Are You Ready for an Online Genetic Test?

For the right person, an online genetic test can be both fun and useful. But for someone else, it might be overwhelming. Or even worse, reveal things they wish they hadn’t learned.

The tricky part is figuring out whether a genetic test that can trace your ancestry, reveal potentially deadly disease risks or even teach you about some of your physical traits is right for you. Probably the best way to find out is by talking to a genetic counselor. They’ve thought through (and probably seen) all of the side effects of a genetic test. But most people don’t do this.

Lots of people don’t even know about genetic counselors. The ones that do may not want to be bothered or even realize such a talk might be helpful. If you don’t have an inkling already about some of the pitfalls of a genetic test, why would you seek out counseling?

Another way that might help people decide if one of these tests is right for them would be to let them know what some of the unintended consequences...