Over-the-counter at home genetic screening … yes or no ?
Fran Berkwits, MS, LMSW, board member & Genetic Counselor for the JGDC & the National Tay-Sachs & Allied Diseases Association (NTSAD) writes the following:
“The JGDC does not recommend saliva based, at home, over the counter genetic testing (DTC) at this time. Tay-Sachs Disease, for example, requires enzyme assay, for the most reliable results, which require blood tests. We are concerned, too, that many individuals will have difficulty determining which tests are most appropriate for their individual heritage. Finally, we are concerned that the individual would need help in fully understanding the test results, particularly “carrier” status, and the significance both for the individual tested and for other family members. We strongly suggest that test results are best provided by genetic counselors or medical geneticists to avoid any misinterpretation or misunderstanding of test results.”
Links to articles about this topic:
The Jewish Forward: “Accessibility vs. Expertise: Direct-to-Consumer Testing Sparks Debate”
Chicago Tribune: “Genetic test kits to hit stores amid controversy”
this is a recent article (1/17/11) from the NY TIMES about home genetic testing, written by John Tierney:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/18/science/18tier.html?_r=1&ref=johntierney
You’ve hit the ball out the park! Incrdeilbe!
Although I am no longer of reproductive age, I would like to get tested so I have an idea of what genetic diseases I’ve passed onto my children.