Genetic Testing to Reunite Immigrant Families Raises Issues of Privacy and Consent

Genetic Testing to Reunite Immigrant Families Raises Issues of Privacy and Consent

6 years ago
Anonymous $cyhBy-qkd5

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/genetic-testing-to-reunite-immigrant-families-raises-issues-of-privacy-and-consent/

Several DNA testing companies have volunteered their services to help reunite immigrant families separated at the southern U.S. border.

But scientists and ethicists warn broad-based genetic tests are “overkill” and do not make sense for making such matches. Instead, if the government really needs help accurately reuniting immigrant families, it should consider a more basic paternity or maternity test, several say. Regardless of the test used, issues of privacy and consent need to be taken into account, experts say.