(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Many adults in the United States believe gay and lesbian persons are unable to modify their preference, according to a poll by Opinion Research Corporation released by CNN. 56 per cent of respondents think homosexuals cannot change their sexual orientation.

In addition, 42 per cent of respondents think homosexuality occurs due to upbringing and environment, while 39 per cent believe it is something a person is born with.

On May 24, U.S. president George W. Bush nominated James Holsinger to the position of U.S. surgeon general, saying, "As America's chief health educator, he will be charged with providing the best scientific information available on how Americans can make smart choices that improve their health and reduce their risk of illness and injury."

Human Rights Campaign president Joe Solmonese expressed disappointment with Holsinger's nomination, saying, "His writings suggest a scientific view rooted in anti-gay beliefs that are incompatible with the job of serving the medical health of all Americans. It is essential that America's top doctor value sound science over anti-gay ideology."

Polling Data

Can homosexuals change their sexual orientation if they choose to do so?

Homosexuality is:

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