Genetics Conference Presentation Dr Ghazala Mir and Dr Katie Spicer

Religion and ‘risk factors’• Supportive: eg Muslim chaplains/religious authorities supportingbreastfeeding advice; mosques disseminating health promotionmaterials.• Supporting women/conflicting with professionals: Somereligious authorities perceived to be ‘in denial’ about geneticexplanations for infant mortality. Muslim staff seen as ‘dissuading’post mortems considered ‘very important indeed’ by doctors repotential for informing about future pregnancies. Religiousteachings on terminations• Stereotypes/prejudicial views of Islam may be promotedamongst professional actors – influenced by ethnic and socialclass as well as religious differences. Professional relationshipwith individual women may be influenced by their perception ofwomen’s social identity before interaction has even taken place