Rapid advances in genomic-based sciences are facilitating the collection of a burgeoning amount of knowledge about the role
that genomic factors play in human disease. The resulting body of knowledge provides hope for more effective treatments and
eventually the prevention of diseases and disorders affecting children, adults, and families (Feero, Guttmacher, & Collins,
2008; Guttmacher & Collins, 2005). However, this knowledge and technology could be used inappropriately, resulting in harm
to the medical, psychological, and social well-being of those pursuing testing (Hudson, Javitt, Burke, & Byers, 2007; Robertson,
2003). The rapidly increasing breadth and availability of genomic tests are leading to heightened concerns about their application
in clinical settings, public health, and outside of the health-care setting, through direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing (Hudson
et al., 2007; Javitt, Stanley, & Hudson, 2004).
The views expressed in this chapter are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position
of the National Institutes of Health, the Department Health and Human Services, or the US Government.