Question

What moral obligations do people have in relation to genetic information about potential diseases? Specifically, do we have a moral obligation to know that we potentially have a disease and do we have a duty to warn others? Make sure to explain the core moral concerns when answering the questions.

Answer 1

People may have a moral obligation to understand their genetic risks and potentially inform relatives. Core ethical issues include privacy, discrimination, and autonomy in health care decisions. GINA offers some protections against misuse of genetic data.

Step-by-step explanation:

Individuals may feel a moral obligation to know about their potential genetic diseases, as this knowledge can inform health choices and family planning. Ethically, there is also a possible duty to warn family members of genetic risks because it can significantly impact their health decisions and lifestyle choices. Genetic privacy is a paramount concern.

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) addresses some, but not all, potential abuses of this information. Moreover, there are profound implications for individual autonomy. Should genome sequencing become mandatory or a condition for insurance coverage? These decisions carry significant ethical weight, as they relate to an individual's right to make informed choices about their health care.