High support for treating life-threatening rare diseases, Saudi public acceptance of gene editing hinges on regulation and ethics
Background
Genome editing technology, a key tool in precision medicine, emerges
Genome editing technology is considered one of the most noteworthy technologies in modern precision medicine and the field of rare disease treatment. This is because it has the potential to precisely modify genetic information and eliminate the root cause of the disease. Countries around the world recognize the potential of genomic medicine, and countries that are actively investing in bio-technology at the national level are focusing on proactively introducing next-generation therapies. However, compared to the rapid pace of technological advancement, the level of social consensus among the public that is ready to accept it has not yet been clearly established.
Lack of social acceptance analysis in emerging bio-power countries
No matter how excellent the treatment method, it is difficult to successfully establish it in the medical field unless it gains ethical acceptance and social trust from the public. Most existing public opinion surveys have been conducted in Western developed countries, so the reality of emerging regions such as the Middle East, where genomic research is rapidly expanding, has been shrouded in mystery. In regions that are rapidly growing in the field of genomic medicine, such as Saudi Arabia, there is an urgent need for research to specifically identify the public's understanding of and concerns about gene editing. Only when reliable data is accumulated can policymakers and the medical community establish socially and culturally appropriate clinical translation and promotion strategies.
Key Findings
Low awareness and high support revealed in a large-scale survey of 1,712 people
Recently published nationwide cross-sectional study quantified public perceptions based on a survey of 1,712 Saudi Arabian adults. The analysis revealed that less than half of the survey participants responded that they had previously heard of genome editing technology, indicating that public awareness is still in its early stages. However, despite the lack of technical information, it showed overwhelmingly high support for therapeutic applications. Specifically, in scenarios where genome editing is used to prevent and treat fatal serious diseases or life-threatening diseases, the majority of respondents expressed agreement.
Key factors influencing acceptance and the role of regulation
Statistical correlation and regression analysis were used to derive key variables that influence public acceptance. The factor that showed the strongest positive correlation was positive expectations for therapeutic effects and confidence in clinical benefits. On the other hand, concerns about potential risks such as side effects or misuse had a negative impact on acceptance, but the impact of risk concerns was moderate. In particular, it is noteworthy that respondents with higher levels of technical understanding showed a more cautious attitude towards ethical limitations. In addition, strong trust in the national regulatory system played a decisive role in amplifying public confidence in the actual clinical application of gene therapy.
Significance and Prospects
The need for bio-policy formulation that considers cultural context
This study is significant in that it empirically demonstrates large-scale public opinion in a non-Western country that seeks to lead genomic medicine. It reminds us that in order to accelerate the introduction of technology, communication with the public and religious and ethical discussions must accompany simple R&D investment. In particular, the public's high trust in the government and regulatory agencies can be a useful lever when designing policies, and establishing transparent and strict safety guidelines should be the top priority.
Overcoming the limitations of online surveys and future tasks
Since the survey was conducted in the form of a self-administered electronic questionnaire distributed online, caution is required in interpreting the results. There is a possibility that it may not perfectly represent the voices of various members of society, such as the elderly with limited access to information technology or low levels of education. In order to apply gene editing therapeutics in actual clinical settings in the future, more sophisticated face-to-face interviews and region-specific surveys should follow. Furthermore, when a life ethics standard based on religious beliefs is established in consideration of the conservative socio-cultural characteristics, a more complete foundation for translational medicine will be laid.
Genome editing technologies are transforming precision medicine and rare disease therapeutics; however, their responsible clinical integration depends on public awareness, ethical acceptance, and trust in regulatory oversight. Evidence from culturally diverse populations remains limited, particularly in regions undergoing rapid investment in genomic medicine. A large nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured, self-administered electronic questionnaire distributed to adults aged 18 years and older. The instrument assessed demographic characteristics, awareness of genome editing, perceived benefits and risks, ethical concerns, and acceptance of genome editing applications. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and regression analyses were performed to examine factors associated with acceptance. A total of 1,712 participants completed the survey. Fewer than half of respondents reported prior awareness of genome editing, indicating limited baseline familiarity. Support for therapeutic applications was high, particularly when interventions were framed as treatments for serious or life-threatening conditions. Favourable attitudes and perceived clinical benefit were strongly associated with acceptance, while perceived risk demonstrated a modest negative association. Greater awareness was associated with increased ethical caution. Trust in national regulatory frameworks significantly strengthened confidence in gene therapy applications. These findings indicate a relatively supportive public perspective toward therapeutic genome editing in Saudi Arabia, particularly when its use is framed within appropriate ethical and regulatory boundaries. By providing population level evidence from an underrepresented region undergoing rapid genomic development, this study offers insights that may inform culturally responsive policy, public engagement, and responsible clinical translation of genome editing technologies.
The data from this survey provides practical commercialization strategies for bio-pharmaceutical companies targeting emerging markets such as Saudi Arabia. Drug developers should pursue marketing strategies that secure public trust based on clear scientific evidence of therapeutic efficacy, rather than simply emphasizing technological superiority. In particular, an approach that alleviates unnecessary anxiety by publicly disclosing the transparency of the regulatory approval process is required. For example, when concluding a contract for the supply of rare disease gene therapy, a strategy that emphasizes compliance with national standard regulations based on close partnerships with local health authorities will be crucial for market success.