What Can At-Home Genetic Tests Tell Me About My Health?

How Do At-Home Genetic Tests Work?

• At-home genetic tests use a sample of saliva, blood or a cheek swab that is collected at home and sent to a private laboratory.

• Your DNA is extracted from the sample and tested for a limited number of specific genes that may be tied to ancestry or health risk.

• Each testing company selects which genes to analyze. Results of different tests can vary and even conflict with one another.

• A physician referral or prescription is not required for most at-home tests.

What Kind of Information Can I Learn From an At-Home Genetic Test?

• Tests may provide genetic information about your ancestors, ethnic origin, or family relationships.

• Many tests include screening for certain inherited health conditions.

• Some at-home tests screen for groups of genes that are linked to increased risk for developing certain health problems like cancer or heart disease.

Can At-Home Genetic Tests Accurately Predict Health Risk?

• Although genes can significantly influence health, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors like diet, exercise and family medical history also affect the risk of developing a disease.

• Most health conditions are influenced by several genes, which may have thousands of variants. At-home tests only look for some of these genes and variants. No test offers a truly comprehensive health risk assessment.

• It can be confusing to interpret genetic testing without the help of a professional genetic

• Most at-home tests are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The quality and accuracy of these tests is unknown.

• Be wary of companies that sell supplements or fitness products based on the results of genetic testing. These are generally not proven to have any health benefit.

Is There Any Harm Associated with At-Home Genetic Testing?

• Genetic tests generally cannot tell for certain whether someone will experience health problems. The results of genetic health risk assessments may lead to confusion and worry. This can affect quality of life and be a distraction from general principles of healthy living.

• Because at-home tests do not test for every possible risky gene, it is possible to have normal testing but still be at increased genetic risk for certain conditions such as breast cancer.

• Insurance companies generally do not cover the cost of at-home genetic testing.

Are There Privacy or Legal Concerns with At-Home Genetic Tests?

• Each company that offers at-home genetic testing has its own policy on how to handle your personal genetic and health information. Some testing companies share data with pharmaceutical companies or law enforcement. It is important to research these policies before deciding to complete genetic testing.

• There are some legal protections to prevent discrimination based on genetic testing. Life and disability insurers may still use genetic risk as a part of their assessment.

What Are Some Alternatives to At-Home Genetic Testing?

• Talk with your doctor if you are concerned about genetic health risk. Based on family history and existing health conditions, your doctor may suggest personalized strategies for screening, treatment, and lifestyle modifications without the need for genetic testing.

• In some cases, your doctor may suggest that you see a genetic counselor. A genetic counselor will ask about your family and personal health history and provide recommendations for testing if indicated. A genetic counselor can also help interpret what test results mean for you and your relatives.

• If you do at-home genetic testing, consider sharing the results with your doctor so that they can help with interpretation and next steps.