Genetic testing and consumer choice

What would it take to make you stop smoking, cut down your alcohol intake or eat more greens? Would personalised health advice based on a genetic test do the trick? In this week's BioNews we report on the criticism faced by Sciona, the UK company trying to market just such a service. Genetics campaigners argue that its 'You and Your Genes' test fails to offer consumers sufficient information and counselling and also raises genetic privacy issues. But just how real are these concerns? Should the test be withdrawn from sale, as its critics have demanded?

The test at the centre of the controversy examines differences in a handful of genes that make enzymes involved in general 'body maintenance', such as removing toxins, absorbing nutrients and mopping up harmful chemicals. It is by no means comprehensive, mainly because many of the genes involved in these processes have yet to be identified. But Sciona claim that when used in conjunction with a detailed questionnaire, the test can form the basis of personalised dietary and lifestyle advice. These reports invariably stress the importance of giving up smoking, combined with regular exercise, a diet high in fruit and vegetables and a moderate alcohol intake - advice that applies to almost everyone, regardless of their genes.

The test does not include any of the genetic variations known to be involved in serious illnesses such as cancer or Alzheimer's disease, nor does it claim to. As such, it is difficult to see how genetic counselling, would be either relevant or useful to Sciona's customers. Also, unlike the results of tests for genetic diseases, the Sciona test results are not of a particularly sensitive nature - employers and insurers probably wouldn't be interested in how much broccoli you should eat.

Perhaps the real issue surrounding the 'You and Your Genes' test is simply that the results can only be used as a basis for very general health advice - for the majority of the population, genetic technology hasn't yet reached (and may never reach) a point where it can accurately predict the onset of common illnesses. But for some people, parting with £120 and reading a 60-page report may provide them with the willpower to make lifestyle changes that previously seemed too difficult, or irrelevant. As consumers, we are all capable of making personal healthcare decisions, and, provided we have access to accurate information, should be free to do so.