VKGN: "A DNA test of a commercial supplier makes one believe in false security"

Education

The VKGN has been concerned for some time with the support and quality of this so-called genetic testing directly to the consumer. The immediate reason for this report is constituted by the results of a test to which the DNA teacher, Marc van Mil of UMC Utrecht, and the teacher in Dorian biology have teamed up for mission to pay attention to their training.

Breast Cancer

Both sent their DNA to iGene, but Dorien did so knowing that she was carrying a BRCA1 mutation. This mutation gives him a significantly increased risk of breast cancer. However, the application of iGene's "genetic passport" has reported a lower risk of breast cancer, followed by several lifestyle tips to help prevent breast cancer.

Suggestion

"iGene says that she measures the risk of breast cancer, but then misses this life-threatening mutation. I immersed myself in the DNA technology that they use and I conclude that they themselves must know that they will never be able to keep that promise. & # 39; according to Mil. "And in an online brochure, they are only promoting their DNA test to people who suspect the existence of a hereditary form of breast cancer in their family." Dorien is particularly touched by iGene's suggestion that, by living healthier, she could prevent this inherited form of breast cancer.

Unjustly a reassuring result

The VKGN asks the system inspection to critically examine iGene's working method and communication. Not only the information on and the reliability of the test, but also the lack of support before and after the test give the cause. "There is a good chance that people run the risk of performing such an online DNA test without preparation and without prior knowledge and not paying enough attention to the possible consequences." says Dr. Marieke van Dooren, clinical geneticist. "And so some people get a reassuring result without deserving it. I find it absolutely dangerous. "