Genetic knowledge and attitudes toward genomics across academic disciplines, a cross-sectional survey of university students in Samborondón, greater Guayaquil, Ecuador

Advances in genetics and genomics have enabled personalized medicine, requiring genetic knowledge among professionals and the public to adequately interpret results. Evaluating university students’ knowledge and attitudes about genetics and genomics is crucial, as this key demographic can influence public health outcomes. This cross-sectional study utilized the Public Understanding and Attitudes towards Genetics and Genomics (PUGGS) questionnaire, including demographics, knowledge about gene-environment interactions and modern genetics and genomics, and attitudes concerning gene therapy and genetic testing. Participants were selected using the convenience sampling method. Surveys were completed by 776 students from diverse academic disciplines enrolled at two universities in Greater Guayaquil, Ecuador. The median number of correct responses was 9/19 (49%) for the total cohort indicating an intermediate level of genetic knowledge, with healthcare students scoring slightly higher than those in engineering and social sciences. While participants showed strong comprehension of gene-environment interactions and gene regulation, their grasp of epigenetic concepts was weaker. Although attitudes toward genetic testing were generally positive, reservations emerged regarding human genetic enhancement and alterations to natural genetic structures, particularly among social science students. The identified gaps in knowledge and perceptions highlight opportunities for educational interventions. Future studies should track long-term progress and evaluate courses modernizing outdated concepts, clarifying genome structure, and exploring gene therapy ethics.