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Life insurance: genomic stratification and risk classification
Yann Joly1, Hilary Burton2, Bartha Maria Knoppers1
1Center of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
Advancements in genomic technologies complicate genetic discrimination discussions for life insurance. Experts recommend actions to address concerns regarding genomic data use in underwriting.
Area of Science:
- Genomics and Bioinformatics
- Insurance Law and Ethics
- Genetic Risk Prediction
Background:
- The increasing accessibility of genomic tools like next-generation sequencing and genome-wide association studies has intensified the debate on genetic discrimination in life insurance.
- A multidisciplinary group of international experts convened to review the complex legal, social, and ethical issues surrounding the use of genomic information in life insurance underwriting.
Discussion:
- Experts addressed whether recent genomic developments alter the genetics and life insurance debate.
- The relevance of genomic results from research contexts for life insurance underwriting was examined.
- The applicability of genomic predictive risk assessment and stratification models in life insurance underwriting was discussed.
Key Insights:
- Genomic advancements necessitate a re-evaluation of current practices and potential future scenarios in life insurance.
- The ethical implications of using predictive genetic information for underwriting require careful consideration.
- Distinguishing between research and clinical/underwriting contexts for genomic data is crucial.
Outlook:
- The Expert Group identified key questions regarding the impact of genomics on life insurance underwriting.
- Specific action items were recommended for stakeholders to mitigate concerns over genomic data use.
- Further dialogue is needed to establish responsible frameworks for genomic information in the insurance sector.
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