Understanding science communication in human genetics using text mining

Abstract

We conducted the first systematic text mining review of online media coverage of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and analyzed trends in media coverage, readability, themes, and mentions of ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI). Over 5,000 online news articles published from 2005 to 2018 all over the world were included in analyses. Our results show that while some GWAS attract a great deal of online interest many are not reported on, and that those that are covered are described in language too complex to be understood by the general public. Ethical issues are largely unaddressed, while suggestions for translation are increasing over time. Our review identifies areas that need to improve to increase the effectiveness and accuracy of the communication of genetic research findings in online media. We have also developed a website where all results described below can be explored interactively: https://jjmorosoli.shinyapps.io/newas/ .