RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Ethical issues in predictive genetic testing: a public health perspective JF Journal of Medical Ethics JO J Med Ethics FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics SP 143 OP 147 DO 10.1136/jme.2004.010272 VO 32 IS 3 A1 K G Fulda A1 K Lykens YR 2006 UL http://jme.bmj.com/content/32/3/143.abstract AB As a result of the increase in genetic testing and the fear of discrimination by insurance companies, employers, and society as a result of genetic testing, the disciplines of ethics, public health, and genetics have converged. Whether relatives of someone with a positive predictive genetic test should be notified of the results and risks is a matter urgently in need of debate. Such a debate must encompass the moral and ethical obligations of the diagnosing physician and the patient. The decision to inform or not will vary depending on what moral theory is used. Utilising the utilitarian and libertarian theories produces different outcomes. The principles of justice and non-maleficence will also play an important role in the decision.