Genetic risk assessment and insurance

A secure system for genomics clinical decision support

We developed a prototype genomic archiving and communications system to securely store genome data and provide clinical decision support (CDS). This system operates on a client-server model. The client encrypts the data, and the server stores data and performs the computations necessary for CDS. Computations are directly performed on encrypted data, and the client decrypts results. The server cannot decrypt inputs or outputs, which provides strong guarantees of security. We have validated our system with three genomics-based CDS applications. The results demonstrate that it is possible to resolve a long-standing dilemma in genomic data privacy and accessibility, by using a principled cryptographical framework and a mathematical representation of genome data and CDS questions.

Genetic information and testing in insurance and employment: technical, social and ethical issues

The present paper examines the professional and scientific views on the social, ethical and legal issues that impact on genetic information and testing in insurance and employment in Europe. For this purpose, many aspects have been considered, such as the concerns of medical geneticists, of the insurers and employers, of the public, as well as the regulatory frameworks and unresolved issues. The method used was primarily the review of the technical, social, economical and ethical aspects of advances in genetics and the concerns of parties who are involved, that is, the insurers, the employers and the public. The existing guidelines and legislation on this topic were also reported. Then, the method was to examine the issues debated by these parties in Europe, as well as by 47 experts from 14 European countries invited to an international workshop organized by the European Society of Human Genetics Public and Professional Policy Committee in Manchester, UK, 25-27 February 2000. The result of this was that the most important issues raised by genetic information and testing in insurance and employment in Europe include a need for clear definitions of terms used in genetics, declaring the grounds on which genetic information is or is not used, and promoting confidence between the public and the insurance industry. There is currently very little use of genetic information in relation to employment, but the situation should be kept under review.

Genetic predisposition to coronary artery disease

Understanding the genetic basis of coronary artery disease (CAD) can improve management and prevention. Family and twin studies, animal models and gene association studies support a genetic basis for CAD. Genes contribute to CAD development and progression, and response to risk factor modification and lifestyle choices. Family history is the best indicator of a predisposition to CAD and further refinement is possible with biochemical and DNA testing. Many inherited cardiovascular risk factors can be modified, such as LDL cholesterol, homocysteine and lipoprotein(a). Early detection of CAD might lead to earlier intervention for genetically susceptible individuals. However, data are lacking regarding the efficacy of this approach in preventing clinical events. Despite this lack of evidence, knowledge of genetic CAD susceptibility has value in providing risk information and guiding decision making. Further research that investigates outcomes regarding genetic risk assessment for CAD is necessary.