Knowra Genetic privacy Genetic privacy Genetic privacy is the protection of information about a person’s genetic characteristics and biological relationships from unwanted access, use, or disclosure.
Genetic data : Information derived from DNA, genes, or genetic testing, including sequences, variants, and inferred traits. These records are the information genetic privacy seeks to control.
Direct-to-consumer genetic testing : Genetic testing sold directly to consumers, often for ancestry, health traits, or carrier status. These services place genetic data in commercial databases beyond ordinary clinical care.
Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act : A United States federal law that restricts use of genetic information in health insurance and employment. It limits certain discriminatory uses but does not provide comprehensive genetic-data privacy.
Genetic exceptionalism : The view that genetic information warrants distinct treatment because of its predictive, familial, or enduring qualities. It explains why genetic privacy is sometimes treated differently from other health privacy.
De-identification : The removal or alteration of identifying information in data to reduce the chance of linking it to individuals. Removing names may not protect genetic records that can be reidentified through matching.
Genetic research : The study of genetic variation and its relationships to traits, disease, ancestry, or biological processes. Research uses can involve storing, sharing, and reusing participants’ genetic records.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act : A United States law establishing privacy and security requirements for protected health information held by covered entities and business associates. Its protections depend on who holds the data and may not cover consumer testing companies.
Right not to know : The ethical claim that people may decline information about their health or genetic risks. Testing or disclosure can reveal risks a person did not wish to learn.
Genetic genealogy : The use of genetic data and family records to investigate ancestry and biological relationships. A database match can expose relatives who never submitted their own DNA.
Clinical genetics : The medical specialty that applies genetic knowledge to diagnosis, risk assessment, and care. Clinical testing creates sensitive records that may affect patients and their families.
Show all 23