Genetic testing began as early as the 1960’s and was used primarily for the testing of a rare disease that could be found while a baby was still in utero. In the 1990’s doctors were then able to test for more common diseases such as breast and colon cancer. While it is an individual’s choice whether they get tested or not, the positives undeniably outweigh the negatives. While I believe that genetic testing is a right for anyone who wants to do it, it cannot change the outcome of the information received.
When examining the ethics to consider for genetic testing, one must consider the outcome from this new information. In the case of Kate Fitzgerald, genetic testing would not have had an effect on her disease. Leukemia is a type of cancer that cannot be prevented unlike breast cancer, which can be avoided by a double mastectomy. The idea of genetic testing, when faced with an incurable disease, would fall
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Genetic testing can reveal information that a person may over analyze to the point where they are living in fear. Deontology states that one must consider the consequences when making a decision. Genetic testing is not completely accurate and it can only tell a person if they are a carrier of a gene mutation that may put them at a higher risk for developing that disease. While a negative result can provide peace of mind, a positive test can have a huge emotional impact on a person.
While there are disadvantages of genetic testing, a big advantage of genetic testing is the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA). GINA protects the results of those who have undergone genetic testing. GINA corresponds with the ethics of justice. Justice states that there should be equal access and equality for all. The law prohibits the discrimination of those who have DNA differences that may affect their health. GINA protects the justice of those who wish to assess their genes from bias at jobs or when using