A principle-based approach to ethical issues in predictive genetic testing for breast cancer

Genetic breast cancer susceptibility testing presents ethical challenges for healthcare providers and their patients. The familial aspects of genetic information, recognition of DNA as a shared history and present common thread for all people and widespread misunderstandings of genetic tests all contribute to these challenges. In this article an ethical framework internationally developed as a charter for medical professionalism is used to guide approaches to ethical dilemmas of breast cancer genetic testing. Specifically, three ethical principles are explored as they relate to testing: primacy of patient, patient autonomy, and social justice. Approaching breast cancer genetic testing from this framework could help to ensure thoughtful and ethical practices in this rapidly evolving field.