Genetic discrimination still casts a large shadow in 2022
Yann Joly, Gratien Dalpé
Abstract
Genetic discrimination (GD) is not new. It is usually understood as a type of discrimination based on genetic characteristics that is intended to infringe or has the effect of infringing on human rights, fundamental freedoms, and human dignity [ 1 ]. Like sexual, ethnic, or disability-based discrimination, GD can be a source of exclusion. It may limit a person’s social and professional opportunities and lead to psychological, social, and economic disadvantage and distress [ 2 ]. The first cases of GD surfaced in the fields of personal insurance and employment in the United States in the late 1970s. Since then, many countries in America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania have adopted laws to prevent this kind of discrimination. In low- and middle-income countries with less capacity to perform genetic tests on a broad scale and facing pressing health and economic challenges, non-GD laws are rarely a priority [ 3 ].