Genetic counselors are specially trained to help people make decisions about genetic testing. Before testing, counselors try to assist the person in becoming psychologically prepared to cope with either result. The approach taken by most professionals is called non-directive counseling, which means that information rather than advice is provided. Counselors present information about the risks and benefits involved in genetic testing, effectiveness of proposed test, meaning of results, and whether the disease can be prevented, detected early or treated. The decision is ultimately that of the individual.

Once the results are known, couselors can help the individual and the family to understand and adjust to the results. If necessary, counselors can refer an individual to the appropriate specialist for health care.

Direct to Consumer (DTC) advertising of prescription drugs is the subject of an ongoing debate among health officials over the relative merits, and the advertising of gene related products and services are an even greater potential concern. Direct marketing could include advertisements for drugs and testing procedures that have previously been available only through licensed medical providers. With the growth of so-called “storefront clinics” a patient can get XRays, MRI’s, blood tests and genetic testing services on a walk-in, pay as you go basis.

Some health professionals, including genetic counselors, believe that the direct marketing of genetic screening tests to the public may lead to disappointment and perhaps harm. A major concern among these professionals is that there is a complex set of facts that may not be clear to potential consumers. The benefits and liabilities may not be presented openly and counseling on the range of potential outcomes and consequences is not available. Just as the perceived risk of an airline crash is greater after a widely publicized accident, a person’s perceived value of a genetic screen may be greater after a relative’s diagnosis and a DTC advertisement on the disease genes.

Importantly, there is currently no Federal or State regulatory agency responsible for evaluating the DTC advertising of genetic services. In contrast, federal law requires that drug companies can only advertise drugs that have received FDA approval and the list of possible side effects must be included.

Currently there exist about 28 different tests that can show your genetic predisposition. A list of them is available here.