Concerned by the increasing availability of genetic tests for self-performance, specialists announced their recommendations for their producers, informs the BBC News website.
Many private companies – especially American ones – launch tests to determine, on the basis of characteristic genes, the risk of genetically determined diseases in a given person. The person who buys the kit takes a cheek swab and sends a stick and a swab to the lab to find out if he is at risk of diabetes, Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or breast cancer.
However, the UK’s Human Genetics Commission (HGC), which deals with genetic research, is concerned that people who buy test kits online do not have the knowledge to correctly interpret the results, which at best is a waste of money, but can also result in unjustified fear and stress. Even if the result is correct, the person receiving it is deprived of the support of experienced clinicians on what to do next.
According to the HGC, in the case of serious genetically determined diseases – such as Huntington’s disease and cancer – testing can only be done with early and late support. Companies should be clear about what the results of the study might be and what the patient can do next, basing any claims on scientific papers published in the major professional press. Finally, the patient should be provided with accessible information about genetic testing.
Representatives of patient and consumer organizations would also like patients to always consult their physician prior to testing, and that tests for major diseases are only available through healthcare professionals. (PAP)