DNA Fingerprinting

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Should all newborn babies have their DNA fingerprint stored on a central database?
DNA fingerprinting is a process that has been subject to widespread debate ever since it has come into practise. Fingerprinting involves identifying and creating an image of a person’s genetic information. As each individual carries their own DNA fingerprint—meaning that no two will ever be the same—it is often used for identification purposes and can produce a very reliable, if not indisputable result. This makes the DNA fingerprinting very useful within the field of forensics, as well as in paternity testing and law enforcement. Despite its various uses, the debate goes on about the usage of the process. Many are concerned about their right to privacy, with DNA being an incredibly personal thing. What if the database containing this information was hacked, or forms another type of discrimination? Currently, Australia stores the DNA profiles of samples collected by the Australian police, including samples found at crime scenes, from convicted offenders, suspects, missing persons and unidentified deceased persons on the National Criminal Investigation DNA Database (NCIDD) (CrimTrac 2011). Similar databases are held around the world. Therefore, the question remains, would there be purpose in storing the DNA fingerprint of all newborn babies on a central database, to creating a database storing all of a populations genetic information, similar to that of the NCIDD?
DNA, short for deoxyribonucleic acid, determines the function and structure of all living things. The molecule is made up of many nucleotides, structures that consist of a deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group and a nitrogen base (either adenine, cytosine, thymine or guanine). The nucleotide...

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...suring the process does not cross moral boundaries, the fingerprinting at birth in aim to create a database would be advantageous in various areas. These areas include law enforcement, paternity testing and increasing safety of citizens. However, as it has been noted that fingerprinting is not an indisputable measure than once thought, is the risk of misidentification worth taking knowing it has led so serious issues including wrongful imprisonment?
I believe that the creation of a database would be valuable. However, the use of the database should regulated and restricted to the use of government agencies (being the police, etc.) or in medical situations. Before definitive decisions have been made regarding such a thing being formed, public opinion should be evaluated and law should be put into place ensuring that use of the database does not get out of control.

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