Human genetics - British Medical Association

This is an assessment of the ethical issues raised by human genetics research. The British Medical Association, drawing on the expertise of a wide range of advisers, has produced a compact and accessible report on a subject of increasing public concern. It is intended as a guide for doctors, counsellors, patients and policymakers.;Following an introduction to the scientific background, the report goes on to tackle the issues that face professionals: prenatal testing and its implications; screening of children and adults and the need for advice and counselling; the use of genetic information for insurance or employment purposes and the question of confidentiality; and the use of DNA profiling for paternity testing, immigration cases, and serious-crime investigation. After a discussion of future developments, such as gene therapy and cloning, the report concludes with guidelines for monitoring and regulation.;This report confronts all these complex ethical dilemmas, opening up the debate about who will control the power unleashed by genetic progress, and suggesting practical solutions for all those who already have to deal with the conflicting demands of choice and responsibility.;The book is intended for doctors, geneticists, social workers, counsellors, policymakers and medical and philosophy students.