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Ethical Issues In Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act

1831 Words8 Pages

Innovative technology has led to the creation of genetic screening, which can lead to both the prevention of possible diseases but also the spread of sensitive and volatile medical knowledge. Following the completion of the Human Genome Project, which mapped out the entire genome, predictive genetic screening exploded as a “rapidly emerging field” (Fulda) in the medical universe, according to a group dedicated to the education and debate of health choices called the Institute of Medical Ethics. With complete knowledge of each piece of DNA and its function, scientists could analyze genetic material to a greater extent and predict how the structure could affect the recipient of the test. These exams use samples from a person’s body and test …show more content…

According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, a government-run organization which controls innovations within genetic science, some groups believe that just the predisposition to certain genetic diseases can influence the availability of a certain insurance or whether someone is hired based on their genetic material (“Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act”). The information is potent as the discrimination could be passed on to the direct family members that have a similar genetic makeup (“Ethical Issues in Genetic Testing”). These concerns stem from either outdated or misinformed sources, as the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 explicitly “protects Americans from being treated unfairly because of differences in their DNA that may affect their health” (“Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act”). People can stay free of worry if they are aware of their protection from discrimination given to them by the law. Although genetic screening can lead to dangerous social situations, the refuge guaranteed to them by the United States government keeps genetic information safe when involving health insurance or job …show more content…

Very few people, even at-risk individuals, believe they did not want to know their disposition to hereditary hemochromatosis after receiving their results (Elsass). The people from the research show how assured knowledge of their condition remains superior to a lack of education about their personal situation. Although people believe that ignorance is bliss, research exhibits that well-informed individuals experience improved psychological effects from the knowledge of their genetic condition. If genetic tests provide solace to their subjects, why should these predictive measures and ensuing results be

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