PRIVACY AND THE HUMAN-GENOME-PROJECT

The Human Genome Project has raised many issues regarding the contribu tions of genetics to a variety of diseases and societal conditions. Wi th genetic testing now easily conducted with lowered costs in nonmedic al domains, a variety of privacy issues must be considered. Such testi ng will result in the loss of significant privacy rights for the indiv idual. Society must now consider such issues as the ownership of genet ic data, confidentiality rights to such information, limits placed on genetic screening, and legislation to control genetic testing and its applications. There is often a conflict between individual rights to p rivacy and the need for societal protection.