Genetics testing-pros and cons of genetic testing

Based on what you have studied and heard in class, the impact on genetics on disease is becoming a part of how we practice.  If you watch television, you might have seen the advertisements for genetic testing and you often see people very excited about “finally” having detailed information about their heritage.  I want to start a discussion on the pros and cons of genetic testing. By genetic testing, I do not mean heritage, but instead the effects of genetics on ones’ health.  Currently patients can be tested for a number of issues, like hemophilia or sickle cell disease, but the horizon is full of possible testing, including looking at the risk of cancers and problems with the fetus.   This is a personal opinion and you can bring in resources if you like, but I’d like you to discuss genetic testing because, as a nurse, people will ask your opinion and you cannot really give an honest response until you explore it.  A couple of possible starting points  (These are not required questions, but just some suggestions for discussion):

Should genetic testing be mandatory?

Should doctors, insurance companies, hospitals, employers require it of everyone they see, insure, hire, treat?

What are the benefits of genetic testing?

What are the potential problems with genetic testing?

If it was offered to you today, would you do it?

You do not have to answer those specific questions, they are just some of my thoughts, but I look forward to hearing yours.

Please post orginial post by Friday 3pm and respond to a  classmates’ posts by Saturday evening @ 2359

I expect 300-500 words as initial post and 250-350 for responses.  Please make the posts meaningful and responses respectful and substantive.  “Nice post” is neither.  If you use outside resources, make sure to use APA formatting for your reference and in-text citations.