Journal of Precision Biosciences
Biopharmaceuticals and medical sciences | Online ISSN 3064-9226
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Contents Vol 3 (1)

Ethical Considerations in the Implementation of Precision Personalized Medicine

Andrew Dickens 1, Dino Prato 2, Shamsuddin Sultan Khan 3*

+ Author Affiliations

Journal of Precision Biosciences 3 (1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/biosciences.3120040

Submitted: 08 January 2021 Revised: 23 March 2021  Published: 24 March 2021 

Abstract

Governments are increasingly investing in precision medicine (PM) to improve healthcare outcomes by utilizing data analytics and genomic analysis to develop individualized treatment plans. The success of PM relies heavily on clear public messaging that fosters trust and secures the social license to collect and exchange large population-wide datasets. However, the diverse terminologies used across various programs can complicate communication and undermine confidence in these efforts. Language plays a pivotal role in shaping expectations and creating a shared understanding of PM among participants, healthcare providers, and researchers. Personalized medicine, which emerged a decade ago, aims to prescribe the right medication to the right patient based on genetic information. While the medical field is evolving, the shift toward individualized care raises complex ethical challenges that require careful consideration. This review categorizes and examines the ethical issues surrounding PM, particularly in research, development, and service delivery. Our analysis highlights several critical ethical concerns, including healthcare service availability, informed consent, knowledge gaps, privacy, and confidentiality. Moreover, it is crucial to balance the benefits of advancing research and individual health improvements with societal good. As such, an ethical framework with clear rules and norms is essential, alongside ongoing, personalized ethical decision-making to ensure the responsible development and application of precision medicine.

Keywords: Ethics, Personalized medicine, Pharmacogenetics studies, Genetic data.

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