1
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Yanes T, Blencoe M, Howard A, Tiller J, Wallingford C, Otlowski M, Keogh L, Lacaze P, McInerney-Leo A. Australian researcher's perspectives on the Australian industry-led moratorium on genetic tests in life insurance. Am J Med Genet A 2024; 194:e63565. [PMID: 38353314 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Fear of insurance discrimination can inhibit genetic research participation. In 2019, an industry-led partial moratorium on using genetic results in Australian life insurance underwriting was introduced. This mixed-methods study used online surveys (n = 59 participants) and semi-structured interviews (n = 22 participants) to capture researchers' perceptions about the moratorium. 66% (n = 39/59) were aware of the moratorium before the survey. Of researchers returning genetic results, 56% (n = 22/39) reported that insurance implications were mentioned in consent forms, but a minority reported updating consent forms post-moratorium (n = 13/39, 33%). Most researchers reported that concerns regarding life insurers utilizing research results inhibited recruitment (35/59, 59%), and few perceived that the moratorium positively influenced participation (n = 9/39, 23%). These findings were supported by qualitative findings which revealed that genetic discrimination concerns were a major issue for some individuals, though these concerns could be eclipsed by the promise of a diagnosis through research participation. The majority thought a regulatory solution should be permanent (n = 34/51, 67%), have financial limits of at least ≥1,000,000 AUD (37/51, 73%), and involve government oversight/legislation (n = 44/51, 86%). In an era where an increasing number of research studies involve genomics as a primary or secondary objective, it is crucial that we have regulatory solutions to address participants' hesitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiane Yanes
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Marisa Blencoe
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Antonia Howard
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jane Tiller
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Courtney Wallingford
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Louise Keogh
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Lacaze
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aideen McInerney-Leo
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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2
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Wang Z, Guo Y, Xu R. Attitude Disparity and Worrying Scenarios in Genetic Discrimination-Based on Questionnaires from China. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11020188. [PMID: 36673556 PMCID: PMC9859512 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: As genetic testing is increasingly used in non-medical fields, the judgment of people's potential conditions based on predictive genetic information inevitably causes genetic discrimination (henceforth GD). This article aimed to systematically investigate the disparity in attitudes and worrying scenarios concerning GD in China. Methods: A questionnaire survey of 555 respondents was conducted. Statistical tests were used to examine disparity in attitudes between gender, age, and education. A descriptive analysis was also conducted to explore other worrying scenarios. Results: It shows that (1) men are more tolerant of GD compared to women, and (2) participants aged between 18 and 30 years old possess the highest objection to GD. However, (3) no indication can attest to the relationship between educational level and perspective on GD. In addition, (4) the acceptance of gene testing in the three most common scenarios is ranked in descending order as follows: partner choice, insurance services, and recruitment. Moreover, (5) worrying scenarios relating to GD include: education, social occasions, medical services, fertility, shopping, and so on. Conclusions: Based on the results, suggestions proposed include developing a blacklist mechanism in the field of genetic data application and strengthening the security regulations for the commercial use of genetic data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Wang
- School of Economics, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510520, China
- Key Laboratory of Digital Economy and Data Governance, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510520, China
| | - Yujun Guo
- LIESMARS, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Rui Xu
- School of Economics, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510520, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-20-3932-2722
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3
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Jaskulski S, Nuszbaum C, Michels KB. Components, prospects and challenges of personalized prevention. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1075076. [PMID: 36875367 PMCID: PMC9978387 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1075076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective preventive strategies are urgently needed to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. To date, most prevention efforts to reduce disease incidence have primarily targeted populations using "one size fits all" public health recommendations and strategies. However, the risk for complex heterogeneous diseases is based on a multitude of clinical, genetic, and environmental factors, which translate into individual sets of component causes for every person. Recent advances in genetics and multi-omics enable the use of new technologies to stratify disease risks at an individual level fostering personalized prevention. In this article, we review the main components of personalized prevention, provide examples, and discuss both emerging opportunities and remaining challenges for its implementation. We encourage physicians, health policy makers, and public health professionals to consider and apply the key elements and examples of personalized prevention laid out in this article while overcoming challenges and potential barriers to their implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Jaskulski
- Institute for Prevention and Cancer Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Competence Area of Personalized Prevention, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Cosima Nuszbaum
- Institute for Prevention and Cancer Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Competence Area of Personalized Prevention, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Karin B Michels
- Institute for Prevention and Cancer Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Competence Network Preventive Medicine Baden-Württemberg, Competence Area of Personalized Prevention, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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4
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Devi MP, Dasgupta M, Mohanty S, Sharma SK, Hegde V, Roy SS, Renadevan R, Kumar KB, Patel HK, Sahoo MR. DNA Barcoding and ITS2 Secondary Structure Predictions in Taro ( Colocasia esculenta L. Schott) from the North Eastern Hill Region of India. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13122294. [PMID: 36553561 PMCID: PMC9778394 DOI: 10.3390/genes13122294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Taro (Colocasia esculenta L. Schott, Araceae), an ancient root and tuber crop, is highly polygenic, polyphyletic, and polygeographic in nature, which leads to its rapid genetic erosion. To prevent the perceived loss of taro diversity, species discrimination and genetic conservation of promising taro genotypes need special attention. Reports on genetic discrimination of taro at its center of origin are still untapped. We performed DNA barcoding of twenty promising genotypes of taro indigenous to the northeastern hill region of India, deploying two chloroplast-plastid genes, matK and rbcL, and the ribosomal nuclear gene ITS2. The secondary structure of ITS2 was determined and molecular phylogeny was performed to assess genetic discrimination among the taro genotypes. The matK and rbcL genes were highly efficient (>90%) in amplification and sequencing. However, the ITS2 barcode region achieved significant discrimination among the tested taro genotypes. All the taro genotypes displayed most similar sequences at the conserved matK and rbcL loci. However, distinct sequence lengths were observed in the ITS2 barcode region, revealing accurate discriminations among the genotypes. Multiple barcode markers are unrelated to one another and change independently, providing different estimations of heritable traits and genetic lineages; thus, they are advantageous over a single locus in genetic discrimination studies. A dynamic programming algorithm that used base-pairing interactions within a single nucleic acid polymer or between two polymers transformed the secondary structures into the symbol code data to predict seven different minimum free energy secondary structures. Our analysis strengthens the potential of the ITS2 gene as a potent DNA barcode candidate in the prediction of a valuable secondary structure that would help in genetic discrimination between the genotypes while augmenting future breeding strategies in taro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayengbam Premi Devi
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Imphal 795004, India
- College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (CAU-Imphal), Kyrdemkulai 793105, India
| | - Madhumita Dasgupta
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Imphal 795004, India
| | - Sansuta Mohanty
- Central Horticultural Experiment Station, ICAR–Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bhubaneswar 751019, India
| | - Susheel Kumar Sharma
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Imphal 795004, India
- ICAR—Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Campus, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Vivek Hegde
- ICAR—Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Thiruvananthapuram 695017, India
- ICAR—Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru 560089, India
| | - Subhra Saikat Roy
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Imphal 795004, India
| | - Rennya Renadevan
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad 570007, India
| | | | - Hitendra Kumar Patel
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad 570007, India
- Correspondence: (H.K.P.); (M.R.S.); Tel.: +91-674-247-1867 (M.R.S.); Fax: +91-674-247-1712 (M.R.S.)
| | - Manas Ranjan Sahoo
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Imphal 795004, India
- Central Horticultural Experiment Station, ICAR–Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bhubaneswar 751019, India
- Correspondence: (H.K.P.); (M.R.S.); Tel.: +91-674-247-1867 (M.R.S.); Fax: +91-674-247-1712 (M.R.S.)
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5
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Ogbunugafor CB, Edge MD. Gattaca as a lens on contemporary genetics: Marking 25 years into the film's "not-too-distant" future. Genetics 2022; 222:6758250. [PMID: 36218390 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The 1997 film Gattaca has emerged as a canonical pop culture reference used to discuss modern controversies in genetics and bioethics. It appeared in theaters a few years prior to the announcement of the "completion" of the human genome (2000), as the science of human genetics was developing a renewed sense of its social implications. The story is set in a near-future world in which parents can, with technological assistance, influence the genetic composition of their offspring on the basis of predicted life outcomes. The current moment-25 years after the film's release-offers an opportunity to reflect on where society currently stands with respect to the ideas explored in Gattaca. Here, we review and discuss several active areas of genetic research-genetic prediction, embryo selection, forensic genetics, and others-that interface directly with scenes and concepts in the film. On its silver anniversary, we argue that Gattaca remains an important reflection of society's expectations and fears with respect to the ways that genetic science has manifested in the real world. In accompanying supplemental material, we offer some thought questions to guide group discussions inside and outside of the classroom.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Brandon Ogbunugafor
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520 USA.,Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM, 87501 USA.,Vermont Complex Systems Center, Burlington, VT, 05401 USA
| | - Michael D Edge
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089 USA
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6
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Abstract
Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) is a mild to moderate intellectual disability. Historically, this condition has been a primary target for prenatal testing. However, Down syndrome has not been targeted for prenatal testing because it is an especially severe illness. The condition was just one that could be easily identified prenatally using the techniques first available decades ago. We are moving into an era in which we can prenatally test for a vast range of human traits. I argue that when we can test for anything, there is no longer any reason to continue targeting Down syndrome. I present an argument based on the value of nondiscrimination. It is justified to set limits on access to prenatal information if the information is going to be used for discriminatory purposes. I use the examples of (1) prenatal testing for misogynistic fetal sex selection, and (2) homophobia-motivated prenatal testing for potential homosexuality, as compelling analogies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Kaposy
- Centre for Bioethics, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, Canada
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7
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Buckenham Boyle E. Justice for Our Genes: The Case for Genetic Non-discrimination Regulations in the New Zealand Life Insurance Industry. J Law Med 2022; 29:760-782. [PMID: 36056665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
While most comparable jurisdictions have adopted more restrictive positions, life insurers in New Zealand remain permitted to request the disclosure of predictive genetic test results from applicants, driving up the cost to obtain life insurance for those with known susceptibilities to genetic disease. The permissive approach is now an outlier, and risks disincentivising health care and research innovation, facilitating irrational discrimination, and compounding existing health inequities. This article examines the New Zealand position through a consequentialist lens. It analyses justifications for the status quo, as well as international approaches, before concluding that genetic non-discrimination regulations governing New Zealand's life insurance industry should be introduced to enhance public wellbeing.
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8
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Joly Y, Huerne K, Arych M, Bombard Y, De Paor A, Dove ES, Granados Moreno P, Ho CWL, Ho CH, Van Hoyweghen I, Kim H, Lebret A, Minssen T, Ó Cathaoir K, Prince AER, Nair APS, Otlowski M, Pepper MS, Sladek R, Song L, Voigt TH, Zawati MH, Dalpé G; Genetic Discrimination Observatory (GDO). The Genetic Discrimination Observatory: confronting novel issues in genetic discrimination. Trends Genet 2021; 37:951-4. [PMID: 34503867 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Genetic discrimination (GD) is the differential or unfair profiling of an individual on the basis of genetic data. This article summarizes the actions of the Genetic Discrimination Observatory (GDO) in addressing GD and recent developments in GD since late 2020. It shows how GD can take many forms in today's rapidly evolving society.
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9
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Alarie S, Hagan J, Dalpé G, Faraji S, Mbuya-Bienge C, Nabi H, Pashayan N, Brooks JD, Dorval M, Chiquette J, Eloy L, Turgeon A, Lambert-Côté L, Paquette JS, Walker MJ, Lapointe J, Granados Moreno P, Blackmore K, Wolfson M, Broeders M, Knoppers BM, Chiarelli AM, Simard J, Joly Y. Risk-Stratified Approach to Breast Cancer Screening in Canada: Women's Knowledge of the Legislative Context and Concerns about Discrimination from Genetic and Other Predictive Health Data. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11080726. [PMID: 34442372 PMCID: PMC8398750 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11080726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of risk-stratified approaches in improving population-based breast cancer screening programs depends in no small part on women’s buy-in. Fear of genetic discrimination (GD) could be a potential barrier to genetic testing uptake as part of risk assessment. Thus, the objective of this study was twofold. First, to evaluate Canadian women’s knowledge of the legislative context governing GD. Second, to assess their concerns about the possible use of breast cancer risk levels by insurance companies or employers. We use a cross-sectional survey of 4293 (age: 30–69) women, conducted in four Canadian provinces (Alberta, British Colombia, Ontario and Québec). Canadian women’s knowledge of the regulatory framework for GD is relatively limited, with some gaps and misconceptions noted. About a third (34.7%) of the participants had a lot of concerns about the use of their health information by employers or insurers; another third had some concerns (31.9%), while 20% had no concerns. There is a need to further educate and inform the Canadian public about GD and the legal protections that exist to prevent it. Enhanced knowledge could facilitate the implementation and uptake of risk prediction informed by genetic factors, such as the risk-stratified approach to breast cancer screening that includes risk levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Alarie
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada; (S.A.); (G.D.); (S.F.); (P.G.M.); (B.M.K.); (Y.J.)
| | - Julie Hagan
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada; (S.A.); (G.D.); (S.F.); (P.G.M.); (B.M.K.); (Y.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(514)-398-8155
| | - Gratien Dalpé
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada; (S.A.); (G.D.); (S.F.); (P.G.M.); (B.M.K.); (Y.J.)
| | - Sina Faraji
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada; (S.A.); (G.D.); (S.F.); (P.G.M.); (B.M.K.); (Y.J.)
| | - Cynthia Mbuya-Bienge
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Hermann Nabi
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Université Laval Cancer Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1R 3S3, Canada
| | - Nora Pashayan
- Department of Applied Health Research, Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK;
| | - Jennifer D. Brooks
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.D.B.); (M.J.W.); (A.M.C.)
| | - Michel Dorval
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
- CISSS de Chaudière-Appalaches Research Center, Lévis, QC G6V 3Z1, Canada
| | - Jocelyne Chiquette
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
- Département de Médecine Familiale et de Médecine D’urgence, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Laurence Eloy
- Québec Cancer Program, Ministère de la Santé et des Services Sociaux, Quebec City, QC G1S 2M1, Canada;
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, CISSS de Lanaudière-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Annie Turgeon
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Laurence Lambert-Côté
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Jean-Sébastien Paquette
- Département de Médecine Familiale et de Médecine D’urgence, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Meghan J. Walker
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.D.B.); (M.J.W.); (A.M.C.)
- Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario), Toronto, ON M5G 2L3, Canada;
| | - Julie Lapointe
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Palmira Granados Moreno
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada; (S.A.); (G.D.); (S.F.); (P.G.M.); (B.M.K.); (Y.J.)
| | | | - Michael Wolfson
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada;
| | - Mireille Broeders
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
- Dutch Expert Centre for Screening, 6538 SW Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bartha M. Knoppers
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada; (S.A.); (G.D.); (S.F.); (P.G.M.); (B.M.K.); (Y.J.)
| | - Anna M. Chiarelli
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; (J.D.B.); (M.J.W.); (A.M.C.)
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, CISSS de Lanaudière-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Jacques Simard
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; (C.M.-B.); (H.N.); (M.D.); (J.C.); (A.T.); (L.L.-C.); (J.L.); (J.S.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Yann Joly
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada; (S.A.); (G.D.); (S.F.); (P.G.M.); (B.M.K.); (Y.J.)
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10
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Abstract
The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) provides federal safeguards to prohibit employer or insurance discrimination based on personal or familial genetic information or conditions. Awareness of the implications of genetic testing in individuals and families and of state and federal legislation in place for their protection is an essential component of oncology nursing practice. This article discusses the critical role of the oncology nurse in interacting with and providing information about GINA to patients in a cancer care setting engaged in genetic assessment.
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11
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Dalpé G, Pinkesz M, Oliviero E, Tolymbek M, Joly Y. Genetic discrimination views in online discussion forums: Perspectives from Canadian forumites. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:1613-1628. [PMID: 33871129 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent advancements in genetic technologies have made genetic information increasingly sought out in a wide range of non-therapeutic contexts, which has increased the risk that such information be used to discriminate against individuals. Frequently, it is genetic counselors who have to respond to questions about genetic discrimination (GD) from worried patients. Here, we examine the general Canadian public's knowledge, attitudes, and concerns about GD through a comprehensive analysis and categorization of posts from selected Canadian online discussion forums. Overall, we collected 1,638 posts, from which we coded 694 posts originating from newspaper comment sections and Reddit posts that were categorized to yield 6 main themes that consistently concerned Canadian users on the topics of GD: (a) discussions centered around how insurance business practices can be affected by genetic information; (b) issues in employment; (c) 'fear' of genetic testing and eugenics; (d) preventive approaches such as law and human rights instruments; (e) the predictive value and privacy that should be conferred to genetic information; and (f) other ethical issues. Overall, discussions addressed risk stratification models applied to genetic information and personal insurance underwriting. We find that many forum users (aka forumites) fear GD in insurance and employment, consider genetic information private, and strongly support different legal approaches to prevent GD. However, we find dissension among forumites that may represent different advocacy groups such as insurers and employers. From these important concerns and social conceptions, we discuss issues that should be taken into consideration for the development of future policies and information campaigns addressing GD in Canada and other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gratien Dalpé
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Miriam Pinkesz
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Elisabeth Oliviero
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Maria Tolymbek
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Yann Joly
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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12
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Abstract
Along with the potential for breakthroughs in care and prevention, the search for genetic mechanisms underlying the spread and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) introduces the risk of discrimination against those found to have markers for susceptibility. We propose new legal protections to mitigate gaps in protections under existing laws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert I Field
- Dornsife School of Public Health and Kline School of Law, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Anthony W Orlando
- College of Business Administration, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA, USA.
| | - Arnold J Rosoff
- The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Chapman CR, Mehta KS, Parent B, Caplan AL. Genetic discrimination: emerging ethical challenges in the context of advancing technology. J Law Biosci 2020; 7:lsz016. [PMID: 34221431 PMCID: PMC8249090 DOI: 10.1093/jlb/lsz016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Genetic testing is becoming more widespread, and its capabilities and predictive power are growing. In this paper, we evaluate the ethical justifications for and strength of the US legal framework that aims to protect patients, research participants, and consumers from genetic discrimination in employment and health insurance settings in the context of advancing genetic technology. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) and other laws prohibit genetic and other health-related discrimination in the United States, but these laws have significant limitations, and some provisions are under threat. If accuracy and predictive power increase, specific instances of use of genetic information by employers may indeed become ethically justifiable; however, any changes to laws would need to be adopted cautiously, if at all, given that people have consented to genetic testing with the expectation that there would be no genetic discrimination in employment or health insurance settings. However, if our society values access to healthcare for both the healthy and the sick, we should uphold strict and broad prohibitions against genetic and health-related discrimination in the context of health insurance, including employer-based health insurance. This is an extremely important but often overlooked consideration in the current US debate on healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Riley Chapman
- Division of Medical Ethics, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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14
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Golinghorst DR, Prince AER. A survey of U. S. state insurance commissioners concerning genetic testing and life insurance: Redux at 27. J Genet Couns 2019; 29:928-935. [PMID: 31850620 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Nearly three decades ago, scientists set out on one of the largest research endeavors in modern history-mapping the human genome. The research not only sparked new technologies and genetic tests, but also concomitant concerns regarding ethical, legal, and social implications of the technologies. These developments ultimately resulted in an expanded role for genetic counselors to educate consumers about the possible consequences of receiving genetic test results. In particular, many individuals undergoing testing worry that the resulting information could be used by social actors, such as life insurers, in harmful ways. Because life insurance is regulated at the state level, there is significant variability across the United States in laws and enforcement protecting consumers' genetic information. This article reports the results of a survey of U.S. state insurance commissioners regarding regulation of genetic testing and life insurance. The survey builds on a 1992 survey conducted by Jean E. McEwen et al. It returns to current U.S. state insurance commissioners to investigate changes in the climate surrounding genetic information use and risks of misuse within the insurance industry. In their 1992 survey, McEwen et al. found that: (a) genetic testing was not yet perceived to pose a significant problem for insurance rating, (b) life insurers had quite a bit of legal freedom to require and use genetic test results, and (c) insurance commissioners had received few consumers' complaints about the use of genetic information. Twenty-seven years later, our survey finds an increase in regulation protecting genetic information in insurance, but at a pace much slower than that of advances in new DNA technologies. This lag in policy to match technology increases potential risks for consumers. Our study further reveals certain inconsistencies in the letter of state law protecting consumers' genetic information and how state insurance commissioners apply that law. The study also shows that despite empirical evidence in the literature demonstrating consumer fear about genetic discrimination, consumers do not report these concerns to their state insurance commissioner. We suggest genetic counselors are key stakeholders who can help fill current gaps between consumers and the insurance industry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anya E R Prince
- University of Iowa College of Law, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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15
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Steck MB. Response to "Workplace Wellness Programs: Educating Patients and Families About Discrimination Via Disclosure of Genetic Information". Clin J Oncol Nurs 2019; 23:124. [PMID: 30880805 DOI: 10.1188/19.cjon.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An article by Steck (2018), published in the August issue of the Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, stated that workplace wellness programs are legally permitted to request the family medical history of employees. However, since publication, the previously cited regulations have been redacted, and the relevant information needs updated.
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Kim WJ, Yang S, Choi G, Park I, Noh P, Seo C, Moon BC. Development of conventional PCR and real-time PCR assays to discriminate the origins of Chinese pepper oil and herbal materials from Zanthoxylum. J Sci Food Agric 2019; 99:2021-2029. [PMID: 30370936 PMCID: PMC6590328 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.9458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To ensure the safety, quality and therapeutic efficacy of processed foods and herbal medicines, it is important to identify and discriminate economically motivated adulterants. Zanthoxylum schinifolium is sold at a higher price than other Zanthoxylum species and is frequently adulterated with closely related Zanthoxylum species because of its high demand as a Korean food ingredient and medicinal material in markets. In addition, the pericarps of three Zanthoxylum species (Z. schinifolium, Z. bungeanum and Z. piperitum) are defined as herbal medicine Zanthoxyli Pericarpium in Korean pharmacopoeias, but not Z. piperitum in Chinese pharmacopoeias. Further confusion arises in the morphological similarity between Z. armatum (adulterant) and Z. bungeanum. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) marker for discrimination of four Zanthoxylum species. RESULTS With the goal of developing rapid and reliable tools for genetic discrimination of authentic Zanthoxyli Pericarpium, we designed species-specific SCAR markers, based on ITS2 sequences, that generate amplicons of less than 200 bp. Using these markers, we established both conventional and real-time PCR assay methods capable of differentiating samples at the species level. We validated the ability of SCAR markers to authenticate edible oil and herbal medicine, and confirmed that some herbal medicines contaminated with Z. armatum are being distributed as Zanthoxyli Pericarpium in Korean and Chinese markets. CONCLUSIONS The SCAR markers and PCR methods described represent powerful tools for protecting against adulteration and ensuring standardization of processed foods and herbal medicine. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wook Jin Kim
- Herbal Medicine Research DivisionKorea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Sungyu Yang
- Herbal Medicine Research DivisionKorea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Goya Choi
- Herbal Medicine Research DivisionKorea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Inkyu Park
- Herbal Medicine Research DivisionKorea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Pureum Noh
- Herbal Medicine Research DivisionKorea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Chang‐Seob Seo
- Herbal Medicine Research DivisionKorea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Byeong Cheol Moon
- Herbal Medicine Research DivisionKorea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeonRepublic of Korea
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review information concerning current federal genetic nondiscrimination laws to increase awareness and knowledge of these laws for oncology nurses. DATA SOURCES Genetic information nondiscrimination policy research, case law, professional organization Web sites, peer-reviewed journals. CONCLUSION Genetic nondiscrimination is addressed in four major federal laws. The need continues for comprehensive federal genetic nondiscrimination legislation, applicable to all Americans regardless of their genetic predisposition. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Oncology nurses need to effectively advocate for patients and their families by interpreting and disseminating provisions and limitations contained in existing federal genetic discrimination laws.
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Prince AER. Political economy, stakeholder voices, and saliency: lessons from international policies regulating insurer use of genetic information. J Law Biosci 2018; 5:461-494. [PMID: 31143452 PMCID: PMC6534773 DOI: 10.1093/jlb/lsz001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A decade ago, Congress passed the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), with the goals to address fear of genetic discrimination and prevent adverse health insurance and employment decisions on the basis of one's genetic information. Yet, fear of discrimination remains because other insurers, notably life, long-term care, and disability insurers, are not covered by the law. Therefore, there have been persistent murmurings for a 'GINA 2.0' to extend the protections of the original law. Although it is plausible to assume that the insurance industry has the political economy to control future regulation, given the saliency of genetic discrimination, other stakeholders and bureaucrats may have greater influence. This paper explores the history of policy in four countries-the United Kingdom, Sweden, Australia, and Canada. Each country provides examples of continued policy debate and change following an initial period of reliance on insurance industry self-regulation, with change generally occurring over the objection of the insurance industry. This article argues that US insurers, regulators, and stakeholders should negotiate a consensus solution for insurer use of genetic information that balances between social and economic considerations. Without compromise, continued saliency and a weakened political economy of insurers will foster continued entrenched debate on the issue.
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Abstract
Ten years ago, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act ('GINA') came into law. While it was unclear how prevalent genetic discrimination was, GINA was enacted preemptively to prevent discrimination in insurance and employment. It also created uniform protections to remedy a confusing patchwork of state and federal protections. Finally, Congress hoped GINA would allay public fears of genetic discrimination that discouraged people from undergoing genetic testing and participating in genetics research. To address those fears, Congress enacted robust protections against genetic discrimination in health insurance and employment, in part, by defining 'genetic information' as broadly as possible. Over the last ten years, however, the courts have been battling over the meaning of 'genetic information'. One interpretive approach adheres strictly to GINA's statutory language; the second interprets the definition restrictively and contrary to the plain meaning of GINA and its underlying goals. While this interpretive conflict demonstrates the difficulty of distinguishing genetic information from non-medical information, this article argues for the broader interpretation. Such an interpretation reflects Congress's choice among imperfect definitional options and it furthers the goal of creating strong protections in health insurance and employment. Finally, definitional consistency is necessary to achieve uniform protections against genetic discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia M Suter
- Law School, George Washington University, 2000 H St, NW, Washington, Maryland, USA
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Tiller J, Keogh L, Wake S, Delatycki M, Otlowski M, Lacaze P. Genetics, Insurance and Professional Practice: Survey of the Australasian Clinical Genetics Workforce. Front Public Health 2018; 6:333. [PMID: 30542646 PMCID: PMC6277853 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In Australia and New Zealand, by contrast with much of the developed world, insurance companies can use genetic test results to refuse cover or increase premiums for mutually-rated insurance products, including life, income protection and disability insurance. Genetics professionals regularly discuss insurance implications with clients and report the issue as a clinical challenge, yet no studies have examined clinical practices or opinions. This study surveyed genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists from Australia and New Zealand to (i) investigate variability in professional practice across the Australasian clinical genetic workforce relating to the insurance implications of genetic testing, and (ii) ascertain views regarding current regulation of the issue. There was considerable variability in training and clinical policies, especially around the communication of insurance implications. Almost half of participants reported receiving no training on the insurance implications of genetic testing, and almost 40% were unsure whether they could adequately advise clients. A number of deficits in professional knowledge and understanding of the issue were identified. Widespread concerns regarding regulation of this area were reported, with < 10% of Australian participants considering current Australian regulations as adequate to protect clients from genetic discrimination. The findings from this study highlight scope for greater education, consistency and professional training on the issue of genetics and insurance in Australasia, and strong agreement about the need for regulatory reform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Tiller
- Public Health Genomics, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Louise Keogh
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Samantha Wake
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Martin Delatycki
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Bruce Lefroy Centre, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Margaret Otlowski
- Faculty of Law, Centre for Law and Genetics, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Paul Lacaze
- Public Health Genomics, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Abstract
Oncology nurses are advocates for the ethical and legal use of patients' genetic information. However, this information may be used to discriminate against individuals when they share it while participating in workplace wellness programs. Amendments to federal genetic discrimination laws may lead employees to being financially penalized for nondisclosure of their genetic information. This article stresses the importance of nurses being aware of these laws and pushing for policy revision to protect sensitive genetic information.
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Tiller J, Otlowski M, Lacaze P. Should Australia Ban the Use of Genetic Test Results in Life Insurance? Front Public Health 2017; 5:330. [PMID: 29322039 PMCID: PMC5733354 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Under current Australian regulation, life insurance companies can require applicants to disclose all genetic test results, including results from research or direct-to-consumer tests. Life insurers can then use this genetic information in underwriting and policy decisions for mutually rated products, including life, permanent disability, and total income protection insurance. Over the past decade, many countries have implemented moratoria or legislative bans on the use of genetic information by life insurers. The Australian government, by contrast, has not reviewed regulation since 2005 when it failed to ensure implementation of recommendations made by the Australian Law Reform Commission. In that time, the Australian life insurance industry has been left to self-regulate its use of genetic information. As a result, insurance fears in Australia now are leading to deterred uptake of genetic testing by at-risk individuals and deterred participation in medical research, both of which have been documented. As the potential for genomic medicine grows, public trust and engagement are critical for successful implementation. Concerns around life insurance may become a barrier to the development of genomic health care, research, and public health initiatives in Australia, and the issue should be publicly addressed. We argue a moratorium on the use of genetic information by life insurers should be enacted while appropriate longer term policy is determined and implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Tiller
- Public Health Genomics, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Margaret Otlowski
- Centre for Law and Genetics, Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Paul Lacaze
- Public Health Genomics, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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23
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Dalpé G, Ngueng Feze I, Salman S, Joly Y, Hagan J, Lévesque E, Dorval V, Blouin-Bougie J, Amara N, Dorval M, Simard J. Breast Cancer Risk Estimation and Personal Insurance: A Qualitative Study Presenting Perspectives from Canadian Patients and Decision Makers. Front Genet 2017; 8:128. [PMID: 28983318 PMCID: PMC5613157 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2017.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic stratification approaches in personalized medicine may considerably improve our ability to predict breast cancer risk for women at higher risk of developing breast cancer. Notwithstanding these advantages, concerns have been raised about the use of the genetic information derived in these processes, outside of the research and medical health care settings, by third parties such as insurers. Indeed, insurance applicants are asked to consent to insurers accessing their medical information (implicitly including genetic) to verify or determine their insurability level, or eligibility to certain insurance products. This use of genetic information may result in the differential treatment of individuals based on their genetic information, which could lead to higher premium, exclusionary clauses or even the denial of coverage. This phenomenon has been commonly referred to as “Genetic Discrimination” (GD). In the Canadian context, where federal Bill S-201, An Act to prohibit and prevent genetic discrimination, has recently been enacted but may be subject to constitutional challenges, information about potential risks to insurability may raise issues in the clinical context. We conducted a survey with women in Quebec who have never been diagnosed with breast cancer to document their perspectives. We complemented the research with data from 14 semi-structured interviews with decision-makers in Quebec to discuss institutional issues raised by the use of genetic information by insurers. Our results provide findings on five main issues: (1) the reluctance to undergo genetic screening test due to insurability concerns, (2) insurers' interest in genetic information, (3) the duty to disclose genetic information to insurers, (4) the disclosure of potential impacts on insurability before genetic testing, and (5) the status of genetic information compared to other health data. Overall, both groups of participants (the women surveyed and the decision-makers interviewed) acknowledged having concerns about GD and reported a need for better communication tools discussing insurability risk. Our conclusions regarding concerns about GD and the need for better communication tools in the clinical setting may be transferable to the broader Canadian context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gratien Dalpé
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ida Ngueng Feze
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| | - Shahad Salman
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| | - Yann Joly
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| | - Julie Hagan
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| | - Emmanuelle Lévesque
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| | - Véronique Dorval
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Quebec, Laval UniversityQuebec, QC, Canada
| | | | - Nabil Amara
- Faculty of Science of Administration, Laval UniversityQuebec, QC, Canada
| | - Michel Dorval
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Quebec, Laval UniversityQuebec, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval UniversityQuebec, QC, Canada
| | - Jacques Simard
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Quebec, Laval UniversityQuebec, QC, Canada
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24
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Abstract
Genetic discrimination (GD) is one of the most pervasive issues associated with genetic research and its large-scale implementation. An increasing number of countries have adopted public policies to address this issue. Our research presents a worldwide comparative review and typology of these approaches. We conclude with suggestions for public policy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Joly
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A4, Canada.
| | - Ida Ngueng Feze
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A4, Canada
| | - Lingqiao Song
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A4, Canada
| | - Bartha M Knoppers
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A4, Canada
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25
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Parkman AA, Foland J, Anderson B, Duquette D, Sobotka H, Lynn M, Nottingham S, Dotson WD, Kolor K, Cox SL. Public awareness of genetic nondiscrimination laws in four states and perceived importance of life insurance protections. J Genet Couns 2015; 24:512-21. [PMID: 25242499 PMCID: PMC4702480 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-014-9771-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Genetic testing has grown dramatically in the past decade and is becoming an integral part of health care. Genetic nondiscrimination laws have been passed in many states, and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was passed at the federal level in 2008. These laws generally protect individuals from discrimination by health insurers or employers based on genetic information, including test results. In 2010, Connecticut, Michigan, Ohio, and Oregon added four questions to their Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey to assess interest in genetic testing, awareness of genetic nondiscrimination laws, concern about genetic discrimination in determining life insurance eligibility and cost, and perceived importance of genetic nondiscrimination laws that address life insurance. Survey results showed that awareness of genetic nondiscrimination laws was low (less than 20 % of the adult population), while perceived importance of these types of laws was high (over 80 % of respondents rated them as very or somewhat important). Over two-thirds of respondents indicated they were very or somewhat concerned about life insurance companies using genetic test results to determine life insurance coverage and costs. Results indicate a need for more public education to raise awareness of protections provided through current genetic nondiscrimination laws. The high rate of concern about life insurance discrimination indicates an additional need for continued dialogue regarding the extent of legal protections in genetic nondiscrimination laws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia A Parkman
- Genetics Program, Oregon Public Health Division, 800 NE Oregon St, Ste 370, Portland, OR, 97232, USA,
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26
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Evans NG, Moreno JD. Yesterday's war; tomorrow's technology: peer commentary on 'Ethical, legal, social and policy issues in the use of genomic technologies by the US military'. J Law Biosci 2015; 2:79-84. [PMID: 27774182 PMCID: PMC5033555 DOI: 10.1093/jlb/lsu030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A recent article by Maxwell J. Mehlman and Tracy Yeheng Li, in the Journal of Law and the Biosciences, sought to examine the ethical, legal, social, and policy issues associated with the use of genetic screening and germ-line therapies ('genomic technologies') by the US Military. In this commentary, we will elaborate several related matters: the relationship between genetic and non-genetic screening methods, the history of selection processes and force strength, and the consequences and ethics of, as Mehlman and Li suggest, engineering enhanced soldiers. We contend, first, that the strengths of genomic testing as a method of determining enrollment in the armed forces has limited appeal, given the state of current selection methods in the US armed forces. Second, that the vagaries of genetic selection, much like other forms of selection that do not bear causally or reliably on soldier performance (such as race, gender, and sexuality), pose a systematic threat to force strength by limiting the (valuable) diversity of combat units. Third, that the idea of enhancing warfighters through germ-line interventions poses serious ethical issues in terms of the control and ownership of 'enhancements' when members separate from service.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the late 1980s, genetic discrimination has remained one of the major concerns associated with genetic research and clinical genetics. Europe has adopted a plethora of laws and policies, both at the regional and national levels, to prevent insurers from having access to genetic information for underwriting. Legislators from the United States and the United Kingdom have also felt compelled to adopt protective measures specifically addressing genetics and insurance. But does the available evidence really confirm the popular apprehension about genetic discrimination and the subsequent genetic exceptionalism? METHODS This paper presents the results of a systematic, critical review of over 20 years of genetic discrimination studies in the context of life insurance. RESULTS The available data clearly document the existence of individual cases of genetic discrimination. The significance of this initial finding is, however, greatly diminished by four observations. First, the methodology used in most of the studies is not sufficiently robust to clearly establish either the prevalence or the impact of discriminatory practices. Second, the current body of evidence was mostly developed around a small number of 'classic' genetic conditions. Third, the heterogeneity and small scope of most of the studies prevents formal statistical analysis of the aggregate results. Fourth, the small number of reported genetic discrimination cases in some studies could indicate that these incidents took place due to occasional errors, rather than the voluntary or planned choice, of the insurers. CONCLUSION Important methodological limitations and inconsistencies among the studies considered make it extremely difficult, at the moment, to justify policy action taken on the basis of evidence alone. Nonetheless, other empirical and theoretical factors have emerged (for example, the prevalence and impact of the fear of genetic discrimination among patients and research participants, the (un)importance of genetic information for the commercial viability of the private life insurance industry, and the need to develop more equitable schemes of access to life insurance) that should be considered along with the available evidence of genetic discrimination for a more holistic view of the debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Joly
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, 740 Dr Penfield Avenue, Suite 5200, Montreal, H3A 1A5 Canada.
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Dorsey ER, Darwin KC, Nichols PE, Kwok JH, Bennet C, Rosenthal LS, Bombard Y, Shoulson I, Oster E. Knowledge of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination act among individuals affected by Huntington disease. Clin Genet 2012; 84:251-7. [PMID: 23167775 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Revised: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008 was the first US legislation to address genetic discrimination. We sought to assess understanding of GINA among individuals affected by the autosomal dominant condition, Huntington disease (HD). We conducted a cross-sectional survey of individuals with varying risk of HD to assess their familiarity with GINA. As a control, individuals were surveyed about their familiarity with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Those who reported familiarity with GINA were asked about their knowledge of specific provisions of the legislation. The survey was offered to 776 participants and completed by 410 (response rate 53%). Respondents across all groups were less familiar with GINA (41% slightly, somewhat, or very familiar) than with HIPAA (65%; p < 0.0001). Of individuals with or at risk for HD who reported some familiarity with GINA, less than half correctly identified GINA's protections, and less than 15% correctly identified its limitations. Thus, among individuals affected by HD, familiarity with and knowledge of GINA are low. The effectiveness of the legislation may be limited by this lack of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Dorsey
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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29
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Abstract
Advances in genomics and postgenomics have renewed interest in the impact of genomic health information on private life insurance across Europe. These developments reopen the issue of how genes - apart from being the object of discrimination (exclusion) - also operate as generators of solidarity (inclusion). This article traces several developments in regulating genetics and life insurance and its social implications in the European context. At first, genes were viewed as a source of differentiation, which led to fears of 'genetic discrimination' in life insurance. In response, genetic nondiscrimination regulations were enacted across Europe. Current debates on the use of genomic health information in life insurance have actually opened up possibilities for a form of genomic solidarity between 'all of us'. The introduction of genes and genomes appears to turn private life insurance practices of actuarial risk discrimination increasingly into 'discriminatory' practices by challenging the larger fundamental 'right to underwrite'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ine Van Hoyweghen
- Department of Health, Ethics & Society (HES), CAPHRI, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht University, The Netherlands.
| | - Lisa Rebert
- Department of Health, Ethics & Society (HES), CAPHRI, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht University, The Netherlands
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Bombard Y, Palin J, Friedman JM, Veenstra G, Creighton S, Paulsen JS, Bottorff JL, Hayden MR. Factors associated with experiences of genetic discrimination among individuals at risk for Huntington disease. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2011; 156B:19-27. [PMID: 21184581 PMCID: PMC3860279 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.31130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify factors that are associated with experiencing genetic discrimination (GD) among individuals at risk for Huntington disease (HD). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to examine factors associated with experiencing GD in data from a cross-sectional, self-report survey of 293 individuals at risk for HD. The study sample comprised 167 genetically tested respondents, and 66 who were not tested (80% response rate). Overall, individuals who learn they are at risk for HD at a younger age (OR = 3.1; 95% CI: 1.5-6.2; P = 0.002), are mutation-positive (OR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.4-6.0; P = 0.006), or are highly educated (OR = 2.7; 95% CI: 1.4-5.1; P = 0.002) are more likely to experience GD, particularly in insurance, family, and social settings. Further, younger age was associated with discrimination in insurance (OR = 0.97; 95% CI: 0.94-1.00; P = 0.038). This study provides evidence that some people who are at risk for HD were more likely to experience GD than others. Individuals who learned they are at risk for HD at a younger age and those who are mutation-positive were more likely to experience GD, particularly in insurance, family, and social settings. Younger individuals were more likely to experience discrimination in the insurance setting. Overall, highly educated individuals were also more likely to report discrimination. These results provide direction for clinical and family discussions, counseling practice, and policy aimed at mitigating experiences of GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Bombard
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbis, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Health policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - JoAnne Palin
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbis, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jan M. Friedman
- Children’s & Women’s Hospital of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gerry Veenstra
- Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Susan Creighton
- Children’s & Women’s Hospital of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jane S. Paulsen
- Departments of Psychiatry, Neurology, Psychology and Neurosciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Joan L. Bottorff
- Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Michael R. Hayden
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbis, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Centre for Molecular Medicine & Therapeutics, Child & Family Research Institute, Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 4H4. Michael R. Hayden ()
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