Article Critique:

Is genetic testing right for you and your family?

Recent advancements within scientific research have spurred controversy over the topic of genetic testing, especially with newborns. Although scientist can now identify certain DNA markets that reveal an increased propensity for various diseases and disorder, numerous moral dilemmas quickly emerge. How will predicting future events impact the present?

Would knowing that your child is most likely going to develop Alzheimer's disease change the way that you raise him or her? Should someone help you understand the implications if you are told that your child is most likely going to be autistic? What impact will this "potential" result have on your child's healthcare? Could genetic testing force your child to be plagued with unnecessary stigmas?

Read the article by Pollack (2010) and write a two-page critique examining why so much controversy surrounds genetic testing toady. Do you agree or disagree with the author's stance on this topic?

Pollack, H. (2010). Put to the test: As genetic screening gets cheaper and easier. It's raising the questions that health-care providers aren't prepared to answer. The American Prospect, 21(9), 21-24. Retrieved from Opposing Viewpoints in Context database.