In certain cases, genetic testing can identify mutant alleles that greatly increase a person's chance of developing a disease such as breast cancer or colon cancer. Between 50 and 70% of people with these particular mutations will develop cancer, but the rest will not. Imagine you are either a 30-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer or a 30-year-old man with a family history of colon cancer (choose one). Each person can undergo genetic testing to identify a mutation that greatly increases susceptibility to the disease. Putting yourself in the place of the person you have chosen, provide answers to the following questions.

If you have children, are you obligated to tell the children the result of the genetic test? Why or why not?

Key Concepts

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing involves analyzing an individual's DNA to identify mutations or variations that may indicate a predisposition to certain diseases. This process can reveal the presence of mutant alleles associated with increased risks for conditions like breast or colon cancer. Understanding the implications of these results is crucial for making informed decisions about health management and family planning.

Informed Consent and Disclosure

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare, requiring that individuals understand the risks, benefits, and implications of medical procedures, including genetic testing. When it comes to disclosing genetic test results to children, parents must consider the potential emotional and psychological impact, as well as the child's ability to comprehend the information. This raises important questions about parental responsibility and the right to know.

Genetic Predisposition vs. Environmental Factors

Genetic predisposition refers to the increased likelihood of developing a disease based on one's genetic makeup, while environmental factors encompass lifestyle, diet, and exposure to carcinogens that can also influence disease risk. In the context of genetic testing, understanding that not all individuals with a mutation will develop cancer (as indicated by the 50-70% statistic) highlights the complexity of disease development and the role of both genetics and environment.