With the recent technological advancements, the medical field has seen a significant improvement in catering to people’s health. Especially in providing personalised healthcare solutions to the patients based on their genetic information. This however, is percieved with mixed reactions form the masses. While some consider it to be a boon, others remain skeptical about its potential concerns over ethics and socioeconomic disparities.
Firstly, a medicine tailored for an individual can help target the root cause of the problem better as compared to when the solution is more generic. This is because different bodies may react differently to the same medicine. A treatment that proved successful for one may not always benefit the other due to a difference in genes. Futhermore, keeping track of the patient’s genetic information can help in the early detection of diseases. For example, if the parents’ genetic information is thoroughly known to a doctor, then this information can be used to detect any medical problems that may arise in the children. Thus, allowing early intervention and care.
On the contrary though, while it improves quality of care, one cannot neglect its ethical implications. Medical records are sensitive and any data leak can be fatal. Genetic information constitutes of highly personal data, and can easily be used for organised crimes if fallen in the wrong hands. They can even be used to blackmail or coherce a person, or be used against them to deteriorate their condition further by providing the wrong medical assistance.
In conclusion, while improving individual health if used ethically one cannot completely negate their concerns about the unethical usage of genetic information.