Human Genome Hispanic Outreach Initiative

The Human Genome Hispanic Outreach Initiative will be an informal educational outreach project introducing Hispanics adults (25-49 years old) to basic science concepts, technologies, and societal issues related to human genome research. All programs and materials will be developed in the Spanish-language. The project combines the power of Spanish language mass media, in the form of daily, nationally broadcast, radio capsules, weekly longer-format radio segments, and editorial features in newspapers, with an 800 toll free information and referral Helpline and a resource website. Evaluation will involve formative research with support from Hispanic genetics researchers and community members who will help shape and articulate message format and content. Outcome evaluation will focus on responses received on the 800 toll-free phone line and through our website. Both initial, brief contact surveys and more detailed follow up/call back surveys will provide outcome data. Outcomes will determine prior levels of knowledge among participants, knowledge gained after radio and newspaper series syndication, and series impact on baseline knowledge and interests related to the Human Genome Project (HGP)and the ethical, legal and social issues arising from the HGP