Opinions about new reproductive genetic technologies: hopes and fears for our genetic future.
OBJECTIVE
To identify underlying beliefs and values shaping Americans' opinions about the appropriate use of new reproductive genetic technologies (RGTs), including preimplantation genetic diagnosis, hypothetical genetic modification, and sperm sorting for sex selection.


METHODS
Scenarios with ethical dilemmas presented to 21 focus groups organized by sex, race/ethnicity, religion, age, education, and parental status.


METHODS
A city in each state: California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Tennessee.


METHODS
One hundred and eighty-one paid volunteers, ages 18 to 68.


METHODS
None.


METHODS
Beliefs and values that shape participants' opinions about the appropriate use of new RGTs.


RESULTS
Regardless of demographic characteristics, focus group participants considered six key factors when determining the appropriateness of using RGTs: [1] whether embryos would be destroyed; [2] the nature of the disease or trait being avoided or sought; [3] technological control over "natural" reproduction; [4] the value of suffering, disability, and difference; [5] the importance of having genetically related children; and [6] the kind of future people desire or fear.


CONCLUSIONS
Public opinions about the appropriate use of RGTs are shaped by numerous complementary and conflicting values beyond classic abortion arguments. Clinicians and policy-makers have the opportunity to consider these opinions when creating messages and crafting policy.
Kalfoglou
Andrea L
AL
Genetics and Public Policy Center, Phoebe R. Berman Bioethics Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Washington, DC 20036, USA. khudson5@jhu.edu
Doksum
Teresa
T
Bernhardt
Barbara
B
Geller
Gail
G
LeRoy
Lisa
L
Mathews
Debra J H
DJ
Evans
John H
JH
Doukas
David J
DJ
Reame
Nancy
N
Scott
Joan
J
Hudson
Kathy
K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D005821:Genetic Techniques / Q000941:ethics / Q000639:trends*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019836:Preimplantation Diagnosis / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods / Q000639:trends; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods / Q000639:trends; D011639:Public Opinion; D027724:Reproductive Techniques, Assisted / Q000941:ethics / Q000639:trends*