New genetics poll results

Most people support genetics research aimed at developing new diagnostic tests and cures for human diseases, according to a new poll published last week. Over 1000 people took part in the survey, carried out by MORI (Market & Opinion Research International, Ltd.) for the UK's Human Genetics Commission (HGC).

Although 90 per cent of those interviewed agreed that advances in human genetics could and should be used to treat and diagnose diseases, three-quarters felt they do not know enough about the control of new biological developments. The survey also found that attitudes to genetics varied according to age, gender and ethnic background. For example, only one in 20 of those aged 16-24 agreed that a couple at risk of having a child with a serious genetic condition should be discouraged from having children of their own, whereas more than half of the participants over 55 agreed with this statement.

The survey also revealed that 80 per cent of those taking part felt that genetic information should not be used for setting insurance premiums. Baroness Helen Kennedy, chair of the HGC, said the findings gave 'an intriguing insight into people's hopes and worries about future developments in genetic technology'. The full report, entitled 'Public Attitudes to Human Genetic Information', is available on the HGC's website. The commission also invites further comments on its public consultation document, 'Whose hands on your genes', to be submitted before the extended 23 March 2001 deadline.