Genetic Discrim'tn Allowed in the U.S. Military

CalGal

I just read this in yesterday's (8/18/07) Los Angeles Times, page 1 ... Genetic Discrimination is allowed in the U.S. military. The federal protection laws against genetic discrimination do not apply.

While this applies to all genetic mutations, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are included.

The point of the article was that once the military finds out that a service-person has a genetic mutatation, they tend to deny health insurance and medical disability retirements. The article even states that for women who might have the BRCA mutation, genetic testing is discouraged!

The article did not state how this might effect the medical insurance of dependents ...

CalGal

Indigoblue

CalGal,
So glad you posted that info. It also applies to insurance, loans, job applications, life, and so many other factors.

It's why I'm reluctant to have genetic tests; the applications are more invasive than the cancer! You can sometimes have anonymous testing, but then insurance doesn't pay. Frustrating, isn't it? Sometimes family members get upset, as well. The fact that one person tests positive puts the whole family at risk for being "possibly positive", and under suspicion.

Thanks again!

Indi

whooooop84

CalGal -

thanks for posting that!  I'm in the military and just got dx with ADH.  I was thinking about asking the docs to do the testing - now I don't think I will.  I  only have about 4 years left before I retire - don't wish to put that in jeopardy!

Lee