The Genetic Revolution: Ethical Implications for the 21st Century

Abstract

The following chapter defines the practice of DNA analysis and identifies the ethical considerations of human genetic testing in the workplace and technological issues. The topics presented include: the history of DNA testing, future genetic test development inclusive of, large scale, three-dimensional computational technology for analyzing, storing and presenting complex relationships between gene products and clinical outcomes, and currently enacted legislation pertaining to genetic information. Also examined are the ethical concerns pursuant to human genetic testing and information technology security. A survey was conducted to determine the view and level of knowledge among business professionals in the workplace on the ethical considerations of genetic testing. Questions included business ethics, confidentiality issues and the enactment of state and federal legislation for genetic testing. The results of the survey indicate concern within the business community for ethical issues concerning confidentiality of genetic test results and a strong desire for passage of state and federal legislation to avoid the misuse of genetic information. Finally, conclusions are determined based upon the data and the direction for future study is defined.