28 September 2007

BASES position stand on genetic research and testing

Scientists Highlight Benefits Of Genetic Research In Sport, But Warn Of Ethical Concerns, UK@medical news today

Genetic research into athletic ability should be encouraged for its potential benefits in both sport and public health, a leading group of scientists meeting at the University of Bath said recently.

They highlight two dangers of genetic performance tests. Firstly, genetic performance tests might later be linked to disease. For example, a muscle growth gene may later be linked to cancer growth.

Secondly, genetic performance tests can be performed even before birth and this may lead to the selection of foetuses or to abortions based on athletic potential.

The report recommends that genetic testing should be used for anti-doping testing as long as the genetic samples are destroyed after testing.

Click here to read the executive summary or the whole position stand

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