Future Forecasting for Research and Practice in Genetic Literacy
Kimberly A. Kaphingst
Abstract
Information generated by genomic discoveries is increasingly accessible in clinical, public health, and direct-to-consumer contexts, reaching broader segments of the population than with traditional genetic services models [1]. With this expansion has come a recognition of the critical importance of communicating about genetics and genomics in ways that support access to, decisions about, and utilization of genetic information. Individuals' genetics-related knowledge and skills, or their "genetic literacy," are critical to the reach and effective utilization of genomic technologies [2-5]. The importance of genetic literacy is further heightened in public health contexts as individuals may access and use genomic technologies without a learned intermediary such as a genetics provider. However, available evidence highlights important gaps in genetic literacy throughout the population, limiting the potential use of these technologies to improve the health of individuals, their families, and their communities. Effective communication approaches are needed to meet the needs of individuals with varying levels of genetic literacy and from different communities. To achieve this goal, this piece highlights essential areas of research and practice in genetic literacy that are needed to inform public health translation of genomic discoveries in ways that are effective and equitable.