Genetic testing is currently subject to little oversight, despite the significant ethical issues involved. Repeated recommendations
for increased regulation of the genetic testing market have led to little progress in the policy arena. A 2005 Internet search
identified 13 websites offering health-related genetic testing for direct purchase by the consumer. Further examination of
these sites showed that overall, biotech companies are not providing enough information for consumers to make well-informed
decisions; they are not consistently offering genetic counseling services; and some sites even offer tests with little evidence
of clinical value. This article aims to raise company and consumer awareness about the ethical concerns surrounding the direct-to-consumer
marketing of health-related genetic tests. It also suggests ways that biotech companies can bring their services to the public
in an ethically responsible manner, without increased regulatory oversight.
Keywords direct-to-consumer marketing - direct-to-consumer sales - DNA test - genetic test - Internet - marketing ethics
Submitted for the Special Issue on Ethical Issues in Biotechnology.