Preimplantation genetic diagnosis: public policy and public attitudes

This paper summarizes the regulatory framework surrounding preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in the United States. In addition, the author reports results of surveys that reveal conflicting popular opinions about the moral acceptability of manipulating embryos during PGD. For example, some people who feel that an embryo has as much moral status as a born baby nonetheless feel that using PGD to screen embryos for certain diseases is morally acceptable. The national debate about technologies like PGD is stunted because it is currently cast in the same terms as the debate over abortion rights. If national leaders begin discussions about regulation of PGD and similar technologies, it could help depolarize the debate to more accurately consider the nuanced views of the public.