Social and Ethical Implications of Integrating Precision Medicine into Healthcare

Abstract

Precision Medicine with the use of genomic information can provide tailored screening and prevention strategies in healthcare if it is used in combination with Family History and other environmental factors. As such, implementation of PM requires diverse genomic data, to develop optimal methods for information delivery for all, not just for people from European ancestry as observed today. However, in order to increase public participation, there is a need for building trust amongst the public through increasing their understanding about the significance of genomics in improving health and the urgent need for global participation in genomics research and data sharing. Critical issues that are raised by the limited knowledge of genetic testing and genomics such as overestimation of developing a disease, unnecessary worry, anxiety, risk, and expense need to be addressed. Ethical, legal and social implications (ELSIs) related to genomics that need to be addressed are possible social and economic harms, such as discrimination, stigmatization, or marginalization of groups due to being difficult or expensive to treat. There is also the fear of inequitable distribution of therapies for all. This chapter looks at the various anticipated ELSIs, such as public knowledge and attitudes about PM, and approaches to address them.