MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Direct-to-consumer genetic testing is growing increasingly popular, particularly around the holidays with companies running promotional sales. However, much of the general public lacks a good understanding of these tests and is unaware of the potential risks. I begin with background information on the industry as it is important for consumers to understand what exactly direct-to-consumer genetic testing is because there is a lot of misinformation out there. I outline the advantages and disadvantages associated with direct-to-consumer genetic testing so that consumers can make an educated decision on whether or not to purchase a direct-to-consumer genetic test. Advantages of these tests include disease predisposition, disease carrier status, and ancestry information. Disadvantages of these tests include privacy risk as some companies have been known to disclose genetic information to third parties and misinterpretation of the results. Here, I emphasize the need for the consumer to have a basic understanding of genetics as it is easy to be misled by the results. I provide a basic explanation of genetics, highlighting the point that disease-associated gene variants do not guarantee disease phenotype and the tests are therefore not diagnostic. I close by emphasizing that genetic testing is a personal decision that should not be taken lightly and recommending further resources for those interested, such as a consultation with a genetic counselor.
WC = 218

Reader’s Profile
I imagine a heavily-invested proponent of the industry, such as an executive at 23andMe, who does not believe that there are any disadvantages to direct-to-consumer genetic testing and that everyone should do it.

Reader’s Response
I think the writer of this document is pessimistic and overly critical of the industry because I know 23andMe does everything in our power to protect consumer’s privacy and accurately inform the consumer of their results. Although I suppose it could be confusing for someone without a science background to interpret the data and I guess our language can be misleading at times. Maybe we should work harder to be upfront with our consumers on the limitations of our tests and continue to protect consumer’s privacy.

Good plan. I wanted you to know that DNA Detectives on FB -- and a few other groups -- are places of support to others concerning interpretation AND all aspects of these tests. Just FYI.