Bad luck insurance
Article Abstract:
There are many people, among the public, in Congress, and within the Human Genome Project itself, who are deeply concerned that genetic information should remain confidential. As the project evolves, it is likely that testing will become available to screen for a wide variety of abnormal genes; such testing is already available for a select few genetic disorders. However, should this information be available to employers, insurance companies, or even prospective spouses? Many applaud the bill introduced by Representative John Conyers which would protect the privacy of personal genetic information, just as physicians currently cannot disclose information about patients. However, those who believe that such a law would prevent difficult situations from arising are overly optimistic. Perhaps the most important case is that of the insurance companies. Obviously, an insurance company will not wish to insure someone with an genetic defect. An insurance company could require a genetic exam, just as the insurance companies require a general physical today. It is difficult to imagine that a genetic exam could be made illegal while conventional laboratory analysis of blood and urine would remain acceptable. The genetic information which will evolve from the Human Genome Project will no doubt bring some important medical benefits. Unfortunately, simply passing a law to ensure privacy will not prevent dilemmas regarding confidentiality. What is really needed is the recognition that the congenital "bad luck" experienced by an individual with some deleterious gene must be a communal responsibility, and the costs incurred from genetic defects must be shared. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1990
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Glaxo and Wellcome
Article Abstract:
The merger of two giant pharmaceutical companies, Glaxo and Wellcome, has raised issues about the long-term factors of the merged company's research. Wellcome is best known for its anti-viral compounds while Glaxo for its treatment of stomach ulcers. In the modern search for new drugs, opportunities available to the company may expand and grow.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1995
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