The proposed research will examine primary care physicians’ attitudes and beliefs about genetic causes of obesity in Black and White patients, as well as perceptions among Black and White adults with obesity of physicians who endorse genetic explanations of obesity, using a cross- sectional survey, experimental social science methodology, and qualitative focus-groups.

PROJECT NARRATIVE Recent progress in complex trait genetics, coupled with the technical ability to generate accurate genome-wide genotypes from single-cell input, has made it possible to genetically screen embryos for common polygenic traits and disease risk. However, little empirical work has been done to quantify the utility of polygenic embryo screening (PES), examine its ethical implications, and assess stakeholder perspectives. The proposed study is designed to provide the necessary empirical basis for informed ethical discussion.

PROJECT NARRATIVE The sickle cell trait (SCT) screening program of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is regarded as one of the largest mandated genetic screening programs in the United States (US). Estimates suggest that over 2,000 NCAA Division I student-athletes with SCT will be identified under the screening policy and that, without intervention, about seven NCAA Division I student-athletes would die suddenly from a complication of SCT over a 10-year period.