Posted on 06/08/2009 6:39:56 AM PDT by Wolf13
Technological advancements have afforded many benefits to the pro-life cause. Ultrasound imaging has revealed the child in the womb as a living, feeling human being, and at earlier stages than previously thought possible. The widespread use of such technology helps explain significant shifts towards the pro-life position -- both in sentiment and in deed, especially among young Americans -- over the last fifteen years.
But medical technology has had some negative effects, too, especially for unborn babies with disabilities. Ultrasound imaging is routinely employed to discern genetic abnormalities in unborn children and to end the lives of those who fail to meet the standards of a culture that increasingly views genetic perfection as an entitlement.
This month, Sequenom, a company that makes genetic analysis products, was set to release a new genetic test for Down syndrome. The test, called SEQureDX, has been hailed by some as "the Holy Grail of genetic testing," because it is safer and more accurate than any previous prenatal genetic test. But once it hits the market, SEQureDX may become known for something far less inspiring: as a leading tool for the elimination of an entire class of people.
Currently, prenatal genetic testing involves a combination of blood tests and ultrasounds to determine whether an unborn child faces significant risk of having a disability. Some women undergo further testing to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. The most common test in amniocentesis, in which amniotic fluid is extracted from the amniotic sac surrounding the baby. Fetal DNA in the tissue contained in the fluid is then examined for genetic abnormalities.
(Excerpt) Read more at spectator.org ...
ping
Freepmail wagglebee or DirtyHarryY2K to subscribe or unsubscribe from the moral absolutes ping list.
FreeRepublic moral absolutes keyword search
Just wait until insurance companies try to use this test to deny coverage of Down Syndrome children because they were an “avoidable condition” which should have been aborted. Is a new diagnostic test really a benefit to society when there is no cure for the underlying condition other than the murder of the patient?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.