FTC Warns Public about Home Genetic Tests

The Federal Trade Commission has issued a public advisory notice urging consumers to be cautious when purchasing at-home genetic tests. Citing statements and studies from FDA and the Centers for Disease Control, the FTC says that some of the tests lack scientific validity and others are only meaningful in the context of a full medical evaluation.

July 31, 2006

1 Min Read
FTC Warns Public about Home Genetic Tests

In particular, the commission says, people should be wary of claims of measuring the risk of developing a particular disease and the likelihood of being able to withstand environmental exposures. While it is probably not fair to characterize all such products as snake oil, it is also prudent to put the results from these tests in their proper context. That means consulting your doctor.

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