VA Collecting DNA?

The VA is embarking on an ambitious program which will attempt to get DNA information from veterans which they will then tie in to the veterans' medical records for "research" purposes.

Sounds okay, but only if -- and that's a BIG IF -- the purpose is to do research into such things as the genetic causes of disease and the development of treatments.

But let's face it, the VA does not have the best reputation when it comes to safeguarding personal privacy, and I am not at all willing to give up my DNA when I don't know -- and can't be guaranteed -- that it won't fall into the wrong hands. The wrong hands being my health insurance company, the cops or drug companies, just for starters.

So the next time you go to the VA medical center, if they ask you for a DNA sample, do what I'm going to do -- tell 'em you'll leave one on your way out with that cute blonde receptionist at the front desk...