Testing individuals for potential health problems - Essay Example

Testing individuals for potential health problems A lot of debate today goes on about testing individuals for potential health problems even if there are still no symptoms existing. The debate goes a step further by considering arguments that question whether tests should be done even when there is no cure available for the disease. There are several pros and cons on the issue. One side claims that for those with symptoms, it is beneficial to have early tests made because the patient can have access to drugs that can cure the symptoms (Marchione, 2011).

In patients with possible Alzheimer’s, other benefits given to early testing include “treatment of reversible causes of impairment; inclusion in clinical trials that give expert care; avoiding drugs that worsen the cognition; letting others know of a need for help managing medicines and daily life; easing anxiety about the causes of the symptoms; access to education; training and support services and the ability to plan for the future (Marchione, 2011). Others take the view that genetic tests should not be undertaken because in some cases, the presence of gene mutations does not guarantee that one will acquire the disease (Ridley, 1999).

Ridley summarizes her arguments by saying that the lack of certainty, lack of medical options and problems with confidentiality and discrimination are reasons why genetic testing should not be done (1999). One is of the opinion that all things considered, it is still best that testing must done. As the old cliché goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Although there is no certainty that one will get the disease, one can already take preventive measures to avoid acquiring the illness.

Whether or not there is a cure for the disease, one should be made aware of his disease so that in the future if new cures are developed, they can avail of such. More information is better than no information at all. Having symptoms and not knowing the reason why causes stress and anxiety to a person. One firmly believes that testing is still the best option.Works CitedMarchione, M. (2011, July 21). Alzheimer's debate: Should you test if you can't treat it? Retrieved June 18, 2012, from The Salt Lake Tribune Web site: http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/world/52238799-68/alzheimer-disease-symptoms-dementia.html.cspRidley, T. L. (1999).

Your medical heritage chart: To test or not to test? Essence , 30 (8), 40.ReferencesMarchione, M. (2011, July 21). Alzheimer's debate: Should you test if you can't treat it? Retrieved June 18, 2012, from The Salt Lake Tribune Web site: http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/world/52238799-68/alzheimer-disease-symptoms-dementia.html.cspRidley, T. L. (1999). Your medical heritage chart: To test or not to test? Essence , 30 (8), 40.