Ethical Issues in Genetics

This module has three sections, direction to consumer genetic testing, what is genetic discrimination, and population based screening for hereditary cancer.

Estimated time: 3 hours and 34 minutes

1. Direct to Consumer Genetic Testing 

Introduces the phenomenon of direct-to-consumer testing (DTC) and discusses issues and challenges. Makes use of a DTC case study to illustrate these. 

Learning Objectives

• • Understand the nature and scope of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests 
  • Compare the risk and benefits of direct-to-consumer tests compared to physician or NP-ordered genetic testing 
  • Formulate a plan on how you might respond when patients ask you about DTC testing 

2. What is Genetic Discrimination? 

Introduces and defines the phenomenon of genetic discrimination. Reviews Canadian legislation around genetic discrimination. 

Learning objectives

• • Describe genetic discrimination 
  • Understand the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act (GNDA) 
  • Review the Genetic Discrimination Observatory 

3. Population Based Screening for Hereditary Cancer 

Introduce the topic of population-based genetic screening in adult populations using the example of BRCA1/BRCA2 genetic testing. 

Learning objectives

• • To define population genetic screening. 
  • To relate the Wilson and Jungner principles of screening to genetic screening. 
  • To evaluate advantages and challenges of population genetic screening for adult-onset conditions using BRCA1/BRCA2 gene testing as an example. 

 

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