Review by Choice Review
One only need glance at a newspaper, watch the evening news, or listen to talk radio to see how the previously obscure field of genetics has projected into today's headlines. Biotechnology expert Andrews clearly establishes that genetics will change all of our lives in the future--and this change may not necessarily be a positive one. The author describes how ill-prepared the medical community is when it comes to ordering genetic tests, interpreting their meaning, and then communicating those findings to the individual or family when decisions need to be made. The book details how the results of genetic testing can be used to discriminate against certain individuals based on their genetic make-up. In addition, the specter of intrusion into this most private area of our lives by the government, insurance companies, and employers is well described. Useful to anyone who is now or will be involved in some aspect of genetic testing. All levels. R. G. McGee Jr. Walters State Community College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
Andrews, a law professor, explores the implications and complications of advancements in genetics that potentially clash with our current values and expectations. What happens when science can identify genes associated with certain incurable diseases? What impact does that identification have on the abortion issue? What happens if your sibling is a carrier and it reflects that you are a carrier as well? What rights does a dead person have to his own DNA? Andrews shows the dangers associated with genetic studies that impact the individual's right to insurance, employment, and rights of privacy and the indirect impact on the rights of spouses, siblings, children, and family members. Andrews points out current and potential bias associated with race and sex. In addition to raising such important questions, the author applies various conceptual models in addressing issues born of genetic technologies, including a medical model, a public health model, and a fundamental rights model. However, such models and application reflect cultural values for which there is no consensus. Still, Andrews' book provides thoughtful insights to help address these issues. --Vernon Ford
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
With the recently announced mapping of the human genome, the era of genetics is upon us. But how will this new information affect our decisions regarding genetic testing and treatment, especially if, as Andrews maintains, our ability to diagnose genetic diseases has outstripped both our ability to treat them and our related social policy? A scholar of science and law and an advisor to the National Institutes of Health, Andrews (Body Bazaar) offers a dry but insightful glimpse of the future, by examining three discrete policy models to determine which may be best suited for genetic testing. Andrews maintains that, currently, such decisions are being made by the "medical model," which stresses individual patient decisions but leaves patients too poorly informed to make good decisions. The "public health model," which is based on widespread educational campaigns or legally mandated acts such as vaccinations, is also inappropriate, because genetic diseases are not necessarily a public health problem. Moreover, mandatory screening could leave those who test positive discriminated against by employers and insurers. Instead, Andrews advocates a "fundamental rights model" that would empower the patient and ensure the high quality of health care services by requiring informed consent. Our goal now, she argues, should be to secure "an informed and knowledgeable health care provider base." The author then goes on to consider specific problems in genetic policy (e.g., the impact of negative test results, or the impact of genetic testing on minorities) under this plan. With its rather technical emphasis on how genetics will influence society and impact an individual psychologically, the book's primary audience will be policy makers, industry experts, physicians and public health officials. (Apr.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by Library Journal Review
Andrews (law, Chicago-Kent Coll. of Law; The Clone Age), a world-renowned expert on genetic and reproductive technology, provides a fascinating look here at genetic screening. Rather than concentrate on the extreme possibilities that are often touted by the media, she aptly illustrates the subtle and very frightening ways that genetic screening is already affecting society, particularly women, ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. The author contends that U.S. policymakers have not satisfactorily addressed the issues surrounding genetic technology and suggests a framework that will help to develop adequate protection for individuals and specific groups in these sensitive areas. Her extensive notes will provide useful background information for researchers. Although there are numerous publications about this broad topic, Andrews's legal insight and her ability to look beyond the superficial issues provide a breath of fresh air. Highly recommended for academic, medical, and legal collections. Tina Neville, Univ. of South Florida at St. Petersburg Lib. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Choice Review
Review by Booklist Review
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Review by Library Journal Review
