MCAT Biochemistry Question 88: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 88

13. Which of the following is an ethical concern of gene sequencing?

  • A. Gene sequencing is invasive, thus the potential health risks must be thoroughly explained.
  • B. Gene sequencing impacts relatives, thus privacy concerns may be raised.
  • C. Gene sequencing is very inaccurate, which increases anxiety related to findings.
  • D. Gene sequencing can provide false-negative results, giving a false sense of security.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

One of the primary ethical concerns related to gene sequencing is the issue of consent and privacy. Because genetic screening provides information on direct relatives, there are potential violations of privacy in communicating this information to family members who may be at risk. There are not significant physical risks, eliminating choice (A), and gene sequencing is fairly accurate, eliminating choices (C) and (D).

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