Genetic testing is a term used to refer to some type of medical test carried out to identify changes in genes, chromosomes or proteins. It is also known as DNA testing as it helps to detect changes in chromosome structure or DNA sequence. Over the past few decades, this biotechnology has become more popular to an extent that various genetic tests have emerged and expanded. Despite its popularity, genetic testing is associated with some risks and limitations including physical risks. Consequently, numerous arguments have been raised to support and disapprove the use of this biotechnology. This paper examines reasons for and against the use of this technology and provides a position statement.
Background of Genetic Testing
Genetic tests have become popular as they help to identify abnormalities linked to an inherited disorder. These tests are carried out in different ways though they require easily obtained blood specimens and entail distinctive considerations. Genetic tests help to predict an individual’s vulnerability to certain diseases and are used for the establishment of suitable preventive measures or for preventive medicine (Glick, 2016). Despite their role in preventive medicine, genetic testing has been characterized by issues of reliability and validity. These issues have raised controversies, especially with the advent of commercially available, direct-to-consumer genetic tests. The increased availability of these tests to patients and people in the community has raised questions that have generated arguments in favor and...…in genetic tests has not been complemented by systems and procedures to assess the tests in a formal and appropriate way to determine their clinical validity and utility.
Position Statement
Despite issues surrounding its use, I believe that genetic testing is beneficial in clinical medicine. This technology still remains beneficial for preventive medicine and would help address some of the major health issues facing individuals and populations. Therefore, the use of this biotechnology in clinical medicine should increase while measures to enhance its clinical validity and utility established. Researchers and other professionals in genetics and medicine should work collaboratively to create systems and processes for improving the reliability and validity of genetic tests, especially direct-to-consumer genetic tests.
References…
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