A gene-testing company, 23andMe, announced it is seeking approval from the Food and Drug Administration for its personal DNA testing.
According to an article in Time Magazine, this allows people to take a look into their genetic makeup and possibly a look into what it could mean for them, healthwise, in the future. With scientists reporting new gene-based discoveries almost daily, which enables them to zero in on the cause of diseases, it is likely this DNA testing could give people a look into health issues they could face at some time in the future.
The company is offering a saliva sample analysis for $299. This information is then shared with the person via a secure website, which includes access to ancestry features as well as health reports. This includes risks for diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson's and whether they carry the gene for cystic fibrosis.
Is this something that you think should get FDA approval and be available to anybody who wants it? Would you like a glimpse into your genetic makeup and what it might mean in potential health issues at some time in your future? Tell us in comments.
I'm not really sure how I feel about this. If it would save the life of a loved one, I'd be all for it as a means to secure the right treatment but for myself ... I'm just not sure!