Work

Research Issues in Genetic Testing of Adolescents for Obesity

Year: 2004

Type: article

Abstract: Obesity is often established in adolescence, and advances are being made in identifying its genetic underpinnings. We examine issues related to the eventual likelihood of genetic tests for obesity targeted to adolescents: family involvement; comprehension of the test's meaning; how knowledge of genetic status may affect psychological adaptation; minors' ability to control events; parental/child autonomy; ability to make informed medical decisions; self-esteem; unclear distinctions between early/late onset for this condition; and social stigmatization. The public health arena will be important in educating families about possible future genetic tests for obesity.

Source: Nutrition Reviews

DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2004.tb00056.x

Authors: Mary E. Segal, Pamela Sankar, Danielle R. Reed

Institutions: University of Pennsylvania, Monell Chemical Senses Center

Language: English

Topic: Ethics and Legal Issues in Pediatric Healthcare

Subfield: Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases