What does the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) protect against?

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) specifically protects individuals from discrimination based on their genetic information. This law prohibits both health insurance companies and employers from using genetic information in decisions related to insurance coverage and employment practices. It aims to prevent discrimination against individuals or their family members based on genetic characteristics that may indicate a predisposition to certain health conditions or diseases.

In the context of employment, GINA ensures that employers do not make hiring, firing, promotion, or other employment-related decisions based on an individual's genetic predisposition to conditions like cancer, heart disease, or other hereditary conditions. By safeguarding genetic information, GINA aims to encourage individuals to pursue genetic testing and counseling without fear of discrimination.

The other options listed focus on different forms of discrimination that fall under different laws and regulations, highlighting the specific scope of GINA in relation to genetic information.