Exam 3

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Exam 3

Genetic testing is a type of a medical test that not only identifies changes and variations in chromosomes but in genes or proteins as well (Andrews). Genetic testing facilitates in confirming or ruling out any specific genetic disorder while also determining an individual's chances of passing or developing any genetic disorder.

The ethical and legal issues surrounding the social issue of genetic and genomic testing have been a topic of debate for ages. Also, the topic is under special scrutiny for multiple reasons. According to the research conducted by the author Jeffrey along with his fellow researchers regarding ethical and moral, are the implications associated with genetic testing (Botkin 7). According to the author, for various hereditary conditions, genetic testing can provide predictive information about any person's future health status (Botkin 7). This information can have a great impact on the psychological well-being of an individual, along with an increase in concerns regarding stigma and discrimination associated with the particular genetic disease.

While discussing legal issues associated with genetic testing, genetic information can be misused and therefore has the potential of causing harm to an individual. When genetic testing is conducted solely for clinical purposes, and there is a chance that this information can be used for research as well (Clayton 563). So according to the legal rights of patients, researchers must take consent from the patients. In a multi-cultural and even multi-religious society, healthcare professionals must be sensitive to not only the religious but cultural and ethical perspectives of an individual while considering genetic testing. In genetic testing, informed consent is the core principle that must be followed; however, specifically discussing children, they lack the ability of decision making. Therefore, the genetic testing decision must be taken according to the parents' consent.

In many cases, it has been observed that test results may be troubling for individuals receiving a diagnosis of a genetic disorder or carrier status. This is because it raises a fundamental question regarding medical vulnerabilities along with social image and identity (Scriver 814). Thus, in these particular cases, counselors must take action and educate people so that they do not stigmatize any genetic disorder.

Works Cited

Andrews, Lori B., et al. Assessing genetic risks: Implications for health and social policy. Executive summary. No. DOE/ER/61115-T1. Institute of Medicine, Committee on Assessing Genetic Risks, Washington, DC (United States), 1994.

Botkin, Jeffrey R., et al. "Points to consider: ethical, legal, and psychosocial implications of genetic testing in children and adolescents." The American Journal of Human Genetics 97.1 (2015): 6-21.

Clayton, Ellen Wright. "Ethical, legal, and social implications of genomic medicine." New England Journal of Medicine 349.6 (2003): 562-569.

Scriver, Charles R. "Assessing Genetic Risks: Implications for Health and Social Policy." American journal of human genetics 56.3 (1995): 814.