Malaria Isn’t Going Away– Yet

In 2016 there were 216 million incidents of malaria contraction in over 90 countries. Since 2015, that’s five million additional cases. And lucky us, we’re in the throes of mosquito season. Although 90% of malaria infections are attributed to Africa, the United States isn’t in the free and clear. Although we’ve managed to eliminate contraction of Malaria within the US, 22,029 patients were hospitalized for malaria in 2014. The rate of contraction among travelers is quite substantial, and most common in black males aged 25-44. (Attributed mainly to first and second generations of African decent.)

“Big Data” is no longer a concept, it’s a reality. Over the past decade, the life sciences sector has been revolutionized by big data, and the revolution isn’t over yet. From the way doctors interact with patients to the way researchers utilize public information, data is the key to almost every advancement on the life sciences horizon.

Genetic data has become a commodity. There is now a sizeable market for genetic information just like there is for navel oranges and consumer electronics…but what are the ethical ramifications?

Scientists and philosophers all over the globe continue to grapple with the complex question surrounding the recent glut of readily-available genetic data. When it comes to selling personal genetic data, is it ever ethical?