Genetic Testing: Deb's Autonomy and Preparedness

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I believe Deb should get genetic testing done for a few reasons. First of all the test would allow Deb to prepare and start to limit a potential disease. In the story it states that "at some point Deb would like to know her Cancer risk." That statement leads me to believe she would like the test conducted at some point as that's one of the few ways she can find out her risk. I feel the bioethical principal that represents this situation is the respect for patients principle. It is entirely up to Deb if she wants to have the test completed and no one should try to influence her decision. I also like to think if a cancer gene is found in Deb she will start preparing be starting a possible treatment plan and also start financial planning for the disease as she will have to pay some money to have the …show more content…

As rough as it is to carry a cancerous gene having a test done early can not only limit the impact it may cause, but also allow Deb to plan for future children in which she may reconsider having due to a risk of passing this gene down. My final reason for why I believe Deb should be tested is so her sister and brother can also know if their sister has a risk of cancer they might as well. The story reads "Deb's sister and brother don't know if they want to know the results of a possible genetic test." A principle I feel Deb should follow at this point of the decision is the non male ficence principle. Even though Deb's brother and sister aren't for or against having Deb take the test they shouldn't harm her and hurt her for doing it. A scenario I feel that can happen is that Deb's sister and brother threaten to not stand by her and support her if she does have a genetic disease. To me that's harming Deb and is not letting her make the decision she wants. I believe no harm should be done to Deb for potentially taking the test. If Deb carries a cancerous gene, there is a significant chance her brother and sister carry it too as it's

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