News
Value of Gene Testing Kits Challenged
Ever since the human genome was deciphered seven years ago, companies have been rushing to sell genetic tests directly to consumers. But buyers, beware: Many of the claims that accompany these tests are not fully supported by science, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Some 1,400 genetic tests are currently available. There are tests that aim to identify the gender of a fetus as early as seven weeks after conception. Some companies test for traits such as a “sweet tooth gene,” and then sell tailored supplements to hasten weight loss. And there are disease-specific tests to predict a person’s risk of cancer, diabetes and numerous other afflictions.
