Policy required for entry of DNA profiles onto the National Forensic DNA Database of South Africa

Authors

  • Laura J. Heathfield Department of Genetics, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/sajs.2014/20130374

Keywords:

DNA profiling, chromosomal abnormalities, medical confidentiality, forensic science

Abstract

The recent Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act (2013) provides a definition for forensic DNA profiles and, in so doing, states that medical information about an individual may not be revealed through a forensic DNA profile. Yet chromosomal abnormalities can exhibit as tri-allelic patterns on DNA profiles and such information can expose medical conditions such as Down syndrome. This short report highlights this concern and suggests a policy be created for the entering of such DNA profiles onto the National Forensic DNA database of South Africa.

Published

2014-07-21

Issue

Section

Research Letter

How to Cite

Heathfield, L. J. (2014). Policy required for entry of DNA profiles onto the National Forensic DNA Database of South Africa. South African Journal of Science, 110(7/8), 3. https://doi.org/10.1590/sajs.2014/20130374
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