Statement

11 Organizations Urge Cautious but Proactive Approach to Gene Editing

For Immediate Release Thursday, August 3, 2017 12:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time Media Contact: Nalini Padmanabhan ASHG Communications Manager 301.634.7346 press@ashg.org Medical, Research, and Counseling Groups Issue Statement on Germline Genome Editing BETHESDA, MD – An international group of 11 organizations with genetics expertise has issued a policy statement on germline genome editing in humans,... Read More

Protecting Genetic Privacy in Law Enforcement

Protecting Genetic Privacy in Law Enforcement

ASHG supports DNA profiling as a law enforcement tool to identify criminals and exonerate the innocent. The Society believes, however, that the use of DNA in those contexts must respect the public’s right to privacy and that DNA collection should be limited to those convicted of or reasonably suspected of having committed a serious crime.... Read More

Supporting Genetic Nondiscrimination in Canada

Supporting Genetic Nondiscrimination in Canada

In 2016, the Parliament of Canada debated bill S-201, the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act, which would ensure that all Canadians can benefit from genetics-based clinical advances without fear of genetic discrimination. ASHG has long supported the establishment of strong protections against genetic discrimination worldwide, and as such, advocated in favor of S-201. The bill was signed... Read More

Encouraging Licensure of Genetic Counselors

Encouraging Licensure of Genetic Counselors

ASHG supports state licensure of certified genetic counselors to help ensure that the public has access to genetic and genomic services provided by qualified health professionals. The rapidly expanding use of genomics in healthcare decisions will increase the need for qualified genetics professionals, and genetic counselors play an important role in treating patients and families.... Read More

Regulation of Laboratory-Developed Tests

Regulation of Laboratory-Developed Tests

In 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) invited comment on its draft guidance for the regulatory oversight of laboratory-developed tests (LDTs). With a focus on genetic and genomic testing, ASHG submitted comments on the proposed regulatory oversight of such tests. Related: Comments Submitted in Response to FDA’s Draft Guidance: Framework for Regulatory Oversight... Read More