Predicting Illness

The video discusses the advent of large genomic datasets and the development of polygenic scores, which predict health risks based on genetic variants. It explores the availability of polygenic tests, their validation, and challenges in applying them across diverse populations. The use of genetic data in social sciences and economics is highlighted, along with ethical implications and future prospects. The video concludes with a discussion on the nature vs. nurture debate in genetic research.

What is the primary purpose of polygenic scores?

• To assess an individual's intelligence

• To calculate an individual's lifespan

• To predict an individual's risk for certain diseases

• To determine an individual's ancestry

Why are polygenic tests not commonly available in doctors' offices?

• They are not accurate enough

• They are only available in Europe

• They require FDA approval for medical conditions

• They are too expensive

What is a major challenge in using polygenic scores across different populations?

• Inconsistent results in European populations

• Limited interest in genetic research

• High cost of genetic testing

• Lack of data from non-European populations

What is one approach to improving polygenic score accuracy in diverse populations?

• Collecting more data from underrepresented groups

• Ignoring genetic variations

• Using only European data

• Focusing on a single disease

How can polygenic scores be used in social science research?

• To predict individual behavior

• To eliminate the role of genes in studies

• To study the effects of educational policies

• To determine social status

What is a significant benefit of using polygenic scores in research?

• They help control for genetic factors in studies

• They provide exact predictions for individuals

• They are only useful in medical research

• They eliminate the need for environmental data

What is a potential ethical concern with using polygenic scores in embryo selection?

• It may lead to increased genetic diversity

• It could result in unintended health consequences

• It ensures perfect health outcomes

• It is widely accepted by all cultures

What is the current technological limitation in selecting for positive traits like intelligence?

• It is not scientifically possible yet

• It requires too many embryos

• It is too expensive

• It is illegal in most countries

What is a pleiotropic effect in the context of genetic selection?

• A beneficial outcome of genetic selection

• An unintended consequence affecting multiple traits

• A method to enhance genetic diversity

• A technique to improve genetic accuracy

Why is it important to consider the environment when predicting outcomes with polygenic scores?

• The environment only affects non-genetic traits

• Genetic predictions are always accurate

• Environmental factors can alter genetic predictions

• The environment has no impact on genetic outcomes