Trial for screening of IVF embryos is eugenic

This letter was sent to ST Forum but was not published.

Scientifically and medically, the embryo is at every stage of its development a human being. Pre-implantation genetic screening is in reality a "search and destroy" mission, the modern face of eugenics ("Trial for screening IVF embryos to start soon" ; 11 Nov). 

According to Dr Christopher Chong, this screening can potentially reduce the number of abnormal babies, miscarriages, failures, reduce trauma for mothers as they can find out before pregnancy, compared to the anguish of discovering it during pregnancy over even after delivery. 

A human life would be eliminated when it fails the quality control. Isn't this based on parental and societal preference, just that the characteristic 'gender' has been replaced by 'degree of perfection'? 

Who will now leave their children's lives to nature's chance if defective genes can be detected in the laboratory? 

Furthermore, if chromosomal abnormalities account for more than half the miscarriages that occur, then the problem lies with this Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) that goes against our natural body working. ART treatments not only pose ethical difficulties but is also intrinsically harmful to children conceived through it.  

The principle of freedom of conscience also requires that the government refrain from channelling the tax proceeds of those who conscientiously object to IVF into the procedure. 

 

Lastly, as a woman born with brittle bones, a genetic disorder, I testify to a life of resilience that comes from having a disability. My family, especially my late mother never regretted my birth.

Like what Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said, with many helping hands, persons with special needs can live full and worthwhile lives. No one deserves to be written off.