What does the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) prohibit?

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) specifically prohibits discrimination based on genetic information. This law was enacted to prevent health insurance companies and employers from using genetic information to make decisions about an individual's eligibility for health insurance coverage or employment opportunities. GINA aims to alleviate the concerns individuals may have about disclosing their genetic predispositions to certain health conditions, ensuring that such information is not used against them in a discriminatory manner.

Understanding this focus on genetic information is essential because it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of genetic privacy in the context of health benefits and employment. As genetic testing becomes more common, GINA serves as an essential protection for individuals against potential misuse of their genetic data, promoting equity and confidentiality in health-related matters.