Related Experiment Videos
Presymptomatic and predisposition genetic testing: ethical and social considerations
C M Bove1, S T Fry, D J MacDonald
1Neurology Department, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, USA.
Seminars in Oncology Nursing
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Genetic testing for asymptomatic individuals can identify predispositions to adult-onset disorders. However, testing without interventions raises ethical concerns, especially for children and prenatal cases, necessitating careful consideration of privacy and emotional impact.
Area of Science:
- Medical Genetics
- Bioethics
- Social Science
Background:
- New genetic tests offer predictive information for asymptomatic individuals.
- Ethical and social implications of genetic testing require careful examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review ethical and social concerns associated with genetic testing in asymptomatic individuals.
- To highlight the importance of informed consent and the nurse's role in advocacy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of articles, research studies, and relevant legislation.
- Synthesis of findings on genetic testing, ethical considerations, and societal impact.
Main Results:
- Genetic predisposition and presymptomatic testing are feasible across ages for known mutations in adult-onset disorders.
- Testing is controversial when effective interventions are lacking, particularly in prenatal settings and for children.
- Potential issues include privacy, discrimination, stigmatization, and emotional distress.
Conclusions:
- Informed consent is crucial before genetic testing.
- Awareness of testing implications empowers nurses in their advocacy role.
- Further research is needed on the impact of presymptomatic testing on families and the development of supportive interventions.
Keywords:
Genetics and Reproduction