文摘
Definition of the problem The German Genetic Diagnosis Act (Genetic Diagnosis Act, GenDG) became effective on February 1, 2010. Although this act was welcomed by many, the debate surrounding some regulatory areas, for example, screening newborns, continues. One aspect of this new legislation, however, has received little attention: the prohibition of prenatal diagnosis of so-called late-onset diseases—where first symptoms only develop after completion of the 18th year of life—constitutes an internationally unique prohibition. In this publication, we would like to contribute to a more differentiated discussion of §?15(2) GenDG that sanctions this diagnosis. Arguments and conclusion There are arguments supporting this prohibition (especially the right of the child not to know). However, based on medical concerns as well as an analysis of ethical and legal pros and cons, we conclude that maintaining this general prohibition of diagnosing late-onset diseases might be insufficient as well as inconsistent with other regulations; thus, possible alternatives are discussed.