Chris Dodd: “over the past decade, the science of genetics has developed at an astonishing pace. The mapping of the human genome is…”

“over the past decade, the science of genetics has developed at an astonishing pace. The mapping of the human genome is undoubtedly one of the greatest scientific achievements of my lifetime. We have not even completely grasped the wide array of potential benefits that may come from our newfound genetic knowledge. Certainly, the impact on our health will be profound. Doctors will be able to read our unique genetic blueprints and predict the likelihood of developing diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's. They will also be able to use an individual's genetic information to develop treatments for these same diseases and target individuals with the treatment that will work best for them. This is not science fiction--it is already beginning to happen. For all the promise of the genetic age, there is also an inherent threat. Science has outpaced the law and Americans are worried, and rightly so, that their genetic information will be used, not to improve their health, but to deny them health insurance or employment. There is no information more personal and private than genetic information and no information more worthy of special protection. Our genetic code is the very blueprint of ourselves. It is with us from birth, and to some extent it determines who we will become. What an incredibly powerful tool, with its vast potential to help us live healthier lives.…”