The ethical, legal and psychosocial challenges of genetic testing: implications for primary medical care.
Recent advances in genetic information and technology have led to an explosion in molecular testing for mutations that cause human disease. Test results are likely to improve medical management and/or help individuals make important life and reproductive decisions. Unlike other laboratory testing, unique complexities and challenging psychosocial, legal and financial ramifications often accompany genetic tests. Some of the challenges associated with molecular testing and examples illustrating potential ethical, psychosocial and legal complexities are presented here.
Waldman
Laura
L
Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, USA.
D000328:Adult; D002353:Carrier State / Q000175:diagnosis; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000191:economics / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000941:ethics*; D011584:Psychology