"Gene kits" health warning

KITS that claim to be able to predict users’ future health problems using DNA analysis have been called into question by genetics experts. The growing number of tests available on line has prompted the British Society for Human Genetics to speak out on behalf of ‘unsuspecting consumers’.

Professor Shirley Hodgson, of St George’s, University of London’s genetics department, and a Society member, said: “There are increasing numbers of such tests being offered direct to consumers, all offering unrealistic promises about being able to predict their future health. Frankly, you’d get a better idea of your health risks by looking at your family tree than using some of these kits, which cost up to £900.”

A recent ITV documentary, The Killer Within, which saw celebrities taking a test from Genetic Health, has further fuelled the controversy.

“The programme failed to explain the science behind the test,” says Professor Hodgson.
“Therefore the claims regarding the predictive value of the tests were not verifiable. It made claims which most scientists and doctors would agree are either unsubstantiated, incomplete or insufficiently validated to be used in clinical practice.

“The genetic variants likely to have been used in this test confer only small health benefits and disadvantages (since they do not test the very rare genes which confer a very strong predisposition to certain conditions) and must be seen in the context of other wellrecognised modifiers of risk such as family history, lifestyle and other medical factors.

“Tests like these can give a false impression to users of their risks of developing health conditions such as Alzheimer’s or prostate cancer, and there was no indication on the
programme about the subsequent follow-up of individuals shown to be at ‘increased risk’. Such individuals are likely to need further genetic counselling.” The British Society of Human Genetics sent a formal complaint to Ofcom and ITV over the documentary, which was screened last November (2007).

This Society represents UK scientists, clinicians and counsellors who provide genetics
services within the NHS or are engaged in research. Professor Hodgson added: ‘The application of genetics has great potential to improve healthcare by identifying people at significantly increased risk of specific disorders based on an evaluation of family history and genetic tests as appropriate.

“This is normally provided at a clinical genetics service that offers genetic counselling, risk assessment, a discussion of the implications to the family, and organisation of appropriate screening and management.

“The last thing we want to see is the confidence of the public in genetics undermined by tests like these, and unrealistic raising of expectations about the power of these tests to predict health risks.”