Genetic Matters: A Public Question and
Answer Forum
(Updated February 2007)
Knowledge in the field of human genetics
has expanded tremendously over the last few decades. Daily, the
media report new research discoveries. This information raises
many concerns about ethical, medical, legal, and social issues.
Among these concerns are insurability, discrimination, employability,
confidentiality and availability of testing. These new discoveries
also firmly establish hope for understanding, treating and preventing
many of the common chronic conditions such as cancer, heart disease,
mental retardation and causes of birth defects. Today, and in
the future, this information will play an important role in our
personal lives and decision-making abilities as we grow, learn,
work and raise our families.
The Greenwood Genetic Center hopes to
expand public discourse in the field of genetics through periodic
newspaper columns in the Index-Journal. These columns provide
a ready source for public discussion and understanding on the
numerous issues surrounding this work. From 1997-1999 the column
was called the Greenwood Genetic Connection and was authored by
Kevin M. Sweet, Genetic Counselor. In September 2000
the column was renamed Genetic Matters and is written by Leta Tribble,
Education Coordinator of the Greenwood Genetic Center. Questions
are invited, and should be directed to Leta Tribble (email:
lmt@ggc.org).
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