July 25, 2006 - Recent years have seen a proliferation of
commercially available genetic tests, both for identifying
health-related genes and for non-health-related applications,
such as paternity, forensics and genealogy. Traditionally
health-related genetic tests have been available only through
health care providers, who decide whether a test is needed and
interpret test results. However, these tests are increasingly
marketed not only to health care providers but also to consumers
themselves. Beyond the significant gaps that exist in the
general regulation of genetic tests, direct-to-consumer (DTC)
genetic testing raises additional concerns. DTC testing
encompasses two separate but related issues: claims made about
the tests to induce purchase (e.g., through advertising); and
the sale of genetic testing services and provision of test
results directly to consumers. In regards to the former, critics
argue that consumers are vulnerable to being misled by
advertisements and lack the knowledge to make appropria