Question

Which of the following is an ethical concern of gene sequencing? a. Gene sequencing is invasive, thus the potential health risks must be thoroughly explained. b. Gene sequencing impacts relatives, thus privacy concerns may be raised. c. Gene sequencing is very inaccurate, which increases anxiety related to findings. d. Gene sequencing can provide false-negative results, giving a false sense of security.

Short answer

Option B: Gene sequencing impacts relatives, thus privacy concerns may be raised.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

The exercise asks which option represents an ethical concern related to gene sequencing. Ethical concerns typically involve moral principles such as privacy, consent, accuracy, and potential impact on individuals and their families.

Evaluate Each Option

Assess whether each option presents an ethical concern. An ethical concern implies a deeper impact or consideration beyond just technical aspects.

Option A - Invasiveness and Health Risks

Option A states that gene sequencing is invasive and potential health risks must be explained. While important, this is more of a medical consent issue than an ethical concern about the sequencing itself.

Option B - Privacy Concerns

Option B mentions that gene sequencing impacts relatives, thus raising privacy concerns. This is indeed an ethical concern because it involves the privacy and confidentiality of genetic information affecting not just the individual but familial relationships.

Option C - Inaccuracy Leading to Anxiety

Option C refers to the inaccuracy of gene sequencing causing anxiety. While anxiety is significant, the inaccuracy itself is more of a technical challenge rather than an ethical concern.

Option D - False-Negative Results

Option D discusses false-negative results giving a false sense of security. Similar to Option C, this is related to technical accuracy rather than an ethical dilemma.

Conclusion

After analyzing all options, Option B is identified as the ethical concern among the given choices because it directly involves the privacy and potential broader social implications.

Key concepts

Genetic Privacy

Genetic privacy is a major concern when it comes to gene sequencing. This relates to who has access to a person's genetic information and how it is used. Unlike other types of personal data, genetic information is unique and can reveal much about a person's health, ancestry, and even predict potential future health issues. Privacy concerns arise because:

• Genetic data can be shared or sold without the individual's knowledge or consent.
• Insurance companies may use genetic information to deny coverage or increase premiums.
• Employers might discriminate based on genetic predispositions to certain illnesses.

Protecting genetic privacy involves strict regulations and ensuring that individuals have control over their genetic information.

Ethical Issues in Biotechnology

Biotechnology, including gene sequencing, brings numerous ethical issues. These involve the balance between scientific progress and moral values. Key ethical questions include:

• How far should we go in editing the human genome? This includes debates on gene editing for non-therapeutic reasons, like enhancing physical or cognitive abilities.
• What are the implications of creating genetically modified organisms (GMOs), especially regarding environmental impact and food safety?
• Should there be restrictions on who can access biotechnology, to prevent socio-economic disparities?

Addressing these issues requires public dialogue and setting up ethical frameworks and regulations to guide scientific advancements.

Consent and Confidentiality in Genetics

Consent and confidentiality are foundational in handling genetic information. Informed consent means that individuals must be fully informed about the purposes, risks, and benefits of gene sequencing before giving their agreement.

• Individuals should know how their data will be used and who will have access to it.
• Confidentiality ensures that genetic data is only accessible to authorized personnel and used solely for the intended purposes.
• There must be clear protocols for handling genetic information to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.

Respecting these principles builds trust and protects individuals from potential misuse of their genetic information.

Family Impact of Genetic Information

Genetic information has implications not just for the individual, but also for their family. Discovering genetic predispositions can affect familial relationships and dynamics.

• Relatives may need to be informed about genetic risks that could impact their health.
• Family members might face ethical dilemmas about whether to undergo genetic testing themselves.
• There can be emotional and psychological effects on family members learning about potential genetic issues.

Families need support and counseling to navigate these impacts and to make informed decisions about their genetic futures.