Technological advances may lead to genetic apartheid, says scientist

A leading scientist will today spell out his fears of a future of "genetic apartheid" where those with low-grade DNA could be stigmatised.

Sir Paul Nurse, a Nobel prize-winner, who is the chief executive of Cancer Research UK, predicts that in 20 years' time, it will be technically possible to sequence the genome of each new baby.

Children could then be given a "genetic identity card," Sir Paul will say in a speech at the Royal Society on genetic testing. The card would provide a comprehensive map of a child's genes and the associated risk of developing certain diseases.

While this would enable people to seek preventative measures and adopt healthier lifestyles, Sir Paul warns it could also lead to a sinister form of separation. Individuals could find themselves being dismissed or overlooked by employers and insurers because of genetic defects. If genome sequencing was only available privately to those able to afford it, a genetic underclass could result.

Sir Paul, chairman of the Royal Society's Science in Society Programme, will warn: "This issue is too important to be left to scientists and policy makers alone.

"In the coming years, the public will be offered more and more opportunities to take genetic tests and peer into their genetic destinies, but legislation must keep pace with the technology and help shape a fair and equitable society."

He pointed out that the American gene pioneer Craig Venter was already offering people the chance to buy a map of their genomes for £451,338. Dr Venter anticipated that price coming down to about £600 in years to come.

Sir Paul tempered his warning by stressing the benefits of a technology that enabled scientists to examine a person's genetic make-up. "Genetic technology could lead to an era of personalised medicine and better-tailored preventive treatment."