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Genetic Data Sovereignty

Meaning

Genetic Data Sovereignty refers to the individual’s inherent right and legal authority to control the collection, storage, access, and use of their own unique genetic and genomic information. This principle ensures that individuals maintain complete autonomy over their biological blueprint, allowing them to dictate who can analyze their data and for what specific purposes. It is a crucial ethical and legal concept in the age of personalized medicine, protecting against unauthorized use by employers, insurance companies, or research institutions. Upholding data sovereignty is foundational to building trust in the clinical application of genetic testing.