2025 ACMG Foundation Awards and Presidential Plenary Session- Genetics in the Media – Entertainment, Public Education, Controversies and Ethical Dilemmas
19 Mar 2025
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Accredited:
- Accredited
Genetics and scientific discoveries have long captured the media’s attention, from television and movies to newspapers and magazines. Yet, many scholars are concerned that science and medicine are often inaccurately portrayed. Genetics and genomics, a relatively young field (ACMG founded in 1991), is no exception. Misrepresentations can leave the public with misconceptions about our profession and its implications.
The portrayal of genetics in film, perhaps most notably in GATTACA (1997), highlights issues like genetic discrimination and the ethics of genetic engineering—interestingly, even the film’s title is based on DNA’s four nucleotides. Television shows, on the other hand, have popularized the use of genetic techniques in crime-solving, introducing complex technologies to mainstream audiences. Meanwhile, print media—whether through newspapers, magazines, or books—often delves into intimate family issues, bringing genetic topics into the public consciousness in a personal way.
Since the advent of social media (Myspace in 2003, Facebook in 2004), patients and the public have increasingly used these platforms not only for connection but also for information—both accurate and inaccurate. While misinformation about medicine and science has existed since the early 20th century, social media has accelerated its spread, often leading to viral events that mislead or fuel public fear.
The media carries a moral and ethical responsibility to accurately depict the nuances of genetics. This plenary session will explore how genetics is represented across various media platforms, address public and professional concerns, and delve into the controversies and ethical dilemmas that arise. All this in a city renowned as the entertainment capital of the world.
The portrayal of genetics in film, perhaps most notably in GATTACA (1997), highlights issues like genetic discrimination and the ethics of genetic engineering—interestingly, even the film’s title is based on DNA’s four nucleotides. Television shows, on the other hand, have popularized the use of genetic techniques in crime-solving, introducing complex technologies to mainstream audiences. Meanwhile, print media—whether through newspapers, magazines, or books—often delves into intimate family issues, bringing genetic topics into the public consciousness in a personal way.
Since the advent of social media (Myspace in 2003, Facebook in 2004), patients and the public have increasingly used these platforms not only for connection but also for information—both accurate and inaccurate. While misinformation about medicine and science has existed since the early 20th century, social media has accelerated its spread, often leading to viral events that mislead or fuel public fear.
The media carries a moral and ethical responsibility to accurately depict the nuances of genetics. This plenary session will explore how genetics is represented across various media platforms, address public and professional concerns, and delve into the controversies and ethical dilemmas that arise. All this in a city renowned as the entertainment capital of the world.
Learning Objectives
- Enhance understanding of how genetics is portrayed across various media platforms
- Address the impact of misinformation, ethical concerns, and related issues on public understanding of genetics
- Examine the influence of media representations on public perceptions and attitudes towards genetics
- Explore how emerging technologies and media platforms are shaping the future of genetic information dissemination
Agenda
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Welcome and Introduction9:57 AM – 9:59 AM -
Welcome and ACMG Foundation Award Presentations10:02 AM – 10:15 AM -
Opening Remarks: The Intersection of Genetics, Media, and Public Perception10:15 AM – 10:20 AM
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Hollywood Genetics: Behind the Scenes as a Movie and TV Consultant10:20 AM – 10:45 AM -
Telling the Story of Genetics: Narratives That Shape Public Understanding10:45 AM – 11:05 AM
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Social Media is the Media: Raising Awareness of Genomics to Enhance Patient Care11:05 AM – 11:25 AM -
Sometimes the Plural of Anecdote IS Data: Representing our Patients Through Their Stories11:25 AM – 11:45 AM -
Panel DiscussionPanel Discussion and Q&A11:45 AM – 12:00 PM
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