The human genetic structure can now be sequenced and mapped in its entirety, a significant advance in science and human understanding. The cost of an analysis has plummeted during the past two decades, and it is now possible to request this information online. The details provided reveal the presence of specific characteristics, as well as inherited disease potential. Genomics companies are not only informative, but also controversial.
The basis of current methods of analysis was established during the Human Genome Project nearly thirty years ago. A scientific race to become the first to create a landmark human genetic map helped speed progress in the field. Full or partial sequencing currently gives individuals additional insight into inherited physical and personality traits, and also points out a predisposition to certain types of cancer.
A personal analysis cannot answer every question sparked by the information contained in those genes, but does provide more genetic information than has ever been available previously. For many people, that analysis provides a window into their own personality and physical health, and creates greater understanding of the influences that inheritance exerts. While useful, this information may have unintended consequences.
The main advantage of an analysis is medical. Although most people have a generalized idea regarding the physical issues faced by parents or grandparents, knowing whether or not those propensities have been passed on can make predicting and treating certain illnesses easier and more effective. As more people participate, databases can be created that create a baseline for insight.
That data is only a printout, but has the potential to be life-changing. When a map reveals the strong chance of developing a particular illness, patients have the opportunity to become more proactive in their own preventive health regimen. Detailing those possibilities helps doctors better manage patient medications, and to screen for problems more frequently. This approach makes personalized care both possible and practical.
In addition to the medical advantages, there are social benefits that become more obvious to people now able to widely share their own experiences. Being able to contact others who face similar issues provides a better basis of support for those struggling to cope with illness. While this can be a real advantage, some scientists worry that the information will be used to stigmatize or profile people.
Even as the technology advances, personal gene sequencing has spotlighted privacy issues. The ideal solution would be to protect significant databases from outside scrutiny, an unrealistic goal today. It is now possible to gain vast amounts of personal knowledge from the residue left by a human touch. The results can not only reveal physical characteristics, including race, but commonly implicate people in crimes.
The most important challenge facing genetic information providers is to present critical data without engendering discrimination based only on genetic potential rather than actual behavior. Laws already exist that prevent future employers from discriminatory hiring practices based on genes. Although the health advantages these companies provide are far-reaching, protecting people from societal abuses is equally important.
The basis of current methods of analysis was established during the Human Genome Project nearly thirty years ago. A scientific race to become the first to create a landmark human genetic map helped speed progress in the field. Full or partial sequencing currently gives individuals additional insight into inherited physical and personality traits, and also points out a predisposition to certain types of cancer.
A personal analysis cannot answer every question sparked by the information contained in those genes, but does provide more genetic information than has ever been available previously. For many people, that analysis provides a window into their own personality and physical health, and creates greater understanding of the influences that inheritance exerts. While useful, this information may have unintended consequences.
The main advantage of an analysis is medical. Although most people have a generalized idea regarding the physical issues faced by parents or grandparents, knowing whether or not those propensities have been passed on can make predicting and treating certain illnesses easier and more effective. As more people participate, databases can be created that create a baseline for insight.
That data is only a printout, but has the potential to be life-changing. When a map reveals the strong chance of developing a particular illness, patients have the opportunity to become more proactive in their own preventive health regimen. Detailing those possibilities helps doctors better manage patient medications, and to screen for problems more frequently. This approach makes personalized care both possible and practical.
In addition to the medical advantages, there are social benefits that become more obvious to people now able to widely share their own experiences. Being able to contact others who face similar issues provides a better basis of support for those struggling to cope with illness. While this can be a real advantage, some scientists worry that the information will be used to stigmatize or profile people.
Even as the technology advances, personal gene sequencing has spotlighted privacy issues. The ideal solution would be to protect significant databases from outside scrutiny, an unrealistic goal today. It is now possible to gain vast amounts of personal knowledge from the residue left by a human touch. The results can not only reveal physical characteristics, including race, but commonly implicate people in crimes.
The most important challenge facing genetic information providers is to present critical data without engendering discrimination based only on genetic potential rather than actual behavior. Laws already exist that prevent future employers from discriminatory hiring practices based on genes. Although the health advantages these companies provide are far-reaching, protecting people from societal abuses is equally important.
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