Commission agrees framework to regulate genetic tests sold direct to consumers

Companies selling genetic tests directly to consumers must provide accurate and easy to understand information to enable purchasers to give fully informed consent, according to the first international framework on this rapidly expanding market that was agreed this week. Consent requires that users understand the nature of the test and the potential implications of the results.

The Common Framework of Principles for Direct to Consumer Genetic Testing Services has been developed by an international working group convened by the Human Genetics Commission, the UK government’s advisory body on new developments in human genetics. The group incorporated responses from a worldwide consultation before agreeing the final framework at a meeting …