2011 National DNA Day Online Chatroom Transcript

This is just one question from an archive of the National DNA Day Moderated Chat held in April 2011. The NHGRI Director and many genomics experts from across NHGRI took questions from students, teachers and the general public on topics ranging from basic genomic research, to the genetic basis of disease, to ethical questions about genetic privacy.

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Can we still use term "mental retardation" or should we now use "intellectual disability"?
     Lauren Doyle, M.S.: I am currently split between prenatal (clinical and research), neurology and cancer clinics, so I see a broad base of patients on a weekly basis. In addition, I have completed a number of lectures and in-classroom activities about basic genetics to local schools and for other health professionals. Great question. "Mental retardation" is still considered a medical diagnosis for an individual with an IQ <70. Many individuals in the non-medical community prefer the term "intellectual disability" be applied to public use, rules, regulations and policy terminology. The most important thing is to remember to use people-first language. An "individual with mental retardation" is more appropriate than a "mentally retarded individual." A disability is something a person has, it does not define the individual.
Vilnius University (Higher Education student)

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