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Because "just information" can be incredibly damaging in lots of ways. This is why most ethical systems include guidelines for determining when it is okay to sh
by joshuacc 12y ago
Because "just information" can be incredibly damaging in lots of ways. This is why most ethical systems include guidelines for determining when it is okay to share information with others and when it is not.
In this particular case, the FDA appears to be concerned that 23andMe are essentially providing the sort of information known as "medical advice" without sufficient context. And (regardless of whether they are correct in this case) that sort of thing can be dangerous.
- jrapdx3 12y agoAt least two issues involved. You are right about the "context" of the information. Test results need to be shared with the individual by a trained genetics counselor. Interpreting genetic results requires knowledge of the subject and ability to express complex and emotionally charged information in a sensitive and ethically appropriate way. Not much fudge room there. Another aspect is FDA standards of procedures and accuracy of test results for genetic conditions (where gene frequencies are known). Presumably 23andMe would have show that it meets those standards in order to provide the related results. Most likely to be more trouble than it's worth to them.