Monday, December 9, 2013
The Rise of Genomic Data Sharing
Each year the amount of information about humans increases as scientific research increases. Lately, a huge hit amongst human beings is figuring out their own genomic sequences so that they may better themselves or be more prepared to what their futures hold. This article explains how this can be a useful tool, but we should still "proceed with caution." This warning is due to the fact that scientists, as well as this author, are predicting that one's genomic data can be leaked- allowing our government to one day be able to possibly use this information against us in a plethora of ways. I found it to be a bit alarming that this information could be used against us, for example if insurance providers knew how much of a liability you were, health wise, then they might be more reluctant to provide you with their insurance. There are many different outcomes, each with it's own pro's and con's.
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It's a shame that while trying to find out more about ourselves we have to wonder if certain information gets into the wrong hands can be used against us. I think if you want to test your genes and see if you have a predisposition for cancer to experience life to the fullest extent while your healthy the government shouldn't be involved in figuring out ways to hold it against you. Cancer and diseases are scary enough without worrying whose hands your genetic information falls in.
ReplyDeleteIt would be really great for people to have their history and risk percentage for every disease in their hands on a daily basis. Although, for it to fall into the wrong hands would be very disappointing and invasive. The leak could also help others to gain personal information; eventually, access to bank accounts and such. I think there is a way, or many, to prevent this "leak" from happening, especially if they can do it from something simple as a smartphone or internet-based.
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