The Ethical and Legal Considerations on Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Prenatal Diagnosis

Kim, Jang Han

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
After 'Bioethics & biosafety act' has been enacted since 2005, Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for embryo and Prenatal diagnosis (PD) for fetus are regulated by this law. This article will discuss the problem and revision of that law.
METHODS
From the medical point of view, we consider the developmental stages of human embryo, genetic disease and PGD. According to the documentary records, we discuss the PGD allowance of European countries and USA and requisites for that allowance. We also discuss the PD in association with the 'Motherhood act' and a related judicial decision.
RESULTS
On PGD, the attitude of quality of European countries is in the nature of variable spectrum and USA doesn't have explicit federal regulations. PGD permission is based on the individual institution and the genetic disease. The genetic conditions for legitimate abortion of 'Motherhood act are not included in Bioethics & biosafety act'. So The purpose and criteria of PD is now in a state of confusion.
CONCLUSION
PGD should be regulated within the title of embryo in 'Bioethics & biosafety act' not within the title of genetic test. Each PGD should be permitted individually on the basis of each institution and genetic disease and then the criteria could be more broadened. The provision for PD should include the legitimate abortion conditions of 'Motherhood act'. To diagnose the sex linked genetic disease, the punishment for sex detection should be excepted to the 'Medicine act'.