The Genetic Interest Group Welcomes The New HFE Act

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The Genetic Interest Group Welcomes The New HFE Act

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/129877.php

The Genetic Interest Group, the UK patient organisation for all those

affected by genetic disorders, welcomes the passing into law of the

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act.

Alastair Kent, Director commented, " We congratulate all MPs for their

contribution to a world class piece of legislation that provides a

clear framework for the undertaking of cutting edge research into

life limiting disorders, and balances ethical concerns inherent in

this work with the potential benefits to those living with the

consequences of some of the most dreadful diseases.

There is now scope for major progress in scientific knowledge and

ultimately the development of effective treatments and or cures for

currently intractable diseases. " The new Act enables new and

evolving areas of research to be carried out which hold the promise

of hope to many living with serious genetic conditions now and to

those in the future. The Genetic Interest Group especially welcomes

new legislation permitting the full potential of technologies

surrounding embryonic stem cells to be examined and the continued

availability of pre implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and saviour

sibling technologies to those who need them.

Notes

- The Genetic Interest Group (GIG) is a UK national alliance of

organisations with a membership of over 130 charities that support

children, families and individuals affected by genetic disorders.

- GIG's primary goal is to promote awareness and understanding of

genetic disorders so that high quality services for people affected

by genetic conditions are developed and made available to all who

need them.

- Individually, many genetic conditions are rare and as such it is

difficult to raise their profile and the needs of those affected by

them. GIG provides a common platform from which effective programmes

to raise awareness, inform the media and influence government,

industry and the NHS can be launched

- As an organisation focusing on issues of policy and practice GIG

keeps an active watch on developments in the UK and Europe that will

influence the effective transfer of knowledge and understanding into

products and services for families that are supported by our member

groups.

- In a potentially controversial field like genetics GIG provides a

strong voice advocating the benefits of scientific progress in

understanding the contribution being made now and that will be made

in the years to come for improving health and combating many

currently incurable diseases.