NPR Story about Gene Sequencing

[MrsK]

http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2012...heir-own-genes

I'm posting this in debates just in case discussion about it becomes controversal. I heard this story on NPR yesterday and I was so absorbed that I missed my exit. I thought that some of you would enjoy reading/hearing it too. Among other things, it talks about how gene sequencing could affect some routine medical exams and treatments. I'd love to hear your thoughts.

[SoonerTexan]

That would be a tough one...I'm not sure I'd always want to know. Reminds me of Gattica.

[poky]

I'd love to know my various risks and such...but the bit about the life insurance and long-term-care insurance gives me pause.

[GreyhoundsRUs]

That would be a tough one...I'm not sure I'd always want to know. Reminds me of Gattica.

I agree. There is something to be said about not knowing certain things. I think it was a Scrubs episode where they alluded to the fact that if you run enough tests/scans, you're going to find something.

[MsSassyBaskets]

This is a big topic in cancer treatment. Our genes play a large role in the types of cancers we develop and the effectiveness of certain treatments. What works for one cancer patient won't necessarily work for another because of genetics. If a genetic test can tell you that one cancer treatment over another is more likely to work--and save your life--I think it's fantastic. Also, if someone could have told my parents when I was a baby that I had celiac disease and saved me 26 years of discomfort, fatigue, malnutrition, and higher risk of lymphoma and osteoporosis, I'd thank them.

I understand there can be downsides, but I tend to side with scientific progress.

[MrsSz]

Reminds me of Gattica.

I haven't thought about this movie in YEARS!!!

Just a random FYI hahah