Ethics Case Study 1 Genetic information is found in each part of our cell. Chromosomes contain many genes, a section of DNA. These genes have a coding system using adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine, which are strung together in a long chain to create a unique DNA sequence. Different genes control the development of special characteristics of an organism. With genetic testing, a person can see their specific genetic code. By looking at the specific sequence of genes or chromosomes, certain genetic or chromosomal conditions can be identified or ruled out. For example, looking at genetic code can show if you have the genetic makeup to eventually develop Alzheimer’s. This does not mean you are going to develop Alzheimer’s, it just means …show more content…
On the positive side, you can see what types of diseases may run in your family. If you know you have the genetic code for certain cardiac diseases, you could try to adding more heart health dieting and exercising methods to your daily life. It may help you to prevent the disease from activating. However, ignorance can be bliss. If you find that you have the genetic code for a highly fatal or a certain mental illness, you may dread this, even though there is no guarantee that you’ll get this disease. People might not necessarily understand that, and see identifying this disease as a “death wish.” While doctors could use genetic code to make it easier when diagnosing a patient, there could be more misdiagnoses, leading to mistreatment. Some doctors may only look at diseases listed in your genetic code and treat you for those illnesses, even though the answer might not be in your genetic …show more content…
It is mandatory that a sample of newborns blood is taken, but it is often used to determine blood type or to see how much oxygen is in the blood, not necessarily for genetic testing. DNA testing to determine parentage is offered when a baby is first born, but it is the parent’s choice if they want to go through with it or not. I don’t think it should be mandatory for newborns or before birth. Some families don’t want to know the results of genetic testing. The major issue discussed in the book “Assessing Genetic Risks: Implications for Health and Social Policy” is the privacy umbrella with confidentiality. We have the right to our own bodies and the information it contains. Legally, doctors need to receive consent from a patient if they want to remove blood or tissue. If mandatory tests are expected, then it is breaking this right to our own bodies. I think for those that want the testing, labs should look for all diseases, not just those that are curable. Along with having the right to keep our body private, we also deserve the right to get all information when asked for