Human growth hormone: a case study in treatment priorities.

One of the most commonly cited examples of enhancement genetic engineering is insertion of the growth hormone (GH) gene into a medically normal child. At this time, insertion of the gene itself is not planned. However, the modification of height, which is possible through administration of biochemical GH, raises the same questions about therapeutic versus enhancement uses of genetics. While insertion of the gene is a more drastic measure and probably carries more risks, the question of appropriate limits on use of the GH drug raises similar ethical and policy questions.