This is a very interesting article as we have all read about athletes and looking at their DNA, so instead of medical records in 4 years we might be digging though a candidate’s DNA. For the snoop and people type of publications this could get real interesting to see an agent pay off a waitress for a coffee cup that someone drank from, only to run it to the local genomics office to get the full details.
The last comments about CEOs is a bit entertaining as well, will the CEOs of the future need the right DNA to hold those positions? For that matter DNA might be telling all of us where we might be better placed, but there’s one big competitor here, astrology that might give DNA a run for it’s money. I mention all of this in jest, but in 4 years I don’t think any of us can offer a real suggestion as to where we will be as one breakthrough today seems to be changing more than one path of history, and we need computers to keep up with it. If a corporation is not making money would it lie in the fact that the CEO sequences didn’t fit the money gene? BD
In the coming era of personal genomics -- when we all can decode our genes cheaply and easily -- political candidates may be pressed to disclose their own DNA, like tax returns or lists of campaign contributors, as voters seek new ways to weigh a leader's medical and mental fitness for public office. The technology is advancing so quickly that the next generation of presidential hopefuls may be judged not just on the content of their character but also on the possibilities revealed in their genes, highlighting the tension between privacy and public life.
While medical records can be locked away, it's not so easy to control access to DNA samples. "It can be picked up from a coffee cup or a hairbrush," says Dr. Annas. "People can take a copy and decode that information and learn things about you that nobody else knows, including you." Only 10 states have laws that make it illegal for DNA to be analyzed without the donor's consent.
"In the future, should we ask CEOs for their genetic profiles? Maybe we should," says Dr. Allen, "if we believe this kind of testing could tell us something that would save shareholders money."
FYI there's a discussion going on about these issues now (Oct 27-Nov 3) at:
ReplyDeletewww.thenationaldialogue.org. Today is the last day, so don't miss your chance to add your comments.
It's called the National Dialogue on Health IT & Privacy. On the site, you can contribute ideas, and read and rate others' ideas. Watch in real time as the best ideas "rise to the top."
** The results of this online dialogue are being compiled into a report to the Federal CIO Council, Office of Management and Budget, and the incoming Administration by the National Academy of Public Administrators. **
Hope to see you there.
Maggie, The National Dialogue