An analysis of the proposal for population based screening for hereditary hemochromatosis in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Senate is considering a bill which would require a screening test for iron overload diseases when such a test is medically necessary. The legislation is also authorized to establish, promote, and administer a statewide early detection program for the detection of hereditary hemochromatosis. Despite the challenges to a successful screening program which have been documented in the medical literature and the potential for genetic discrimination, the public health benefits justify this legislation as long as the necessary modifications and precautions are established.
Boston University School of Public Health, USA.
J M
JM
LeGraw
D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006432:Hemochromatosis / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D015273:Insurance Selection Bias; D007348:Insurance, Health; D007883:Legislation, Medical; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D008404:Massachusetts; D011287:Prejudice; D011640:Public Policy