Predictive Genetic Diagnostics as an Instrument of Disease Prevention
Predictive genetic diagnostics are part of an individualised medicine. In connection with extraordinarily efficient analytical methods through to the sequencing of entire genomes, predictive genetic diagnostics represent new territory for society. They are subject to the largely accepted and, in many cases, stipulated ethical principles of medicine: predictive genetic diagnostics should help people remain healthy, to regain their health or, at least, to alleviate the consequences of illness. The person being examined must agree voluntarily to each diagnostic investigation after being provided with information and consultation.
The three academies responsible for this statement consider it necessary to inform society, politics, funders of research, the medical profession and health insurers about the chances, limits and risks of predictive genetic diagnostics. During the preparation phase of this statement, the Deutsche Bundestag adopted the Gendiagnostikgesetz (GenDG). Due to the fact that some regulations of this law concern predictive genetic diagnostics, these regulations will also be commented upon.