Promise & Perils of Biotechnology: Genetic Testing; PAL

Genetic tests are becoming more prevalent but it is far from clear how test results impact upon the individuals affected, their families and the social structure they depend on. This moving documentary profiles three such people: a young woman with a family history of Huntington disease who decides to be tested, and a woman and her young daughter who have changed their lifestyles to counteract familial hypercholesterolemia. The video captures their struggle with the reality of their conditions, and the ethical, legal and social dilemmas that confront them. The video is accompanied by a 32-page Teacher's Guide that complements and expands upon the ethical issues addressed in the video, and includes background information about genetic disorders, related education/support organizations, student activities, a glossary and a reference list. Ideal for classes in human genetics at all levels.