Analysis for efficacy of the New York Mid-Atlantic Consortium (NYMAC) brochures and assessment of genetic literacy in a Hispanic population found in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area

The genetic aspect of diseases serves as an important factor in disease prevention, management, and treatment (Collins et al. , 2001). The importance of genetics in health supports the need to incorporate the education of patients during the course of medical practice. The purpose for this study was to specifically analyze the efficacy and attractiveness of the NYMAC Your Health genetic awareness brochures, along with assessing genetic literacy and the perception of genetics for a Hispanic population found in the DC Metropolitan area. The Hispanic population was chosen due to the minimal data available regarding this group's knowledge, understanding, and perception of genetics. Brochures and surveys were distributed in Howard University medical clinics. Non-parametric statistical analysis provided evidence regarding differences between demographic categories. Seventy-five participants provided data, which revealed significant differences in the level of prior genetics knowledge between the Hispanic participants and others. No major differences were seen between these populations when addressing efficacy and attractiveness of the brochures. A significant difference was reported for the topic of genetic discrimination. The results indicate that the prior genetic knowledge in the Hispanic population differs from the comparison population and should be addressed when providing genetic services. Additionally, the issue of genetic discrimination did not present as a major concern for the Hispanic participants. These differences may influence the success of education programs targeted to specific populations.