the future of genetic testing
Projectthe future of genetic testing
ClientLeuven University Hospital
Project aimto explore and envision possible future social impacts of genetic testing technologies
startedSeptember, 2007
finalizationMay, 2011
Time horizon2030
Genetic testing technologies (aka arrays) are increasing in number, abilities and availability. Moreover the increasing amount of data they produce is fostering a significant growth in diagnostic insight. What will this mean in terms of societal impact in a number of years as access to and usage of genetic testing will become ever more mundane? 

What will it mean in terms of who has/can have access to the information? What about the right not to know? How will people deal with genetic risk profiles? etc. A wave of questions is unleashed as soon as the topic is touched upon. More than enough reason to dig deeper into this issue and prepare for a fruitful debate. It is with this intention in mind that the Genetic Center of the University Hospital of the Catholic University of Leuven, leader of a research project among various genetic centers in Flanders, turned to Pantopicon. 

After framing the scope of the societal debate, Pantopicon set out to chart the various future challenges concerning the theme as identified by both experts and lay people. Future scenarios will be developed in order to stimulate and guide debate.