Mapping the human genome: an assessment of media coverage and public reaction.

Purpose: To assess public reactions to the June 26, 2000, announcement that scientists had nearly finished mapping the human genome.

Methods: We conducted a random-digit telephone survey of 407 Maryland residents as well as a content analysis of 55 relevant media reports.

Results: African Americans were more likely than Caucasians to report a negative reaction (P < 0.001) to the genome announcement. Overall, privacy/discrimination (16%) and human cloning (14%) were the most commonly mentioned concerns regarding the impact of the genome mapping.

Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for continued public discourse, including through the media, to address concerns regarding the Human Genome Project.