The ethical implications of genetic testing in neurodegenerative diseases: A systematic review

Autor: Arja Halkoaho, Sanna-Maria Nurmi, Anne M. Remes, Eino Solje, Jukka S. Moilanen
Rok vydání: 2020
Předmět:
Zdroj: Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences. 35:1057-1074
ISSN: 1471-6712
0283-9318
DOI: 10.1111/scs.12932
Popis: Background Availability of genetic testing in neurodegenerative disorders has developed rapidly. This growing ability is providing specific genetic information to individuals and, in turn, their families, raising ethical concerns. However, family members' perspective is a seldom-studied phenomenon. Aim The aim of this systematic review was to describe the ethical aspect of genetic testing in neurodegenerative diseases from the perspective of at-risk family members. Method A systematic review of data was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement. The data search was conducted using the CINAHL, PubMed and Scopus databases to identify original peer-reviewed studies published between January 2009 and April 2019. A total of 24 articles were selected. The data were analysed using inductive content analysis. Findings On the basis of the analysis, four central ethical implications were identified: (i) decision-making in genetic testing as a dilemma: balance between autonomy and responsibility, (ii) the individual's right to make a voluntary and informed decision for genetic testing, (iii) conflicting emotions after knowing one's genetic status and (iv) privacy and confidentiality of genetic information: the fear of genetic discrimination and stigma. Conclusions The findings of this review increase understanding about the central ethical implications of genetic testing in neurodegenerative diseases from the perspective of family members, and identify and underline outstanding needs for further research.
Databáze: OpenAIRE
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