Ethical dilemmas of non-invasive prenatal genetic diagnosis using cell-free fetal DNA technology: An appraisal of the first ten years since its introduction in medical practice
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Abstract
Introduction: In 2011 a non-invasive screening test based on the analysis of cell-free DNA (cf-DNA) in pregnant women’s blood has been introduced into clinical practice and has rapidly revolutioned the world of prenatal genetic diagnosis (PGD).
Methods: A literature search to identify the articles published in the last 10 years focusing on blood cf-DNA and the ethical issues associated to it has been carried out.
Results: The literature review resulted in 26 articles matching the research criteria. The main ethical issues highlighted were concerns for informed consent, increase rate of abortion, disclosure of incidental genetic findings, and discriminatory practices for people with congenital diseases and disability. Conclusions: cf-DNA screening test should be limited to cases deemed strictly necessary to protect women and future children’s health. Right of making individual choices should be respected but crucial remains to prevent discrimination, respect human dignity, and avoid the diffusion of a eugenic mentality.
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