Affiliations: [a] Department of Human Genetics, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA | [b] Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA | Georgetown University, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Suite 4100, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: John M. Quillin, Department of Human Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1101 E. Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23298-0033, USA. Tel.: +1 804 628 1925; Fax: +1 804 827 4100; E-mail: jquillin@mcvh-vcu.edu
Abstract: Genetic breast cancer susceptibility testing presents ethical challenges for healthcare providers and their patients. The familial aspects of genetic information, recognition of DNA as a shared history and present common thread for all people and widespread misunderstandings of genetic tests all contribute to these challenges. In this article an ethical framework internationally developed as a charter for medical professionalism is used to guide approaches to ethical dilemmas of breast cancer genetic testing. Specifically, three ethical principles are explored as they relate to testing: primacy of patient, patient autonomy, and social justice. Approaching breast cancer genetic testing from this framework could help to ensure thoughtful and ethical practices in this rapidly evolving field.
Keywords: Ethics, breast neoplasms, genetic screening, genetic counseling, professional role, predictive testing, hereditary breast cancer
DOI: 10.3233/BD-2007-27109
Journal: Breast Disease, vol. 27, no. 1, pp. 137-148, 2007
