I visited the genome project site that has information on each chromosome and their contribution to the make-up of humans and disease. I also read excerpts from a book evaluating the health care effects of genome therapy [1]. The negativity (i.e. fear of uncertainty) seems to be the constant focus as opposed to how to solve potential problems. Currently the government controls the gene therapy testing (process, process, process) which on a side note has slowed the progress. I would imagine the government will control what information about each gene screening is shared with HMOs or a spin-off of HMOs in the future (of course preceded by massive law suits making the government have strict confidentiality agreements with physicians). I say the entire health care structure or lack of freedom physicians have because of the handcuffs the HMOs provide must be re-structured. Do we really have to wait until government steps in to re-structure health care.....because that will take FOREVER. Will gene therapy ever be a reality with the current health care structure in America? Not to mention the additional information HMOs have with all medical care online.....
[1]'The Human Genome Project and the Future of Health Care' by Robert F. Murray, Mark A. Rothstein, & Thomas H. Murray (http://books.google.com/books?id=GRGxRIFGc9cC&dq=human+genome+effect&pg=PA202&ots=mggoSlDOjX&sig=rA-3lFL42qvtT_ZOQCmfRdvu-qc&prev=http://www.google.com/search%3Fhl%3Den%26rls%3DSUNA%252CSUNA%253A2006-36%252CSUNA%253Aen%26q%3Dhuman%2Bgenome%2Beffect&sa=X&oi=print&ct=result&cd=1#PPA203,M1 Chapter 3 and pages 202 & 203),
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On another note, the possibilities of gene therapy are exciting!! The technique of gene splitting and injecting gene therapy solutions can be applied to the 300 detectable genetic disorders of the 5,700 **ref previous gene book**. Confidentality laws are already in place for gene testing in 28 states. I think the benefits far outweight the potential problems. I'm ready to get my genome mapping today!
In Aug 3, 2007 USA TODAY (page 3A) discusses a current DNA confidentiality fight. A Denver district attorney wants the DNA profile of a California felon with genetic similarity to an unsolved Denver rape. The similarities support the Denver rapist was a close relative. The California district attorney will not produce the DNA profile sighting confidentiality concerns. The article mentions the United Kingdom currently supports near-match DNA investigations which has solved 15 murders. Is America being too concerned with confidentiality after a person is already a felon? I believe if the person has committed a felony, his confidentiality rights are out the window. Maybe that would be more incentive for future criminals to think twice about their actions.
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