Current Technology
Issues and Dilemmas
Aikoki L. Maki, RN
Genetic Diagnosis
Rapidly evolving, offering significant benefits in disease detection and
personalized treatment. These advancements bring forth complex ethical
dilemmas that require careful consideration and proactive policy development.
Recent Advancements in Genetic Diagnosis
Whole Genome Sequencing for Critically Ill Infants: Lord David Cameron advocates for comprehensive
genome sequencing of all critically ill infants to identify rare diseases early.
Liquid Biopsy for Cancer Detection: The NHS in England has adopted a groundbreaking DNA blood test,
known as a liquid biopsy, for lung and breast cancer patients, enabling tailored treatments.
AI-Powered Gene Ranking: Companies like GeneDx are utilizing AI to accelerate genetic analysis,
reducing turnaround times and increasing access to care.
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Ethical Dilemmas in Genetic Diagnosis
Privacy and Data Ownership: As genetic testing becomes more prevalent,
questions arise about who owns and controls genetic information.
Germline Gene Editing: The potential for editing human embryos raises concerns
about unintended consequences and ethical boundaries.
Genetic Discrimination: There is a risk that individuals could face
discrimination based on their genetic information in employment or insurance.
For future updates:
The combination of artificial intelligence and genomic data is expected to enhance
diagnostic accuracy and personalized medicine.
Expansion of Genetic Testing Services: As technologies become more accessible, genetic
testing may become a routine part of healthcare, necessitating updated ethical guidelines.
Global Collaboration: International efforts are needed to address the ethical, legal, and
social implications of genetic diagnosis and ensure equitable access to advancements.
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Engineering
In 2025 is at the forefront of technological innovation, addressing global
challenges through AI integration, sustainable practices, and ethical
considerations. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for engineers to
navigate the evolving landscape and make responsible decisions that benefit
society.
Integration of AI in Engineering
Advantages: Challenges:
AI is increasingly used for predictive Overreliance on AI may lead to ethical
maintenance, design optimization, and violations and safety risks.
automation in engineering processes. Engineers must ensure AI tools are used
AI-powered tools are enhancing productivity responsibly and within their area of
and decision-making. competence
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Ethical Considerations in Engineering Practices
Concerns: Approach:
Job displacement due to automation and AI Developing ethical frameworks to guide
integration. responsible engineering practices.
Bias in AI algorithms affecting engineering Engaging stakeholders in discussions about the
decisions. societal implications of engineering innovations.
Environmental impacts of engineering projects.
Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
Importance: With the integration of digital technologies, protecting sensitive data in
engineering systems is paramount.
Issues: Ensuring data privacy and security in AI and machine learning applications and
addressing vulnerabilities in interconnected engineering systems
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Screening
Technologies offer significant benefits in various sectors, including healthcare
and public safety.
Advancements in Screening Technologies
Genetic Screening for Embryos: Heliospect Genomics offers services to screen embryos for
predicted high IQ and other traits, raising ethical concerns about genetic selection.
Facial Recognition in Public Safety: Police Scotland considers implementing live facial
recognition technology to enhance public safety, despite privacy concerns.
AI-Powered Health Screenings: AI algorithms are increasingly used to analyze medical data
for early disease detection, improving diagnostic accuracy.
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Ethical Dilemmas in Screening Practices
Privacy and Consent: The use of full-body scanners and facial recognition
technologies raises concerns about individual privacy and informed consent.
Bias and Discrimination: AI-driven screening tools may perpetuate existing biases,
leading to discriminatory outcomes in areas like hiring and law enforcement.
Data Ownership and Security: Questions arise regarding who owns and controls
the data collected through various screening technologies.
For future updates:
Regulatory Frameworks: Developing comprehensive regulations to govern the use of screening
technologies and protect individual rights.
Public Engagement: Encouraging public discourse on the ethical implications of screening
practices to inform policy decisions.
Technological Innovations: Advancing screening technologies to enhance accuracy while
addressing ethical and privacy concerns.
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Medication
Technological advancements in medications offer significant benefits, including
improved treatment outcomes and personalized care.
Advancements in Medication Technologies
3D-Printed Medications:
3D printing offers precise dosing and the ability to design tablets with improved release profiles.
Applications include pediatric, geriatric, psychiatry, and neurology patients.
The first FDA-approved 3D-printed tablet was Spritam (levetiracetam), an anti-epileptic medication.
Electronic Prescribing (e-Prescribing):
Streamlines the prescription process, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
Challenges include financial costs and implementation barriers, especially for small practices.
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Ethical and Regulatory Challenges
Access and Affordability: Despite technological advancements, over half of new
prescriptions for novel medicines go unfilled due to benefit design and high
costs.
Data Privacy and Security: The integration of AI and digital tools in medication
management raises concerns about patient data privacy and security.
Regulatory Oversight: Rapid technological advancements outpace existing
regulatory frameworks, necessitating updated policies to ensure safety and
efficacy.
For future updates:
Personalized Medicine: Advancements in genomics and biomarkers enable more precise
treatment options tailored to individual patients.
Digital Transformation: The life sciences industry is focusing on enhancing digital
capabilities to improve products, services, and operations.
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THANK YOU!
“Technology is like teenage children—amazing
when it works, terrifying when it doesn’t, and
constantly testing your patience.”
— Someone who tried updating software during a live presentation
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