How Does Genetic Testing Affect Our Life

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Would you change your life after finding out you are at risk for something. I believe that genetic testing is not needed because it can ruin relationships, cause bias from employers and insurancers, and lastly, it can impact the way that you live your life. Sometimes it can be needed information, but it can greatly change your everyday life. First, knowing your genetic code can ruin relationships. This can be seen when twin siblings Samantha Schilit and Arielle Schilit Nitenson had trouble after Schilit got genetic testing. Schilit found out that there might be troubles for her unborn daughter. Nitenson wanted the doctor to know, but they both knew that their privacy could be invaded. Another example of this could be when Angelina Jolie …show more content…

Dr. Leonard, chair of pathology and laboratory medicine at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and UVM Medical Center in Burlington, Vt., stated that “one concern people have is ‘learning about something they just don’t want to know about.’” Also, there has been a 2% error margin that has led to uncomfortable situations. Lastly, if parents know their child is at a large risk for a disease, could they restrict them? If a child has an increased chance for skin cancer, will the parents never let them go to the beach? These are some questions that can affect the decision to get your genetic code. On the other hand, genetic testing can be a lifesaving aid for those with a severe ailment. For example, say that your family has a risk for colon cancer. If you get testing, you will know if you are at risk. If so, you will know your treatment paths that you could take. Doctors like Dr. Leonard state that they would like to have every person get genetic testing so that ailments like cancer could be caught before they even begin. In conclusion, genetic testing is not needed because of the many consequences. Maybe it soon will be needed, but in the end, that could cause more problems for individuals than solving