Genetic discrimination is the differential treatment of individuals based on their genetic information, which can affect insurance, employment, and other decisions. The use of genetic information in decision-making is debated, with some arguing it is a valid indicator of risk, while others fear it may discourage people from seeking tests that could help their health.
Genetic discrimination refers to treating a person differently based on genetic information. It is often discussed in reference to insurance or employment, as genetic information could be used to figure out whether an individual will develop or is at higher risk for an inherited disorder. If a person chooses to have a genetic test, the result is recorded in their medical record. In cases where third parties have access to the records, the information can be used in any number of decisions, such as whether to insure the person, dispute one’s work-related compensation claims, or how much to set insurance premiums . There is debate as to whether this information falls into a different category from other medical information, resulting in genetic unfair discrimination.
For example, a woman with a family history of breast cancer might choose to be tested for a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. If the results show that you carry the mutation, you have a much higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. If she then applies for a life insurance policy, the insurer may choose, based on the test results, to claim a higher rate for her policy than someone in similar circumstances who did not choose to have the test. The insurer may even choose not to carry it at all.
It is unclear what the problem with genetic discrimination is, as laws vary from country to country. Many studies on the subject have relied heavily on the subjective statements of people who believe they have been unfairly discriminated against. Additionally, some believe that genetic information is a valid indicator of risk and should be disclosed to interested parties such as employers or insurers.
Among medical ethicists, however, the concern is that fear of genetic discrimination will keep people from seeking tests that could hold the key to their future health. Through post-test genetic counseling, doctors can offer patients some instruction on how to mitigate risk, early warning signs to look for, and the ability to ask questions about related issues, such as whether to have children who may inherit the same genetic problem . There is also concern that people might be forced to undergo genetic testing in certain cases, whether they want to know their likelihood of developing certain diseases or not.
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