The genetic moral code: as we learn about the genetics of sexual orientation, we know that genetics plays a powerful role.

WITH STUNNING SPEED SCIENTISTS ARE UNRAVELING THE mysteries of our genetic code. Just a few months ago, researchers discovered a genetic mutation that doubles one's risk of getting colon cancer, and a few years ago scientists uncovered BRCA1 and BRCA2--two genes that indicate an increased possibility for breast cancer.

These recent discoveries and others like them have reignited the debate about the awesome potential and perils of new advances in genetic research. These discussions warn us to carefully consider the vast implications of this new information and caution that it not be used, as similar information has been in the past, to stigmatize and discriminate against individuals and groups. These concerns remind us of the need for a national dialogue to ensure that advances in genetics are used as a rich source of power and unity and not as a wedge that divides us.

These new concerns also underscore the immediate need to prevent this genetic information from being misused. Advances in genetics give us the potential to identify hidden tendencies toward nearly every human condition. In fact, scientists predict that soon they will be able to analyze an individual's genetic makeup almost instantly--revealing one's predisposition to disease, reaction to drugs, and susceptibility to certain environmental exposures. We should embrace this march of science, for it will no doubt chart new ways to conquer many of our most perplexing illnesses.

But with such sweeping progress comes the need for new protections. We must ensure that scientific advances are used for positive rather than destructive outcomes. We know that those who are identified as having a genetic predisposition to certain conditions or orientations are at risk for discrimination. We also know that many Americans are reluctant to take advantage of new breakthroughs in genetic testing for fear that the results will be used to deny them their health insurance or their jobs rather than to improve their care.

In fact, studies show that a leading reason women do not get new genetic testing for susceptibility to breast cancer is that they worry about this kind of discrimination. Fear prevents some women from ever learning early that they are likely to inherit this dreadful disease so that they can increase preventive efforts. Moreover, the realities and the fears of genetic discrimination undermine participation in critical new genetic research that can help us better understand and treat diseases.

And as we learn about the origins of sexual orientation, we know that genetics plays a powerful role here as well. Thus, protections against discrimination based on genetic testing may in the years to come be an important issue for gay and lesbian Americans.

Recognizing the consequences of genetic discrimination for health care and research, the president and I have proposed legislation that will prevent health plans from denying or dropping coverage or raising premiums based on genetic information; furthermore, it will prohibit health plans from disclosing this type of information. I urge Congress to act quickly to pass laws to assure Americans that breakthroughs in genetic research will be used to advance America's health, not to label or discriminate against any group or individual.

The next century will be propelled by new and stunning developments. For the first time we may have a kind of instruction book for a human being. Genetic research will continue to yield health care opportunities as well as raise new dilemmas for protecting all Americans.

These changes call on us to redouble our vigilance to make sure that science always serves to enhance our lives. By passing legislation this year that protects Americans from genetic discrimination, Congress will take an important step to do just that.