The recent announcement from both the public and private sectors on the completion of the human genome sequence has raised hopes of a medical revolution that will lead to major advances in human health. To take full advantage of this momentous scientific achievement will require public confidence that the genetic knowledge gained about individuals and groups will be used appropriately to improve health and not to discriminate unfairly against people. This seminar provided an overview of genetic testing technology, what it can and cannot tell you, how your genes and the environment impact your health, and policy implications.

AAAS news release summarizing the briefing.

Directorates for Education & Human Resources and Science & Policy, American Association for the Advancement Science (AAAS)

Welcome and Introduction
     Mark S. Frankel, Ph.D.
     Program Director, Scientific Freedom, Responsibility and Law
     American Association for the Advancement of Science

The Science and Regulation of Genetic Testing
     Neil A. (Tony) Holtzman, M.D., M.P.H.
     The Johns Hopkins University
          The NIH-DOE Task Force on Genetic Testing
          HHS Secretary's Advisory Committee on Genetic Testing

Genes and Environment: Is It Nature or Nurture?
     Kenneth F. Schaffner, M.D., Ph.D.
     George Washington University
          Dr. Schaffner's slides: pdf (566kb) | ppt (171kb)
          Dr. Schaffner's handout: pdf (10kb)

Discussion and Closing Remarks
     Shirley Malcom, Ph.D.
     Head, Directorate for Education and Human Resources Programs
     American Association for the Advancement of Science

Please direct questions or comments to congress_center@aaas.org.
Last updated: June 14, 2001