Open access genetic testing and pharmacogenetics: what are the individual and collective issues in Europe?
Published on 2 October 2007
Pierre, 55, found a website offering a genetic test to determine his risk of developing a cardiovascular accident, namely thrombosis (vein blockage). He decided to take the test and ordered the kit. It's easy to use: just scrape the inside of a cheek with a spatula and send the sample back to the address indicated. Three weeks later, the results arrive by e-mail:
"Risk of developing thrombosis 4 times greater than in the general population" Will individuals soon be offered the means to establish for themselves their predisposition to a large number of diseases, and thus "predict" their future health? What is the quality and reliability of the tests on offer? How can we ensure that test results are correctly interpreted and understood if the individual's history is not taken into account? What information is provided to the individual in the case of a test carried out without individualized medical supervision? How can we guarantee the confidentiality of the data obtained on individuals? What are the implications of such practices for the healthcare system and for health economics? How should these practices be supervised?