Martinez et al. 8 identify a very limited number of genetic studies of AUD that include Latino participants. The authors also describe Latinos in the U.S. as diverse, including in their country of origin and degree of genetic admixture. The authors start with a literature review regarding the participation of African Americans and other underrepresented racial/ethnic groups in genetic research, to serve as a framework for understanding relevant issues for Latinos. This framework is applied to content from two focus groups with Mexican American men and women about participating in alcohol studies that involve the collection of biological samples like saliva and blood. The thematic analysis shows conflicting concerns regarding the potential misuse of findings and distrust in genetic testing results versus the importance of including Latinos in genetic research for alcoholism because of the significance of alcohol problems in their local communities. Some differences between men and women are noted. The results of the focus groups identify several questions and suggestions to be considered when planning for the recruitment and retention of Latinos that should improve the quality of research, genetic and otherwise, with this population.
