Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Genetic Testing

Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) genetic testing allows individuals to obtain health and ancestry information from their DNA without needing a healthcare provider. Customers typically order a testing kit online, provide a saliva sample, and send it back for analysis. The company then sends reports that may include details about genetic predispositions to certain health conditions, traits, and ancestral backgrounds. DTC genetic testing empowers people to learn more about their genetics but also raises questions about privacy, the accuracy of results, and the implications of understanding one's genetic information.