This paper will discuss the opinions and attitudes of the American-Muslim community towards genomic technologies and its potential health applications, and the identification of community needs necessary to design health communication campaigns targeted to the Muslim community.
 

The overarching goal of this project is to engage the Muslim community in the national dialogue on the ethical, legal, and social implications of genomic technology, and to facilitate the integration of genomic knowledge and tools into the health care system through public education and engagement.

This study was conducted at the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services, in collaboration with Arab and Muslim community organizations in the Washington D.C. area.

Qualitative data from this study includes results from five one-on-one interviews with community leaders (Imams), and seven focus group sessions with community members.
 

Results showed that the American Muslim community has, in general, a positive opinion about the use of genetic technologies to determine disease risk and disease prevention. Nonetheless, they expressed serious concerns about a potential misuse of these technologies. Community leaders and members raised concerns regarding the confidentiality of the information, and the accessibility to these services. Additionally, participants suggested the use of community centers, especially health clinics, as the main venue to hold seminars and workshops to educate community members about a specific health topic. They also highly recommended the involvement of the religious leaders in disseminating health education programs to the community.