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. 2009 Jul;17(7):857-9.
doi: 10.1038/ejhg.2008.246. Epub 2009 Mar 4.

Genetic horoscopes: is it all in the genes? Points for regulatory control of direct-to-consumer genetic testing

Christine Patch  1 , Jorge Sequeiros, Martina C Cornel
Affiliations

Genetic horoscopes: is it all in the genes? Points for regulatory control of direct-to-consumer genetic testing

Christine Patch et al. Eur J Hum Genet. 2009 Jul.

Abstract

The development of tests for genetic susceptibility to common complex diseases has raised concerns. These concerns relate to evaluation of the scientific and clinical validity and utility of the tests, quality assurance of laboratories and testing services, advice and protection for the consumer and the appropriate regulatory and policy response. How these concerns are interpreted and addressed is an ongoing debate. If the possibility of using the discoveries from genomic science to improve health is to be realised without losing public confidence, then improvements in the evaluation and mechanisms for control of supply of tests may be as important as the science itself.

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Comment in

  • Direct to consumer genetic tests.
    Patch C, Sequeiros J, Cornel MC. Patch C, et al. Eur J Hum Genet. 2009 Sep;17(9):1111. doi: 10.1038/ejhg.2009.66. Epub 2009 Apr 29. Eur J Hum Genet. 2009. PMID: 19401718 Free PMC article. No abstract available.

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