Not only can genetic databases be of use in the medical field, but also for FBI purposes. With the help of a national genetic database, the FBI would be able to quickly identify missing persons, cadavers, and criminals. The intention of obtaining a genetic database is to solve murders and identify other victims that could only previously be identified as Jane or John Doe. The International Homicide Investigators Association claims that nationally there are more than 40,000 unidentified cadavers. Thomas Callaghan, director of the FBI 's national DNA database program stated that a genetic database would improve the FBI’s capability in solving crime (Willing, 2006). Rather than only being able to match up DNA of on file criminals to the DNA present
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In the past, DNA databases have typically only contained the genetic information from convicted criminals; genetic databases have proven to be useful, as the rate of solved crimes continue to increase due to their involvement (Graham, 2007). A genetic database will also improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and expedite personalized medical care by providing a better understanding of gene interactions (Hadden, 2000, p. 542). In fact, eighty-four percent of the 4,659 Americans surveyed in a 2007 study said that they would be comfortable giving genetic information for the purpose of seeing how individuals with and without genetic illness live their lives. Knowing that this large group of people is in support of such genetic research shows promise for the future of genetic databases. Genetic databases have the potential to be used for pharmacogenetics for disease treatment and the safer prescription of drugs to patients (Patrinos & Drell, 1997, p. 5). In order for these benefits to be capitalized, it is imperative for the common people to become more educated on the profits of maintaining a nationalized genetic database in order for society to improve in the fields of medicine and criminal justice. By educating the public, there will be far less fear, confusion, and scientific illiteracy about the subject at hand. Genetic information should be obtained and stored in a database and be accessible for medical, judicial, and research
In the past, DNA databases have typically only contained the genetic information from convicted criminals; genetic databases have proven to be useful, as the rate of solved crimes continue to increase due to their involvement (Graham, 2007). A genetic database will also improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and expedite personalized medical care by providing a better understanding of gene interactions (Hadden, 2000, p. 542). In fact, eighty-four percent of the 4,659 Americans surveyed in a 2007 study said that they would be comfortable giving genetic information for the purpose of seeing how individuals with and without genetic illness live their lives. Knowing that this large group of people is in support of such genetic research shows promise for the future of genetic databases. Genetic databases have the potential to be used for pharmacogenetics for disease treatment and the safer prescription of drugs to patients (Patrinos & Drell, 1997, p. 5). In order for these benefits to be capitalized, it is imperative for the common people to become more educated on the profits of maintaining a nationalized genetic database in order for society to improve in the fields of medicine and criminal justice. By educating the public, there will be far less fear, confusion, and scientific illiteracy about the subject at hand. Genetic information should be obtained and stored in a database and be accessible for medical, judicial, and research