the birth of a healthy baby. She said doctors play a major role in encouraging testing, since couples often consult them and are strongly influenced by their advice.