The sequencing of the human genome has revolutionized how we view the genetic risk factor of disease- Discuss

In the past doctors relied on family history as a type of diagnostic test. However, that family history was largely self-reported. With the growth of technology to analyze the human genome, doctors can analyze a person’s DNA to determine certain risk factors for disease. Do you view as a positive thing or more as an invasion of privacy? Who should have access to this information? What concerns would you have concerns about providing access to this information?

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The sequencing of the human genome has revolutionized how we view the genetic risk factor of disease. Before the advent of human genome sequencing technology, a person’s family history was the primary source of disease risk factors. Although this was not the ideal source of information, it allowed physicians to gain specific insight into each patient. Using a patient’s family history as a type of diagnostic test has many flaws. First, the data is not always or entirely accurate; this is due to the source of the data is based on the family’s collective memory. Misdiagnosis, faulty memory, and inaccurate information are some of the reasons why information gathered from family history are not as desirable in today’s modern society. Alternatively, there are far more significant sources to collect this information. Genetic testing of a person’s DNA is the answer.

Since the completion of the human genome project was completed in 2003, preventative healthcare has never been the same. Determining genetic risk factors for a disease is no longer a guessing game. “Early diagnosis of a disease can significantly increase the chance of successful treatment, and genomics can detect a disease long before symptoms present themselves.” (Heggie, 2019). Furthermore, this technology has been widely accepted in the medical industry and now can be considered a standard of care for disease prevention and early detection. (Heggie, 2019). Some critics believe that divulging this type of sensitive information can potentially cause more harm than good. “As DNA testing gallops ahead, doctors face wrenching questions about legal risks, protecting patients’ privacy, and the quality of the genetic information they’re providing – and they need help.” (Couzin-Frankel, 2019). Although this is a valid concern, I find the rewards far outweigh the risk.

In conclusion, I do not consider this technology an invasion of privacy because the participant must consent by submitting a specimen. It is imperative to understand that when a person chooses to go through a direct to consumer company such as 23&Me or Ancestry DNA, their data is not protected in the same manner it is in a medical office setting. I believe the only individuals who should have access to this information are professionals who have been trained to interpret the data, such as physicians and genetic counselors.

Reference:

Couzin-Frankel, J. (2019). Medical DNA Sequencing leads to lawsuits and legal questions. Science Magazine. Retrieved from https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2019/04/medical-dna-sequencing-leads-lawsuits-and-legal-questions (Links to an external site.)

Heggie, J. (2019). Genomics: a revolution in health care. National Geographic. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/2019/02/partner-content-genomics-health-care/#targetText=Fast%2C%20large%2Dscale%2C%20low,long%20before%20symptoms%20present%20themselves.