Kaiser Permanente is one of a number of healthcare organizations across the nation that are planning to conduct research that would require the creation of large DNA databases.

The research will build on the work of the Human Genome Project, a national genetic research inititiative. The creation of the DNA databases will hopefully help to find genetic links to various diseases, identifying new genetic markers for those diseases and ultimately locating possible targets for new drugs. Similar research is being conducted at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Northwestern University and the National Institutes for Health, among others.

Kaiser is reportedly planning to ask for DNA samples from about 2 million adults in Northern California. Kaiser enrollees, and others, have raised various concerns about the initiative, including privacy considerations. Many want to know how Kaiser will ensure that genetic data will not be used to deny insurance coverage to enrollees whose genetic make-ups indicate they are susceptible to serious diseases or conditions.