The Human Genome Project

The Human Genome Project

The human genome project was designed in 1990 as a scientific

undertaking in which the end result would be a complete mapping of the

100,000 human genes and their purpose in the creation of an individual

(Khoury and Dorman, 1998). Since the beginning of the human genome

project, there have been many discoveries related to causative factors

of congenital disorders, as well as the discovery of genetic

predisposition for chronic disorders, such as diabetes and Alzheimer’s

(Zimmern, 1999). Though these findings have given the world

remarkable insight into the causative factors for various diseases,

there are many legal, ethical, and social issues, as well as the

impact on health care and health promotion that must be dealt with.

There are several legal or political issues regarding knowledge of a

person’s genetic make-up, such as to whom would it be available. Will

insurance provider’s and employers be aloud access to a person’s

genetic information? If such information is shared with these

institutions, it allows for the possibility that individuals may be

refused based on this information (Khoury and Dorman, 1998). Also,

there must be federal legislature determining appropriate use of

genetic information. As of right now, the state legislature controls

this issue and the laws vary from state to state (Khoury and Dorman,

1998). This may cause future problems within the legal system once

this information becomes available.

There are also various social issues which must be addressed regarding

the use of genetic information to determine risk for possible

disease. A Gallop poll conducted in 1998 showed that 93% of people

wish to be consented before allowing the government to research their

genetic makeup (Khoury and Dorman, 1998). This information proves

that most individuals wish to keep their genetic information private

for fear of genetic discrimination. Also, there is a risk that a

person’s genetic information may fall into the wrong hands. Until

regulations are placed, society may not be ready to handle such