Why Doctors Should Intervene

Informed Consent in Predictive Genetic Testing

“…In genetics, having a certain gene or genotype does not always translate into specific symptoms or traits for each person. 58 Another important factor to remember is that most diseases are multifactorial, in that the disease takes into account several areas including family history and environmental responses. 59 Negative results carry the same weight.…”

“…However, other times external influences exhibit deception, weakened choices, and faulty reasoning. 58 The detrimental influences most often "subvert autonomous action by distorting individual choice through coercion or deception." 59 Beauchamp says that in research, individuals should be protected from discrimination, stigmatization, and other pressures.…”

“…57 Having a better sense of control and personal responsibility over an individual's health can assist in decision-making. 58 Second, the revised model emphasizes heterogeneous decisions and informational needs of each patient. This model is against unrealistic demands of specific and explicit uniform processes of informed consent, because each person has different values and requests.…”

“…57 The counselor can also ask about disclosure of results; does the patient want to know his Alzheimer's risk. 58 By focusing on genetic counseling and patient feedback mechanisms, the revised model should ensure appropriate decision making.…”

“…57 The Code is typically recognized as the beginning of informed consent. 58 Requiring voluntary and free consent, the Code says that the individual needs enough information and understanding in order to make an informed decision. 59 These guidelines tried to provide increased attention on the dignity of research subjects when making decisions, but Dolgin and Shepherd suggest that the patient's decisions and consent will not be protected appropriately unless researchers adopt these obligations.…”