Medical faculty students investigation of attitudes towards genetic literacy

This research was carried out with the aim of examining the attitudes of Medical Faculty students towards genetic literacy issues. The research population is determined by 946 students studying at Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University Faculty of Medicine; The study was completed with 305 students who agreed to participate in the study and were transported. The data were collected by the researcher via the online (whatsapp) application through the Introductory Information Form, the Attitude and Understanding Scale towards Genetics and Genetic Practices. The knowledge of the students studying at the medical faculty about genetic literacy was investigated according to various variables (gender, age, class, income level and whether or not they received education on genetics). SPSS 20 (Statistical Package for Social Science) package program was used in the analysis of the data. The significance level in the study was accepted as p<0.05. It was observed that 51.50% of the medical students in the study group were women, 66.23% were between the ages of 20-23, 25. 60% were 3rd year students, 75.40% had income equal to their expenses, and 68.50% did not receive education on genetics. Within the scope of the research, it was observed that the students' knowledge levels on genetic literacy were insufficient; It was determined that there was a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of the medical students' attitude and understanding scale towards genetic literacy issues and genetic applications and the distribution of introductory information (p<0.05). When the research results are evaluated; It has been observed that insufficient genetic education reduces the genetic literacy rate; It has been concluded that genetic literacy can be increased by rearranging comprehensive education programs. Keywords: Genetic literacy, medical school students, narration, attitude