And now … " 23andMe " !


• Genetic testing company " 23andMe " ( we have 22 pairs of chromosomes + two sex chromosomes ) is the latest to launch its personal genome service in the UK, after it was banned in the US. It claims not to share such data with insurance companies without a person’s consent and is backed by Google.


• It allows people to send their saliva in a testing kit to have their DNA screened for genes associated with certain inherited conditions. The UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency says the test can be used " with caution ". It’s not clear who would pay for any further tests or treatment based on the results – why should it be the NHS ?



• One of the thought-provoking aspects of this test is its cost - £ 125 ( with 10% discount for more tests ) ! The human genome was mapped in its entirety in 2000 and having your genes mapped has previously cost upwards of £ 1000.


• Most illnesses are not the result of single gene abnormalities – they involve many genes interplaying with the environment , social and other biological factors.

The minority who are in high risk groups – like strong family history of breast cancer, and Ashkenazi Jews ( also at increased risk of breast cancer ), probably SHOULD be screened for breast cancer risk genes, like BRCA ( mutations stop DNA repair and increase risk of breast, also ovary or prostate cancer ) - provided they understand the consequences, and are prepared to make decisions such as having mastectomy ( even when there’s no breast cancer ) based on the results. If there is a suspected genetic pattern within a family, doctors and NHS genetic clinics are geared up to discuss the implications.


• There’s no evidence so far that genetic screening of the apparently healthy population would result in lives with less disease or premature death, or happier lives !


• Apart from the cost ( now much less than previously ) – what exactly would someone plan to do with the results ? How might it reduce the risk of premature death, and increase good quality years ? For most of us, we don’t need to pay for a genetic test to achieve these aims ! We already know what to do : don’t smoke, drink alcohol in moderation, eat sensibly, exercise regularly, watch your weight, aim for a job you like … and choose your parents – it’s in the genes
!

https://www.23andme.com/en-gb/health/