title: Exploring the public understanding of basic genetic concepts.
abstract: It is predicted that the rapid acquisition of new genetic knowledge and related applications during the next decade will have significant implications for virtually all members of society. Currently, most people get exposed to information about genes and genetics only through stories publicized in the media. We sought to understand how individuals in the general population used and understood the concepts of "genetics" and "genes." During in-depth one-on-one telephone interviews with adults in the United States, we asked questions exploring their basic understanding of these terms, as well as their belief as to the location of genes in the human body. A wide range of responses was received. Despite conversational familiarity with genetic terminology, many noted frustration or were hesitant when trying to answer these questions. In addition, some responses reflected a lack of understanding about basic genetic science that may have significant implications for broader public education measures in genetic literacy, genetic counseling, public health practices, and even routine health care.
authors.affiliation: Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, 11 50 W. Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0638, USA.
authors.forename: Angela D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Lanie
authors.forename: Toby Epstein
authors.initials: TE
authors.lastname: Jayaratne
authors.forename: Jane P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Sheldon
authors.forename: Sharon L R
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Kardia
authors.forename: Elizabeth S
authors.initials: ES
authors.lastname: Anderson
authors.forename: Merle
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Feldbaum
authors.forename: Elizabeth M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Petty
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005817:Genetic Counseling; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D009626:Terminology as Topic; D014481:United States