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In Australia, genetic screening is carried out on newborn babies - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 8
In Australia, genetic screening is carried out on newborn babies. a. Explain why it is important to have a genetic screening program for newborn babies. b. State... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In Australia, genetic screening is carried out on newborn babies - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why it is important to have a genetic screening program for newborn babies.
Answer
Genetic screening programs for newborn babies are critical for several reasons. First, they enable early detection of genetic disorders, allowing for timely medical intervention which can significantly affect the child's health outcomes. Early treatments can prevent the progression of conditions, ensuring better quality of life for affected children.
Second, these programs provide valuable information to parents about potential health risks their child may face, enabling informed decisions regarding further care and lifestyle choices. Additionally, understanding genetic predispositions can aid in prenatal care for future pregnancies.
Step 2
State two ethical implications of the genetic screening of newborn babies.
Answer
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Confidentiality of Genetic Data: One major ethical implication concerns who has access to the data obtained from genetic screenings. Parents and infants' rights to privacy must be safeguarded to prevent discrimination or stigma based on genetic information.
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Informed Consent and Autonomy: There is an ethical obligation to ensure that parents give informed consent for genetic screening. Parents should understand the implications of the tests, including potential psychological impacts and the moral considerations regarding the decisions made based on the screening results.