BRIGHT NOW ARCHIVE

June 25, 2007

Designer Babies Stemming From Embryo Screening

BRCA, the gene mutation that severely increases one's risk of breast and ovarian cancer, affects those with a family history of cancer. The gene increases one's risk of developing breast cancer by 60 to 80 percent and ovarian cancer by up to 60 percent. Due to technological advances in science, it is now possible to screen embryos and decipher whether or not the child has the gene mutation and will be at high risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Thus, families who are genetically predisposed can select embryos that do not carry the BRCA mutated gene. This technological advancement is extremely controversial from an ethical standpoint. Many argue that it is immoral because it destroys currently healthy embryos. The children, despite having a heightened risk for cancer, will be born healthy and have no guarantee of developing cancer. Thus, critics of embryo screening argue that the technology is leading to the common establishment "designer babies". Designer babies are those that are screened and chosen based off looks, intelligence, and health. However, those in support of the technology contend that the screening will prevent their children from a hereditary and debilitating genetic inheritance. If the technology becomes common practice, the inherited disease and gene mutations will be eliminated. What do you think of genetic screening for the BRCA gene? Post your thoughts, feelings, and questions in our forum!

All the best!
Lindsay
Lindsay@BeBrightPink.org

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