The Pros And Cons Of Genetic Testing

Medicine and technology are two things that will never cease to be in demand, because of this medicine and technology will continue advance. Research and testing on medicine has already progressed an incredible amount, and there are even more amazing things to come. A few examples the extraordinary things medicine might be capable of include the current research being done with stem cells, genetics, and genomics. Nevertheless, many of the remarkable medicinal and technological advances have yet to be implemented in hospitals throughout the world, due to various practical and ethical reasonings. While these reasonings are understandable, the advantages may outweigh the disadvantages. Because of the increase in medical research and testing,

Currently the advantages of genetic testing include its ability determine carrier status- which is the risk that a gene mutation is passed on to a child -the potential to predict disease development, the capability to foresee some conditions in utero, and an array of other capabilities vital to disease and condition prediction (Huston 1). In the future genetics and genomics will not only be able to cure people after they become sick but prevent illness altogether. Having genetic data, such as genotyping, can even lead to better, more comprehensive care. Yet, due to ethical predicaments wide use of genetic data may be delayed. Genomics and genetic testing and researching will still continue to improve, although its use in the medical field is questionable due to the concern of emotional consequences and the need to protect personal

This research remains extremely controversial and misunderstood, but incredibly useful at the same time. Stem cells can be reprogrammed into a variety of cell types, making the amount of organs and body parts available for growth limitless. “Researchers are already beginning to grow individual tissues, tendons, and cartilages from stem cells and several years ago, a kidney-like organ was grown from scratch in the lab and used successfully in animals. . .” (Huston 1). Currently donors are required for organ transplant, but through the use of stem cells organs in need can be grown using the patient's own tissues. Using organs grown from the patient’s tissues would even solve the ever present issue of rejection, possibly eliminating or reducing the need for anti-rejection drugs after transplant surgery. Organs are not the only thing stem cells can replace or repair, teeth and joint treatment may change drastically as well, “stem cells will be used to generate replacement cartilage tissue to repair damaged joints. . .” (Huston 1). Having stem cell technology readily available could change the lives of those suffering with arthritis and other painful joint issues, if this research is used in real, conventional medical practices. Replacement teeth can be grown in two months, instead of dentures being manufactured, and in the future patients may be able to