Apparently, scientists in Australia have developed a genetic test to predict autism. Now, because I'm not an overly negative person, let me say this: I can see a positive side to this. If diagnosed early in life, intervention can greatly reduce the impact of behavioral and cognitive deficits on the child's life.
Of course, there's also the giant, glaring elephant in the room: the parents would have the option to abort a baby that is diagnosed with autism.
Naturally, there are people on both sides of the fence. Personally, I'm still ON the fence. My biggest concern is that tests like these will lead to the abortion of many babies with autism, simply because the parents don't want to put the time and effort into their child. Being diagnosed with autism does mean that the road will be more difficult, but it's not a death sentence. In fact, there are many who would view their autism as a blessing, a gift in disguise.
Either way, it's something to think about.
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