The news that they have the disease gene can lead to depression or anger. These emotions can impact the person and reverberate throughout the family. There is also concern about confidentiality. People have expressed concern that testing information could someday be used against them. As knowledge about the genetic basis of common disorders grows, so does the potential for discrimination in obtaining health or life insurance.
People also have concerns about discrimination in employment.
At the state and federal levels, legislation is being pursued to help ensure that genetic information is not used against people. In addition, as an example of state law, the State of California prohibits insurers, to varying degrees, from requiring or requesting genetic tests or their results, from denying coverage on the basis of genetic tests, and from using tests to determine rates and benefits. California law has provisions to protect the privacy of genetic information. However, in this time of flux and changing health care systems, it is not clear to what extent consumers are protected. People considering genetic testing need to consider potential risks for discrimination.