At-risk for cancer: genetic discrimination in the workplace.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the complexity of issues related to genetic discrimination in the workplace against individuals identified as at risk for cancer.


METHODS
Professional literature; local and national laws.


RESULTS
A brief historical perspective on genetic discrimination is provided. Employment discrimination, insurance, job retention, and hiring issues facing cancer survivors and individuals genetically identified as at risk for cancer are discussed. State and federal initiatives that deal with these issues are examined, and strategies are proposed to prevent issues relating to genetic discrimination.


CONCLUSIONS
Genetic discrimination, in all of its forms, is likely to emerge as a major challenge in the next century.


CONCLUSIONS
Oncology nurses must recognize new opportunities, assume new roles, and ready themselves for the challenges associated with this new kind of oncology nursing practice and the reality of genetic testing and disclosure.
Jacobs
L A
LA
Oncology Advanced Practice Nurse Program, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, USA.
D002961:Civil Rights; D004651:Employment / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D011287:Prejudice; D011640:Public Policy; D014481:United States