Genetic discrimination and the law
Abstract
The use of genetic tests can lead to genetic discrimination, discrimination based solely on the nature of an individual's genotype. Instances of the discriminatory uses of genetic tests by employers and insurance companies have already been reported. The recently enacted Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), together with other federal and state laws, can be used to combat some forms of this discrimination. In this article we define and characterize genetic discrimination, discuss the applicability of the various relevant federal and state laws, including the ADA, in the areas of employment and insurance discrimination, explore the limitations of these laws, and, finally, suggest some means of overcoming these limitations.
Comment in
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Genetic distinctions are not necessarily examples of genetic discrimination.Am J Hum Genet. 1992 Oct;51(4):897-9. Am J Hum Genet. 1992. PMID: 1415234 Free PMC article. No abstract available.
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Genetic discrimination and insurance underwriting.Am J Hum Genet. 1992 Oct;51(4):901-5. Am J Hum Genet. 1992. PMID: 1415236 Free PMC article. No abstract available.
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