Genetic Discrimination and Mental Illness: a Case Report

Overview

Journal J Med Ethics

Publisher BMJ Publishing Group

Specialty Medical Ethics

Date 2001 Dec 4

PMID 11731603

Citations 10

Authors

J G Wong

F Lieh-Mak

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

With advances in genetic technology, there are increasing concerns about the way in which genetic information may be abused, particularly in people at increased genetic risk of developing certain disorders. In a recent case in Hong Kong, the court ruled that it was unlawful for the civil service to discriminate in employment, for the sake of public safety, against people with a family history of mental illness. The plaintiffs showed no signs of any mental health problems and no genetic testing was performed. This was the first case concerning genetic discrimination in common law jurisdictions, therefore the court's judgment has implications for how genetic discrimination cases may be considered in the future. The court considered it inappropriate to apply population statistics or lifetime risks to individuals while examining fitness for work. It recommended an individualised assessment of specific risks within the job, relative to other risks posed by that workplace.

Citing Articles

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Genetic discrimination: introducing the Asian perspective to the debate.

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