Mapping the human genome: an assessment of media coverage and public reaction.
OBJECTIVE
To assess public reactions to the June 26, 2000, announcement that scientists had nearly finished mapping the human genome.


METHODS
We conducted a random-digit telephone survey of 407 Maryland residents as well as a content analysis of 55 relevant media reports.


RESULTS
African Americans were more likely than Caucasians to report a negative reaction (P < 0.001) to the genome announcement. Overall, privacy/discrimination (16%) and human cloning (14%) were the most commonly mentioned concerns regarding the impact of the genome mapping.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings highlight the need for continued public discourse, including through the media, to address concerns regarding the Human Genome Project.
Tambor
Ellen S
ES
Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Hygiene & Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
Bernhardt
Barbara A
BA
Rodgers
Joann
J
Holtzman
Neil A
NA
Geller
Gail
G
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015982:Bias; D003625:Data Collection; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D005260:Female; D030661:Genetic Privacy; D016045:Human Genome Project; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008396:Maryland; D008402:Mass Media; D008875:Middle Aged; D011639:Public Opinion; D013689:Telephone; D044465:White People