Everything has a history. The history of concern by academia over Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) genetic testing dates back to at least 2004 in which it manifested itself in a published statement from the American College of Medicine Genetics.
The statement contains a mere 132 words, yet that is enough to convey their message: "Due to the complexities of genetic testing and counseling, the self-ordering of genetic tests by patients over the telephone or the Internet, and their use of genetic “home testing” kits, is potentially harmful. Potential harms include inappropriate test utilization, misinterpretation of test results, lack of necessary follow-up, and other adverse consequences."
- ASMG Policy Statement - January/February 2004 Vol. 6 No. 1
As of 2009, it is unknown if their concerns have become a reality. On the contrary, there are documented cases of patients using the tests for improving their healthcare decisions. Visit our "Success Stories" section to view such cases.
