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Preventing discrimination based on psychiatric risk biomarkers
Cody Brannan1,2, Alexandra L Foulkes1,3, Gabriel Lázaro-Muñoz1
1Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
Summary
Psychiatric risk biomarkers (PRBs) show promise for mental health care, but could worsen stigma. New laws are needed to protect individuals from discrimination based on these biological markers.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Recent studies identify genomic and nongenomic psychiatric risk biomarkers (PRBs).
- PRBs offer potential for improved psychiatric care and prevention.
- Biological explanations for psychiatric disorders can exacerbate stigma and discrimination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the dual potential of PRBs in advancing psychiatric care while mitigating risks of increased stigma and discrimination.
- To highlight the need for comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation for both genomic and nongenomic PRBs.
Main Methods:
- Review of current research on PRBs, including genomic variants, blood analytes, and gray matter volume.
- Analysis of existing legal frameworks for genomic discrimination.
- Assessment of the predictive value and potential societal impact of PRBs.
Main Results:
- PRBs, including nongenomic ones, have significant predictive value for psychiatric disorders.
- Current anti-discrimination laws primarily cover genomic PRBs, leaving nongenomic PRBs unprotected.
- PRB-based stigma could deter individuals from utilizing potentially beneficial diagnostic tools.
Conclusions:
- Expanding anti-discrimination legislation to include all PRBs is crucial.
- Educational campaigns addressing mental health and PRB stigma are necessary.
- Proactive measures are needed to ensure PRB technologies benefit society without increasing discrimination.
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