Do Health and Forensic DNA Databases Increase Racial Disparities?
Author Information
Author(s): Peter A. Chow-White, Troy Duster
Hypothesis
The study examines whether the digital divide in health and forensic DNA databases contributes to racial disparities.
Conclusion
The study highlights that health and forensic DNA databases reflect and exacerbate existing racial disparities.
Supporting Evidence
- Most DNA samples in population studies are from individuals of European origin.
- Individuals from African American and Latino groups are overrepresented in forensic DNA databases.
- Current public policy lacks recognition of the digital divide in health and law enforcement databases.
Takeaway
This study looks at how DNA databases can be unfair to certain racial groups, making it harder for them to get good health care and fair treatment in the law.
Potential Biases
The study discusses potential biases in DNA collection practices that disproportionately affect nonwhite populations.
Limitations
The study does not provide specific data on the sample sizes or the methodologies used in the referenced studies.
Participant Demographics
The study notes underrepresentation of individuals from Asian, African, Latino, and aboriginal groups in DNA databases.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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