David Cameron is to unveil plans for a DNA database that could one day hold the genetic details of every person in Britain. <\/p>\n
The 100m project will see 100,000 patients with cancer and rare diseases having their DNA fully mapped as part of a drive to revolutionise NHS treatment. <\/p>\n
The project, to take place in England over the next three to five years, is aimed at saving thousands of lives - but there are concerns that it could pose risks to privacy. <\/p>\n
The Prime Minister said he wanted to \"push the boundaries\" by introducing mainstream genetic sequencing for the first time. <\/p>\n
\"Britain has often led the world in scientific breakthroughs and medical innovations, from the first CT scan and test-tube baby through to decoding DNA,\" Mr Cameron said. <\/p>\n
\"By unlocking the power of DNA data, the NHS will lead the global race for better tests, better drugs and above all better care. <\/p>\n
\"We are turning an important scientific breakthrough into a potentially life-saving reality for NHS patients across the country. <\/p>\n
\"If we get this right, we could transform how we diagnose and treat our most complex diseases not only here but across the world, while enabling our best scientists to discover the next wonder drug or breakthrough technology.\" <\/p>\n
Some critics of the project, known as the \"UK genome plan\", have voiced concerns about how the data will be used and shared with third parties, including with commercial organisations such as drug companies. <\/p>\n
GeneWatch, a campaign group fighting for genetic science and technologies to be used in the public interest, has said anyone with access to the database could use the genetic codes to identify and track every individual on it and their relatives. <\/p>\n
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Originally posted here: David Cameron is to unveil plans for a DNA database that could one day hold the genetic details of every person in Britain. The 100m project will see 100,000 patients with cancer and rare diseases having their DNA fully mapped as part of a drive to revolutionise NHS treatment. The project, to take place in England over the next three to five years, is aimed at saving thousands of lives - but there are concerns that it could pose risks to privacy Continue reading
\nDNA Database: \u00a3100m Bid To Cut Cancer Deaths<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"