Public health genetics : Fundamental rights aspects [Public Health Genetics : Grundrechtliche Aspekte]

The fundamental right of "informational self-determination" (protection of personal data) protects the individual against collection, storage, use and disclosure of her/his personal data - including genetic data - without her/his informed consent. However, in cases of overriding public interest, limitations of this right are deemed legitimate. Public health, expressly guaranteed in some German state constitutions, may constitute such overriding public interest and justify corresponding state measures as long as they respect the principle of proportionality. © 2009 Springer Medizin Verlag.