Item Details

abstract

After the success of the Human Genome Project, genetic sequencing technology has improved exponentially. Consumers can now have parts of their genome sequenced for under $100. Genetic sequencing in this direct-to-consumer (DTC) setting comes with many ethical problems that, despite being brought to national attention almost ten years ago, still have not been addressed. Significant regulation is needed in DTC genetic sequencing. As genetic sequencing becomes more widely available, Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) will move into the clinical space, providing massive amounts of information about patients. Many have suggested using this technology in the standard screening of healthy populations. This brings ethical dilemmas as well, particularly when considering the use of WGS in fetuses, infants, and children. While WGS may be acceptable for use in adults if adequate safeguards are put into place, parents have a moral duty, based on the child’s right to future autonomy and right not to know genetic information, not to permit WGS to be performed on their children.

subject

direct-to-consumer genetic testing

ethics

genetic screening

genetic testing

newborn screening

whole genome sequencing

contributor

Sells, Samantha E. (author)

King, Nancy (committee chair)

Hall, Mark (committee member)

Coughlin, Christine (committee member)

date

2018-05-24T08:35:46Z (accessioned)

2018-05-24T08:35:46Z (available)

2018 (issued)

degree

Bioethics (discipline)

identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/10339/90687 (uri)

language

en (iso)

publisher

Wake Forest University

title

Genetic Sequencing in Healthy Populations

type

Thesis