Reproductive genetic testing: What America thinks

Abstract

This report explores public attitudes towards the use and regulation of reproductive genetic testing, including carrier testing, prenatal genetic diagnosis, and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). A series of focus groups, interviews, and surveys conducted by the Genetics and Public Policy Center revealed that while Americans generally support using reproductive genetic tests to prevent fatal childhood diseases, they are wary of using them to select for traits like intelligence or strength. Public opinion on using these technologies to identify risks for adult-onset diseases is mixed. The report also finds a strong desire for oversight in the area of reproductive genetic testing, though opinions on how regulation should be implemented and who should control it vary widely. The study emphasizes the need for further research to understand the complex ethical and societal implications of reproductive genetic technologies.