Ethnicity, Geographical Region and Ancestry as Population Level Descriptors for Genomics Studies in Africa: Public Engagement is Needed

In designing and reporting population genetic studies, researchers use population descriptors such as race, ethnicity, geographical location, and ancestry/ biogeographical ancestry as analytical variables. These population level descriptor(s) are complex social constructs and there are ongoing conversations concerning their use in population genomics. As academics debate and seek consensus regarding the population level descriptors that can be best used to account for genetic variation both within and between population groups, they must reflect on whether these descriptors are socially and culturally acceptable for studying communities. This would require science outreach activities to consult with different stakeholders regarding what each population descriptor means to them. These outreach activities should engage the public in understanding how and why each descriptor is used for certain studies. This is particularly the case in situations in which 1) a descriptor may have pejorative undertones due to its historical background or 2) the study pertains to a disease that is stigmatized, so that the use of a particular descriptor may further perpetuate stigma and/or discrimination.