Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Genomics Research
This topic explores the profound ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) arising from advances in genomics, a critical frontier in bioethics for Zambian tertiary education. It covers the application and dilemmas of genetic testing, including prenatal diagnosis, newborn screening, and predictive testing for conditions like Huntington's disease and BRCA-related cancers. Students will engage with contentious issues such as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), genetic discrimination, privacy concerns, and the ownership of genetic information. The module also addresses broader societal questions related to biobanks, forensic DNA use, and genetic modification. For university and college students in Zambia, understanding these ELSI is crucial for future roles in clinical genetics, public health policy, research ethics committees, and law. It equips learners to critically evaluate the benefits and risks of genomic technologies in diverse cultural and resource-limited settings, ensuring responsible advancement of science for Zambian society.
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