Abstract
Genetic breast cancer susceptibility testing presents ethical challenges for healthcare providers and their patients. The familial aspects of genetic information, recognition of DNA as a shared history and present common thread for all people and widespread misunderstandings of genetic tests all contribute to these challenges. In this article an ethical framework internationally developed as a charter for medical professionalism is used to guide approaches to ethical dilemmas of breast cancer genetic testing. Specifically, three ethical principles are explored as they relate to testing: primacy of patient, patient autonomy, and social justice. Approaching breast cancer genetic testing from this framework could help to ensure thoughtful and ethical practices in this rapidly evolving field.