Potential risks of direct-to-consumer genetic check for most cancers threat

A brand new editorial was revealed in Oncotarget’s Quantity 15 on December 24, 2024, titled “Pitfalls and perils from FDA-approved germ-line most cancers predisposition checks.”

Authored by Dr. Wafik S. El-Deiry, Editor-in-Chief of Oncotarget, and Dr. Eli Y. Adashi from Brown College, the article highlights issues concerning the dangers of a newly permitted genetic check for most cancers threat. This check, known as the “Invitae Frequent Hereditary Cancers Panel,” was permitted in 2023 and examines 48 genes linked to inherited cancers, together with breast, ovarian, and Lynch syndrome-related cancers. Though the check will increase entry to genetic info, the authors warn that utilizing it with out skilled steerage might result in confusion, stress, and potential hurt.

One concern is that folks can order this check on-line with out consulting healthcare professionals or genetic counselors. With out skilled assist, customers would possibly wrestle to know their outcomes particularly in the event that they point out dangers which are unclear or troublesome to behave on. This will trigger pointless nervousness and confusion.

“The DTC possibility of germ-line testing for most cancers susceptibility must be discouraged given the dangers of hysteria, lack of ample interpretation for variants not strongly related to most cancers, potential for minors to be examined outdoors the healthcare system and potential for lack of follow-up if check outcomes should not shared with well being care professionals or by no means make it into the medical report.”

The editorial additionally factors out moral and medical points when minors use these checks. If a baby’s check is finished with out medical oversight, outcomes may not be added to their well being data, making follow-up care more durable to handle and probably risking their long-term well being.

Price is one other concern. These checks are sometimes not coated by insurance coverage, which might place a monetary burden on households who would possibly want further testing or medical recommendation.

The researchers emphasize that genetic testing for most cancers threat ought to at all times embrace healthcare suppliers and genetic counseling. This ensures customers totally perceive their outcomes and obtain correct steerage. The authors additionally name on the US Meals and Drug Administration (FDA) to offer clear guidelines for utilizing these checks, significantly for minors.

In conclusion, whereas genetic testing holds nice potential for bettering most cancers prevention and care, its advantages should not come at the price of security and public well being. Accountable use of those checks would require collaboration between regulators, healthcare professionals, and testing firms to deal with the dangers and guarantee these instruments are used successfully.