The gene genie.

This programme reports on genetic testing, which can reveal susceptibility to illness and disease, and looks at the possible pros and cons of such genetic tests. Genetic tests for example, can tell women if they have a very high chance of getting breast cancer, or if people carry the gene for Sudden Death Syndrome, which can lead to heart failure. Scientists can now screen out genetic imperfections such as these through in vitro fertilisation. Tests can also tell people if they carry genes such as the one causing Fragile X syndrome, a learning disability. Health insurers in the United States have stopped insurance of people who have tested positive for such genetic disabilities, so there is a worry that testing may result in a 'genetic underclass' in terms of healthcare provision. There is much debate surrounding testing for genetic disabilities, as some doctors claim it could result in eugenics. [Cataloguer's note - over 3 minutes of blank tape before programme begins]