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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Genomics, Insurance and Human Rights: Is There a Place for Regulatory Frameworks in Africa?
Author:Nmehielle, Vincent O.ISNI
Year:2006
Periodical:African Journal of Legal Studies (ISSN 1708-7384)
Volume:2
Issue:1
Period:April
Pages:20-34
Language:English
Geographic term:Africa
Subjects:genetics
health insurance
social and economic rights
Economics and Trade
Health and Nutrition
Miscellaneous (i.e. Demography, Refugees, Sports)
External link:https://doi.org/10.1163/221097312X13397499736381
Abstract:This article examines the human rights dimension of genetic discrimination in Africa, exploring the place of regulatory frameworks while taking into account the disadvantaged position of the average African. This is in response to the tendency of insurance companies toward making health insurance decisions on the basis of individual genetic information, which could result in genetic discrimination or health insurance discrimination based on a person's genetic profile. The author considers such questions as the intersection between human rights (right to life, health, privacy, human dignity and against genetic discrimination) in relation to the insurance industry, as well as the obligations of State and non-State actors to promote, respect, and protect the enjoyment of these rights. The article argues that African nations should not stand aloof in trying to balance the competing interests (scientific, economic and social) presented by the use of genetic information in the health care context and that ultimately it is the responsibility of States to develop domestic policies to protect their most vulnerable citizens and to prevent entrenched private discrimination based on an individual's genes. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]
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