Chapter 9 - Engaging and Empowering Public and Professionals in Genomics

Genomics is undoubtedly a complex field, because of its scientific and technological underpinnings, and because of the psychological, social, and ethical implications for individuals and families. Promoting understanding and engagement of the public is crucial to maximizing the opportunities offered by its advances. The Let’s Talk About Genes project explored the feasibility and acceptability of engaging schoolchildren in Wales with genetic issues specifically related to cancer, using fun, games, and creative activities to see if cancer genetics literacy would increase over time and if they were able to produce an output to help convey some of these issues to their peers. The result is the Let’s Talk About Genes Rap. Engaging health professionals in genomics is equally important and one way this can be achieved is by using teaching approaches and resources that are relevant and memorable. Storytelling can be successfully adapted to provide a powerful and meaningful means of engagement in genomics education.