Canadian's attitudes concerning genetic privacy

When reflecting on the issue of genetic discrimination, I decided to further explore how Canadian's feel about genetic privacy. Despite the fact that the data I found is not specific the genetic privacy in the context of health care setting, it reflects the general attitude regarding genetic privacy. 

The 2011 Canadians and privacy survey (presented by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada) gathered data regarding Canadian's attitudes towards genetic privacy.

The survey indicates that the majority of Canada are concerned about the issue of genetic privacy and how it might impact their insurance and employment (PRIV, 2011). 

When asked their opinion regarding companies who offer genetic testing Canadian's reported the following: 

• 79% - are concerned about the genetic information being used in a disclosed or unauthorized way by the company 
• only 6% - indicated they had no concerns about the information being used in an unauthorized manner
• 78% - are concerned about giving the information to organizations that are not subject to health privacy regulations 
• 50% are concerned they may be required to provide the results to insurance companies 

Images retrieved from: https://www.priv.gc.ca/information/por-rop/2011/por_2011_01_e.asp#toc3d

Reference
Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada. (2011). 2011 Canadians and Privacy Survey. Retrieved    
      from https://www.priv.gc.ca/information/por-rop/2011/por_2011_01_e.asp#toc3d