Genetic Testing : Scientific Background & Nondiscrimination Legislation

Collectively, genetic diseases and common diseases with a genetic component pose a significant public health burden. With completion of the human genome sequence, scientists will now focus on understanding the clinical implications of the sequence information. Clinical genetic tests are becoming available at a rapid rate. Testing is regulated by the federal government and tests are beginning to be included in health insurance benefits packages. Issues surrounding genetic testing and non-discrimination addressed in this book include: What is health information and how is it currently used by health insurers and employers?; What is genetic information?; Is genetic information different from other health information?; What are the implications of having genetic information: for the individual undergoing testing? for his/her family? for society?; What evidence exists to suggest that discrimination is a problem?; Will the proposed legislation have been sufficient to protect "genetic information" and "genetic tests" that are of concern?; How does the proposed legislation compare with existing laws and regulations governing discrimination?