I think there is a wide misperception about how the information is used. To my knowledge, there has not been a single case of insurance discrimination based upon genetic information. Regardless of how much discrimination is currently going on, the potential exists for more in the future. Most experts can agree that regardless of how much discrimination is currently going on, the potential exists for more in the future, as genetic testing becomes less expensive and more widespread. They also agree that fear of discrimination is a major problem and that the best solution is increased education efforts and passing better discrimination protection laws.
Bombard is particularly concerned about people foregoing valuable testing.
In my experience, some women will refuse testing for the breast cancer gene despite her family history, due to fear. We doctors need to educate people about this. People don't understand it, so they are fearful. If people aren't willing to use the information, they will never be able to get truly preventive care. She predicts major changes ahead because we won't just be talking about a few rare diseases.