A new DNA test will be available at more than 6,000 Walgreen drug stores by the end of the week. However, there are big concerns about the tests.Your corner drugstore could soon hold the key to unlock your genetic code and your potential for disease. It's a $30 home DNA test kit.
"It gives me the chance to be pre-emptive about it. It's always better to know in advance," Damion Sanders said.
After taking the test; you place your DNA order online. The company says for $79 you can find out how you'll react to certain medications, $179 will tell you what bad genes you might pass on to your baby; and for $179 you can find out what diseases you may develop.Other companies sell DNA test kits online but Pathways is the first to do so in stores. The FDA says all DNA test kits come under its jurisdiction, and that without approval Pathways could face legal trouble.
Medical ethicists wonder what people might do if they find out they have the potential for getting an incurable disease or would they abort a baby if they find out they may pass along a defective gene.
"It kind of freaks me out, actually. I'm not sure that would be something I would be interested in," Lisa Indelicato said.
"I think that's an unbelievable help, but then again, where do we stop. You don't want to find out too much information," Lucas Hall said.
And if that information is bad; the company promises counselors will be available on the phone at no additional cost.
For more information, visit the company's website here: Pathway DNA & Genetic Testing
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