Aggregated News
The age of genomic medicine is dawning. Whole-genome sequencing is starting to transform the diagnosis of rare inherited diseases, and within a few decades it could be a routine part of medical care (see "Your genomic future: Personalised medicine is here ").
But an ethical row has broken out on this new frontier. In June, the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics published guidelines arguing that people having their genome sequenced should be informed if the results show defects in any of 56 genes linked to 24 serious diseases (Genetics in Medicine, vol 15, p 565).
The idea is to flag up known risks that could be mitigated – although in some cases that could require drastic action. The list includes mutations in the BRCA1 gene that earlier this year prompted movie star Angelina Jolie to have a double mastectomy to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer.
The intentions are laudable, but routine disclosure may not always be welcome. Imagine that you are seeking the cause of a mysterious condition that has brought your...
But an ethical row has broken out on this new frontier. In June, the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics published guidelines arguing that people having their genome sequenced should be informed if the results show defects in any of 56 genes linked to 24 serious diseases (Genetics in Medicine, vol 15, p 565).
The idea is to flag up known risks that could be mitigated – although in some cases that could require drastic action. The list includes mutations in the BRCA1 gene that earlier this year prompted movie star Angelina Jolie to have a double mastectomy to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer.
The intentions are laudable, but routine disclosure may not always be welcome. Imagine that you are seeking the cause of a mysterious condition that has brought your...