Announcements

Direct-to-consumer genetic testing, also known as at-home genetic testing, allows consumers to provide their genetic material to a private laboratory which screens their DNA for copies of genes that have been shown to statistically increase their chance of acquiring certain diseases. The topic is controversial both in the United States and overseas because some people believe that genetic testing should only be done by a doctor or certified genetic counselor.

Check out this short article from MarketWatch that I came across about recent studies that look into the potential emotional tole of at-home genetic testing.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/study-gauges-emotional-toll-of-direct-to-consumer-genetic-testing-2011-10-03

Also consider the fact that several organizations have produced public statements regarding direct-to-consumer genetic testing, such as the American College of Medical Genetics:

http://www.acmg.net/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Policy_Statements&Template=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=2975

And this publication by the Federal Trade Commission:

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/health/hea02.pdf

Finally, check out these examples of companies who provide at-home genetic testing services, and take some time to browse through their sites.

Navigenics: https://www.navigenics.com/visitor/what_we_offer/how_it_works/
The Genetic Testing Laboratories, Inc: http://www.gtldna.com/predisposition.html


Do you believe there are potential benefits to the use of at-home genetic testing kits? What are the potential risks? Would you as a consumer trust one of these kits to tell you your risk of developing a potentially life-threatening disease? Should it be required that consumers have their doctor or genetic counselor help them interpret the test results?

Responses due October 9th.