Ethical and social issues of genetic screeningSpec 2.18
In short
Genetic screening raises ethical and social questions, which can be discussed from different viewpoints. Religious views differ on the status of the embryo and on termination. Moral arguments weigh the right to know and to choose against the value of every life. Social issues include cost, discrimination and pressure on parents.
To discuss the ethical and social issues, identify the issue, set out arguments on each side from different viewpoints, and reach a reasoned conclusion. The issues come from the fact that screening gives information about people, and about embryos and fetuses that cannot consent.
| Viewpoint | In favour of screening | Against, or concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Religious | Some traditions allow screening to prepare for, or prevent, severe suffering, and to allow informed choices. | Many traditions hold that life is sacred from conception, so discarding embryos in PGD or terminating a pregnancy is wrong. Views differ between and within religions. |
| Moral | Respect for autonomy: parents have the right to information and to choose. Avoiding the suffering of a child with a severe disorder. | Every life has equal value, including that of a person with a disorder. Embryos may have a right to life. Screening could lead to selection of embryos for other traits (so-called designer babies). |
| Social | Reduces the number of children born with serious conditions, and reduces demand on families and health services. | Pressure on parents to screen and terminate; stigma towards people living with the condition; cost and unequal access; discrimination by insurers or employers using genetic information; privacy of genetic data. |
- Who should have access to the results (the individual, family members, employers, insurers)?
- Should screening be offered for all disorders, including those with late onset or with mild effects?
- How should genetic counselling be provided to help people understand the results and the options?
A discuss answer needs both sides and the named viewpoints (religious, moral and social). Avoid giving a personal opinion without reasons. A balanced conclusion earns credit, such as 'screening is justified for severe disorders, provided counselling and consent are given'.
Do not assume that all religious people share one view. Say 'some religious groups' or 'many religious traditions' to stay accurate.
Quick check
What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?
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Genotype is the alleles an organism has; phenotype is its observable characteristics.
What is codominance?
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Both alleles are expressed in the phenotype of a heterozygote.
Why is red-green colour blindness more common in males?
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The allele is recessive and on the X chromosome; males have only one X, so one copy is expressed.
Name the protein that is faulty in cystic fibrosis.
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The CFTR protein, a chloride ion channel in cell-surface membranes.
Name two methods of prenatal testing.
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Amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS).
Written and checked against the Edexcel International A Level Biology (YBI11) specification · Updated October 2026