The Great Debate - buying genetic tests on the web

Child & Family Research Institute Mini Med School XI Oct 13 - Nov 24, 2010 Traditionally, genetic tests have been available only through healthcare providers such as physicians, but now direct-to-consumer genetic testing is becoming readily available. This form of testing refers to genetic tests such as those for ancestry, health and paternity testing that are marketed directly to consumers via television, print advertisements, or the Internet. Consumers are notified of their results by mail or over the telephone, or the results are posted online, and may never see a health professional. A spirited debate on the many benefits and concerns around direct-to-consumer genetic testing will be followed by an interactive discussion on the topic.

• Dr. Tracy Tucker, Fellow, Clinical Molecular Genetics, BC Children’s and Women’s Hospital
• Dr. Millan Patel, Associate Clinician Scientist, Genetics & Health, CFRI; Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Medical Genetics, UBC; Research Director, Rare Disease Foundation
• Dr. Sylvie Langlois, Clinical Investigator, Genetics & Health, CFRI; Professor, Department of Medical Genetics, UBC; Director, Residency Training Program, Medical Genetics, UBC; Medical Director, BC Prenatal Genetic Screening Program, BC Children’s Hospital
• Dr. Jan Friedman, Acting Executive Director, CFRI; Scientist, Genetics & Health, CFRI; Acting Associate Dean (Research), Faculty of Medicine, UBC; Professor, Department of Medical Genetics, UBC