Concern over DNA database access

September 17, 2007

Strict controls are needed to ensure genetic information collected for research is not used inappropriately by outside parties, experts have warned.

Many DNA databases have been collated for specific studies on genes and disease, a British Society of Human Genetics meeting in York heard. But pressure from other researchers to access the data puts patient anonymity at risk, experts warned. Safeguards to protect patient data are imperative, speakers said. (BBC NEWS)