Americans today face difficult ethical, legal, medical and social challenges as discoveries in genetic science offer expanding opportunities and complex choices. Almost every week the media report new applications for genetic testing and engineering.

Consider these facts:

• Every year 20 million samples of human DNA are being added to U.S. tissue banks in hospitals, research laboratories, medical schools and biotechnology and drug companies.
• Insurance company spokespeople have confirmed that they will use genetic information in underwriting.
• No federal law exists limiting the ability of employers to collect, use or disclose genetic information about their employees.
• Several states in the U.S. conduct DNA testing on everyone arrested regardless of the crime with which they have been charged or whether they are convicted.
• Less than half of Americans over the age of 18 know anything about DNA.

How do we harness the extraordinary potential benefits of this technology while ensuring that its power doesn’t produce disturbing consequences? Geneforum takes a uniquely democratic approach to providing answers in tune with the values and aspirations of the general populace.

Geneforum is a non-profit founded in Oregon in 1998. The organization's mission is to promote civic discourse about genetics through public education, engagement and consultation. Geneforum envisions a future in which science benefits humankind, without compromising individual liberties or discriminating against groups of people.