In the 21st century we have tremendous amounts of genetic data and analysis, and those data are used in medicine every day. But only some people can have access to or do anything with this knowledge. There is a patchwork of coverage across the United States. Depending on which state someone lives in, a genetic predisposition for cancer can either be a death sentence or a guide to proper preventive care.
Insurance coverage should not determine whether a person gets tested and treated. Access to genetic information is a matter of social justice. Preventing cancer is a matter of life or death.
Read the full, original story: Is Your State Legislature Waiting for You to Get Cancer?
Additional Resources:
- Don’t Count On Insurance To Pay For Genetic Tests, NPR
- Angelina Jolie fallout: Should counseling be required with DNA screenings?, Genetic Literacy Project
