Genetic Screening: Are Your Genes Your Own?
Halifax, Nova Scotia, February 8, 2006
The sequence of the human genome is now known. Already, links between genes and diseases like cystic fibrosis and cancer have been established.
In the not-too-distant future, a visit to the doctor could include the genetic screening of a sample of blood or other material to determine such risks, which could help speed treatment.
The potential of genetic screening in medicine is exciting. But, some people worry that genetic screening may be done without someone's permission, or that this information could fall into the wrong hands. Could someone be denied insurance or lose their job if a gene is found to be different?
On the afternoon of February 8, 2006, about 100 students from Halifax schools came to the Discovery Centre to take part in a forum called Genetic Screening: Are Your Genes Your Own? Along with three panellists, they examined some of the issues surrounding genetic screening.
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