28. Using examples, briefly describe two ethical dilemmas that arise from our ability to detect genetic disorders before or after birth.

Two ethical dilemmas arising from our ability to detect genetic disorders before or after birth are:<br /><br />1. **Selective Abortion:** Prenatal genetic testing can reveal potential genetic disorders in a fetus. This information empowers parents to make decisions about the pregnancy, including the option of terminating the pregnancy if a severe disorder is detected. This raises ethical questions about the value of life with a disability, reproductive autonomy, and the potential for discrimination against individuals with disabilities. For example, if a couple discovers their fetus has Down syndrome, they may face the difficult decision of whether to continue the pregnancy, knowing their child may face certain challenges. This decision is deeply personal and fraught with ethical considerations, as some may argue that terminating a pregnancy based on a genetic condition devalues the lives of individuals with that condition.<br /><br />2. **Privacy and Discrimination:** Genetic information is highly personal and can have implications beyond the individual. The results of genetic tests could potentially be used for discriminatory purposes by employers, insurance companies, or even family members. For example, if an individual tests positive for a gene associated with a higher risk of developing a particular disease later in life, this information could be used by insurance companies to deny coverage or charge higher premiums. This raises ethical concerns about privacy, informed consent, and the potential for genetic information to be used to stigmatize or discriminate against individuals. Furthermore, genetic information about one individual can reveal information about their relatives, raising questions about who has the right to access and control this information.<br />