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Future directions in genetic counseling: practical and ethical considerations
Kennedy Institute of Ethics Journal
|October 20, 2001
Summary
Predictive genetic testing is advancing rapidly, but intervention strategies are still developing. Genetic counselors must adapt ethical practices to guide patients through increasing genetic test availability for both rare and common diseases.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Bioethics
- Genetic Counseling
Background:
- Accelerated discovery of gene mutations increases disease risk prediction.
- Development of predictive genetic tests enhances risk assessment accuracy.
- Current intervention and prevention strategies for genetic diseases are largely unproved.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the challenges posed to genetic counseling practice by the expansion of genetic testing.
- To propose modifications to ethical principles guiding genetic counseling.
- To ensure genetic counselors lead in delivering ethical genetic services.
Main Methods:
- Review of current ethical principles in genetic counseling.
- Analysis of the impact of widespread genetic testing on practice.
- Development of recommendations for future ethical genetic services.
Main Results:
- Predictive genetic testing is becoming more accurate but lacks proven interventions.
- Genetic testing will expand to cover common diseases, increasing demand.
- Existing ethical principles may require modification to meet evolving client and societal needs.
Conclusions:
- Genetic counseling practice faces significant challenges due to the proliferation of genetic testing.
- Adaptation of ethical principles is necessary to support clients and society.
- Proactive recommendations are offered for genetic counselors to maintain a leading role in ethical genetic service delivery.