Testing for cancer risk: tough questions ahead
Article Abstract:
Genes that cause ceratin cancers have been identified, such as the genes involved in retinoblastoma (tumors of the retina of the eye) and Li-Fraumeni syndrome (in which multiple types of cancer develop). These findings allow the development of tests for early detection, and provide the opportunity for intervention and perhaps prevention. At the present time, retinoblastomas are treatable but Li-Fraumeni syndrome is not. It is questioned if individuals should be tested for untreatable diseases. Most cancers involve multiple genes and the inheritance of one gene associated with cancer does not mean the person will necessarily develop cancer. The author assesses the benefits of knowing about an increased susceptibility to cancer and the risks of anxiety, and potential job and insurance discrimination. The gene that is genetically altered in Li-Fraumeni's syndrome is also involved in many other human cancers, which means that the general population could be screened. With some cancers, early treatment is beneficial, but this is not the case for others. A group of scientists at the National Institutes of Health will establish guidelines on what characteristics should determine who should receive genetic testing for cancer. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1991
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Panel slams EPA's dioxin analysis
Article Abstract:
A panel of outside scientists disputed the EPA's health assessment of dioxin, condemning it for mixing science and policy. The EPA's draft report had linked exposure to minute quantities of dioxin to a wide range of health risks.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1995
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