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FDA Will Evaluate Walgreen's DNA Testing Kit

By HERWriter
 
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Walgreens isn't making their DNA testing kits available just yet. The FDA has contacted Pathway Genomics who developed the DNA test. The FDA believes it should decide whether or not the DNA test should be accessible to consumers. Pathway Genomics seems not to be perturbed, being convinced that its test will pass muster with the FDA.

Thomas Goetz, an editor for Wired and an author, sees the issue as being an old one. Goetz recognizes the attitude that believes doctors should pick and choose what their patients are allowed to hear and he questions its validity, believing that patients are able to think for themselves.

Katherine Hobson finds it intriguing as well. "Of course, there are plenty of other concerns about getting your DNA information as easily as you’d buy toothpaste; following up on results might lead to unnecessary tests and procedures, for one. But Goetz’s notion that, as he says, 'we don’t need the FDA or docs as info gatekeepers,' is an interesting one. Readers, what do you think?"

http://blogs.wsj.com/health/2010/05/13/is-the-publics-readiness-for-dna-info-underestimated

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Jody Smith
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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