The Ethical, Legal and Psychosocial Implications of Genetic Testing in Adoption: A Review of the Current Evidence

Abstract

Genetic testing helps determine the risk an individual faces in developing genetic diseases. Understanding the risk can allow measures to be put in place to increase preparation for the potential onset of certain diseases. Adoptees and adopters are often provided with limited information on the mental and physical health of birth parents. Therefore, some individuals argue that genetic testing could provide adoptive parents with further information to better prepare for the health-related risks a child could face. Current United Kingdom (UK) and United States (US) guidance suggests that genetic testing should not take place for children unless timely medical intervention is likely to be required. This narrative synthesis aims to evaluate the current evidence on the ethical, legal and psychosocial implications of genetic testing for adoptees. Thirteen articles from peer-reviewed and grey literature were included and thematically analyzed. Our findings suggest that a blanket refusal of genetic testing of adopted children is no longer a sustainable position, especially when considering the potential social benefits that might arise, but further research from the perspective of adopters and adoptees is urgently required.