Master's Seminar
Zeynep YAY, who is pursuing her master's degree under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arzu ÜNAL, a faculty member of our department, presented her seminar titled "Perception of GMOs and Improving Health Literacy in Elderly Individuals: Digital and Biotechnological Approaches."
Public perceptions of genetically modified organisms are often based not on scientific data but on cultural, psychological, and emotional approaches. These perceptions influence not only individuals' food choices but also their health behaviors, environmental awareness, and economic decisions. Misconceptions about GMOs pose a significant obstacle to protecting public health and implementing sustainable agricultural policies. Therefore, correcting these perceptions is critical not only for individual well-being but also for societal welfare.
This study aims to reveal the level of perception of GMOs among elderly individuals, whether this perception affects their quality of life from a psycho-social perspective, and how it relates to health literacy. Although there is no GMO production in Turkey, the misinformation and perceptions that have formed on this issue pose a potential risk factor, especially for the elderly segment of society. Therefore, within the scope of this study, both the current level of perception will be determined and digital and biotechnological-based awareness campaigns will be conducted to improve this perception. This approach aims to contribute to older adults leading healthier, more informed, and higher-quality lives.
