The easy access to the direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing services has led to a number of people paying up huge sums to find out if they have any gene variants which may be associated with any disease. Only a few of them consult a genetic counselor regarding their reports. A survey reported that only 4% of people visited the genetic counselor after receiving their results. If the test results are positive, people start panicking and self-medicating. Many incidents of self-medication report intake of unnecessary supplements and skewed diets This has created a sense of panic among healthcare providers.
Source: Storrs C. Patients Armed With Their Own Genetic Data Raise Tough Questions. Health Affairs. 2018 May;37(5):690–3. Should FDA approve of direct-to-customer genetic testing services?
