UK survey examines genetics, media and public

Around 75 per cent of people asked about the cloning of embryos for medical research purposes were not aware that this type of work is now permitted in the UK, a recent survey found. However, over 60 per cent knew that the main aim of stem cell research is to create cells for treating disease, and almost half knew that the mapping of the human genetic code was a recent key development in biotechnology. The findings form part of a report entitled 'Towards a better map: Science, the public and the media', published by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The researchers questioned over 1000 adults in April 2002, and again in October 2002, about their knowledge of genetics and cloning developments. The House of Lords voted to allow scientists to study cloned human embryos in order to develop new disease treatments in February 2002.

The study looked at the media coverage and public knowledge of three science topics: climate change, the combined MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine, and cloning and genetic medical research. It found that although most people (68 per cent) claim to be 'not very well informed' about human genetics research compared to the other two topics, their knowledge of all three areas was roughly the same. The researchers also asked participants what they thought about recent advances in genetic research, and in October 2002, 42 per cent believed such developments were encouraging, while 33 per cent thought they were worrying. When asked if the government was doing enough to regulate their potential abuse, just 18 per cent thought it was, with 38 per cent saying it was not and 44 per cent unsure.

The report authors concluded: 'We find little evidence to support the idea that the presence of more science, scientists and science specialists in the media will increase the public understanding of science'. Instead, they suggest that what matters is 'not so much the science itself, but establishing clear connections between science, policy and the broader public interest'.