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   Genetics Education

The pace of innovation in the field of Genetics has left much of the general public as well as professionals and others unprepared to interpret and properly use the new information available to them.  In addition, the basic genetics knowledge that most adults learned in school is now out of date, as are many published books on the subject.  Consequently, most people receive their genetics information from the media reports authored by journalists who are often ill prepared to interpret complex medical information or appreciate the many social and ethical implications of new discoveries.  The progress is so rapid that some medical professionals worry that there will never be sufficient time to remain current with new discoveries.  Thus, the need for genetics education has never been greater.

Key Concerns

The lack of a genetics knowledge base among many consumers and professionals poses several hazards:

• Discrimination and financial risk

• Missed health promotion opportunities

• Undue alarm and ill advised decisions

• Threatened research

A person's genetic code is highly personal and, in part, determines their identity and uniqueness.  It holds countless secrets about his or her present and future health and well-being.  And with every discovery, our society comes closer to unlocking those secrets.  whether that information contributes positively or negatively to our health and welfare, or undermines our mental health, financial security, and civil liberties, depends in large part on the availability of individuals and communities to become well educated about genetics and its diverse implications.

Washington State Genetics Education Plan

In 1997 the Washington State Department of Health recruited a diverse group of stakeholders to comprise a Genetics Education Steering Committee.  As part of this effort, research and public hearings were conducted by EvansGroup, who used the information gathered to draft a plan for delivering well coordinated and comprehensive genetics education to Washingtonians over the next three to five years.  The plan is intended to be a living document, designed for implementation and revision as needed to reflect new understanding in a changing environment.  In 2004 the plan will be revisited.

Washington State Genetics Education Plan

Genetics Home

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Contact Information:

Genetics Services Section (253) 395-6741/E-Mail

 

Mailing Address:

Genetics Services Section

Department of Health

20435 72nd Avenue South, Suite 200  MS: K17-8

Kent, WA 98032

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Last Update : 06/16/2005 11:43 AM