Genetic analysis: only by prescription!
Genetic research without medical indications has been banned in GermanyThe Bundestag has approved a bill prohibiting anonymous research on paternity, as well as genetic studies of the fetus without medical indications.
The purpose of the new bill is to prevent possible abuse of modern methods of genetic research.
The approval of the bill was preceded by more than seven years of intense debate. According to the new rules, genetic studies to establish paternity will be allowed to be carried out only in medical institutions and with the written consent of all interested parties, except in cases of establishing the identity of the rapist or the fact of incest. Violation of these requirements will be punishable by a fine of up to 5 thousand euros.
The ban is also imposed on genetic studies of the fetus in order to establish its sex, or to identify the risk of genetically determined diseases that may develop in adulthood. Studies to identify genes associated with various diseases can be carried out only if there are medical indications.
German companies and insurance companies are prohibited from requiring the provision of genetic information from employees or customers. An exception is made for insurance claims, payments for which exceed 300 thousand euros, and for enterprises where work is associated with an increased risk to health.
German Health Minister Ulla Schmidt welcomed the new law, stressing that for the first time it establishes a mandatory framework for genetic research to ensure that patients' rights are respected.
Copper news based on the materials of Deutsche Welle: New German law restricts genetic testing Portal "Eternal youth" www.vechnayamolodost.ru