Participation in alcohol genetics research necessarily requires the collection of biological samples with which to obtain genomic information and conduct subsequent analyses. There is a relatively small but expanding body of literature addressing the participation of racial/ethnic minorities in any type of health research collecting biological samples; however, Latino representation remains limited. One such study conducted among Latinos suggest their under-representation in research requiring biological samples may be because Latinos prioritize family obligations over personal choices when making decisions to participate in research requiring blood tests such as genetic testing [7]. In this study, family loyalty [vs. personal health care needs] was seen as integral to Latino culture, particularly for women adopting traditional female roles. Another reason may be the challenges to subject recruitment because of a mistrust of biomedical research and stigma associated with such research [8]. There may also be institutional-level barriers or fewer opportunities to participate in research if subject recruitment is not conducted by institutions that serve Latino communities [9].
