Genetic Tests and Insurance in Japan: The Case for a Regulatory Framework

In contrast to the position in many advanced industrial countries, Japan lacks a specific regulatory framework to govern the ways in which insurance companies can make use of genetic test results. Whilst this situation has not yet given rise to major social or legal problems, this article nevertheless argues that the current policy vacuum is unsatisfactory. Some options for the development of an appropriate regulatory system are suggested that draw from the recent experiences of countries such as Australia and the UK whilst taking into account some particular features of the Japanese insurance market.