The role of genomics in personalized medicine has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly in questions related to scientific advancement and healthcare development. Based on recent test reports, this theme has appeared multiple times in various forms, especially in agree/disagree and discussion essays. Let’s analyze one of the most frequently encountered question types on this subject.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that advances in genomics will revolutionize healthcare through personalized medicine. Others argue that these developments may lead to genetic discrimination and privacy concerns. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
The impact of genomics advances on personalized healthcare and medical treatments
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
The rapid advancement of genomic science has sparked intense debate about its implications for healthcare delivery. While proponents highlight its transformative potential for personalized treatment, critics raise valid concerns about discrimination and privacy. In my view, the benefits of genomic medicine significantly outweigh its potential drawbacks if properly regulated.
Those advocating for genomic medicine present compelling arguments about its revolutionary impact on healthcare. By analyzing an individual’s genetic makeup, doctors can predict disease susceptibility and tailor treatments accordingly, dramatically improving treatment efficacy. For instance, oncologists can now prescribe cancer medications based on specific genetic mutations, resulting in higher success rates and fewer adverse reactions. Furthermore, preventive medicine can be significantly enhanced as individuals with genetic predispositions to certain conditions can take early preventive measures.
However, skeptics raise legitimate concerns about potential misuse of genetic information. There are fears that employers or insurance companies might discriminate against individuals based on their genetic profiles, creating a new form of social inequality. Additionally, the storage and protection of genetic data pose significant privacy challenges, as this information could be vulnerable to breaches or unauthorized access.
I believe that the transformative potential of genomic medicine can be realized while addressing these concerns through robust regulatory frameworks. Strict legislation protecting against genetic discrimination, similar to why interdisciplinary approaches are essential for innovation, combined with stringent data protection protocols, can safeguard individuals’ rights while allowing medical progress. Moreover, the benefits of preventing diseases and optimizing treatments far exceed the manageable risks of data protection.
In conclusion, while genomic medicine presents certain challenges, its potential to revolutionize healthcare through personalized treatment is too significant to ignore. The key lies in implementing appropriate safeguards while advancing this promising field.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, genomics is changing how doctors treat patients. Some people think it will make healthcare better, but others worry about problems it might cause. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, genomics helps doctors give better treatment. When doctors know about a person’s genes, they can choose medicine that works better for that person. This means less time wasting on treatments that don’t work. Also, people can know early if they might get sick and try to prevent it.
However, there are some problems too. Some people worry that companies might not give jobs to people because of their genes. Also, if someone’s genetic information is stolen, it could be very bad for them. These are real problems that need to be solved.
I think genomics is good for healthcare but we need rules to make it safe. The government should make laws to stop companies from using genetic information in bad ways. Also, hospitals need to keep genetic information very safe, like they do with other medical information.
In conclusion, I believe genomics will help make healthcare better if we use it carefully and make good rules about it. The benefits are more important than the problems if we handle it properly.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.0 Essay Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary usage (susceptibility, predispositions, transformative)
- Clear paragraph organization
- Complex sentence structures
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Cohesive devices used effectively
- Academic tone maintained throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic paragraph structure
- Mix of simple and complex sentences
- Arguments presented but less developed
- Basic cohesive devices
- Informal tone at times
Key Vocabulary
- Genomics (n) /dʒɪˈnɒmɪks/ – The study of genes and their functions
- Personalized medicine (n) /ˈpɜːsnəlaɪzd ˈmedɪsɪn/ – Healthcare tailored to individual genetic profiles
- Genetic predisposition (n) /dʒəˈnetɪk priːdɪspəˈzɪʃən/ – Natural tendency to develop certain conditions
- Susceptibility (n) /səseptəˈbɪləti/ – Likelihood of being affected by something
- Discriminatory (adj) /dɪˈskrɪmɪnətri/ – Treating different groups of people unfairly
These samples demonstrate different approaches to discussing the role of genomics in healthcare. For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback.
