Advocacy

ASHG reaffirms its commitment to the fundamental principle of reproductive freedom and unequivocally declares its opposition to coercive efforts to restrict that freedom based on the misuse of genetic information. Related: Statement on Eugenics and the Misuse of Genetic Information to Restrict Reproductive Freedom (February 1999) Read More

In 1999, the National Bioethics Advisory Commission requested feedback on current regulations, practices, and ethical issues related to the use of human biological materials in research. ASHG commented on many of the recommendations in the NBAC’s draft document and provided additional expertise. Related: ASHG Response to NBAC on the Ethical Issues and Policy Concerns Surrounding... Read More

Behavioral genetics brings to light both genetic and environmental influences on behavior. ASHG commented on the state of this field, including recent accomplishments, future directions, and methods, in a 1997 statement. Related: Statement: Developments in Human Behavioral Genetics: Past Accomplishments and Future Directions (June 1997) Read More

Most traits are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. In a 1995 background statement, ASHG considers how genetic testing results should be used in insurance, if at all, as well as associated ethical and policy questions. Related: ASHG Background Statement on Genetic Testing and Insurance (January 1995) Read More

In 2000, recognizing the potential for increased use of genetic testing in adoption, ASHG and the American College of Medical Genetics issued recommendations for its use in newborns and children, keeping the best interests of the child paramount. This followed a brief 1991 report on points to consider related to genetics and adoption. Related: Statement... Read More