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Re-activateIn some cases, you may also be able to have your genes tested to see if you have any markers that might put you at higher risk for the disease. Tests that have proven clinically valid and useful may be available through your physician. Another option is to order tests yourself on the websites of firms that sell them directly to consumers.
I've long been fascinated by direct-to-consumer gene testing because it seemed to put the power to 'know thyself' into the hands of the customer. But a study released in late July by the U.S. Government Accountability Office has raised some serious doubts about whether these customers are getting what they pay for.When GAO investigators sent DNA samples from two donors to four genetic testing companies, results from some of the 15 common diseases and conditions tested did not match up. A 37-year-old female, for example, was told that her risk of leukemia was above average, below average, and average, depending on the company doing the testing. The test for Restless Leg Syndrome gave a similar range of results.
The GAO also examined the websites and posed as consumers talking with representatives of 15 DTC genetic testing firms. They found that 10 companies "were engaged in fraudulent, deceptive, or otherwise questionable marketing practices." Some companies said that DNA results could be used to create personalized supplements to cure diseases, and one claimed their line of supplements could "repair broken DNA."
Health predictions based on genetic testing are often no better—and in many instances still much worse—than predictions based on family history and lifestyle. So when a disease risk raises its head, its still best to focus on things you can really control, which most of the time means tweaking our lifestyle to treat our bodies as well as possible.
—Ronni Sandroff, Health and Family editorial director
If you had the opportunity, would you have your genes tested for potential disease markers? Join our Facebook conversation.
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