What is direct-to-consumer genetic testing?

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing is marketed towards consumers directly, whether it be by print advertising, television, online or in shops.

The genetic test may offer to analyse your ancestry or can look at potential disease risks to your health. Whilst it can be interesting for a consumer to do, the tests are not heavily regulated, which means that the quality of these services cannot easily be attained.

What other names does the genetic test kit have?

DTC genetic testing may also be known under the following names:
 

• Home DNA testing
• DTC genetic testing
• At-home genetic testing
• Direct-access genetic testing
   

What information can I expect to get from DTC genetic testing?

There are many different types of tests available, which tell you about your ancestry, kinship, lifestyle factors and disease risk. 
 

What does a test typically involve?

The genetic testing kits contain instructions and equipment for collecting a saliva sample, which is then sent back to the DTC company for analysis. The interpretation of genetic data is complex and, in many cases, the DTC genetic test may reveal false positive and false negatives results. 
 

What information does a DTC test provide?

The genetic tests provide a wide range of health information, including:
 

• Polygenic risk scores 
• Genotypes at specific points
• Carrier screening
• Uninterpreted raw genetic data
   

How do people interpret DTC results?

The tests are marketed and sold as providing answers, which may leave patients expecting results that will clearly predict the future of their health. The genetic test results are often received without having a discussion with a health professional, which means that there is no way to address potential mismatches between expectations and reality.