CoE on Genetic Testing

Two new documents are available on the CoE website related to genetic testing:

 

1. The first one conatins the replies recieved by the CoE during the consultation period on the document on Predictivity, Genetic Testing and Insurance. The purpose of the consultation was to elicit comments and replies namely from bodies representative of the different fields concerned (in particular, patients, consumers, insurers and reinsurers, doctors, geneticists, ombudspersons), at national and international levels, on proposals and questions regarding the use of predictive health-related data, in particular genetic data, in the field of insurance.

2. The other one is a brochure on Genetic Tests for Health Purposes.Genetic testing is a source of considerable advances in human health, and will increasingly form part of standard medical practice. Its use is not without implications for the persons concerned, and for their family members. Results are complex to analyse and often with limited predictive value, so it is important to get appropriate support when a genetic test is envisaged and on subsequent receipt of results. The availability of direct-to-consumer genetic test, online especially, outside any individualised medical supervision, raises particular concerns. Therefore, it is important for everyone to have access to objective general information about the nature of these tests, their application in the health field, and the extent but also the limits of results.