In June 2000 it was announced that a "rough copy" of the complete DNA code of every human gene had been completed. Given that many diseases have a genetic basis, this information has great medical significance. As our knowledge of the intricate makeup and complexity of the human person has developed so too has genetic testing, allowing the diagnosis - and even prediction - of health problems in individuals and their families. As with all technologies, however, developments in the area of genetic testing have the potential for both benefit and harm.
The many benefits of genetic testing some already being used - include advance warning of possible disorders, relieving of uncertainty with respect to a person's future, opportunities for early diagnosis of a disease and the chance to develop more effective ways of dealing with these diseases. The risks and limitations of genetic testing include the possible negative psychological consequences when people receive unwelcome news, the straining of family relationships, social and economic discrimination, as well as other legal and cultural risks.
Genetic testing is an obvious advance, but it also gives rise to ethical issues. Thus, the idea that genetic testing will enable prospective parents to make more informed choices about the "viability" of a pregnancy is unacceptable to those who believe that the developing foetus is already a human being with a right to life. Furthermore, from a Catholic perspective, that people should decide that some things make a life worthwhile and other things do not can lead people to think of and assess human life more and more in terms of quality and functionality rather than innate dignity. Among other things, this could well lead to the devaluing of those with genetic disorders and disabilities, and call into question the right to life of children who may potentially have disabilities.
The ethical implications of genetic testing are far reaching for individuals, for their families and for society as a whole. Families have genes in common. Seemingly "individual" and "personal" health information arising from the use of genetic testing can also have life-changing implications for family (children, siblings, parents). It can raise questions for colleagues, employers and others - both positively and negatively. The existence of such information raises complex questions relating to confidentiality of health information, patient-health professional relationship, responsibility towards others, patient-family dynamics, rights of children versus rights of parents, and insurance and job prospects.
Complexity is inherent in the development and use of genetic testing. In a society that enjoys "one-liner" slogans and which often receives over simplistic and one dimensional presentations of complex debates, genetic testing presents some challenging ethical and human rights issues.
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, Disability and a Catholic Ethic of Caring