Genetic ancestry tests are they believable, should they be trusted, are they 100% accurate?
Recently we’ve seen a huge growth in simple DNA tests. The genetic ancestry tests give a rough estimation of a person’s family line. With the tests growing in popularity, questions are being raised as to the accuracy of the results. The dilema is how could you possibly prove it one way or the other?
Some concerns are being raised since some genetic experts fear consumers are not fully aware of the tests limitations. With no quality assurance, how can anyone know the results are 100% accurate.
For several years genetic ancestry testing has been used for understanding genetic differences in things like blood type or genetic diseases in large populations of people.
On an individual basis though, some could read far too much into the results or even misinterpret the results.
A recent expert in genetic ancestry testing claimed it is different from direct-to-consumer genetic tests for health information, but the group has concerns about those too.
Should all genetic testing on this level be regulated. If so, would the consumer be prepared to pay for the extra costs? Some would say that most people who spend that type of money are willing to spend the time on the Internet educating themselves and thereby understanding the results. Much information is available on the testing companies sites, forums, and elsewhere. It does seem a little odd that only now they are making this an issue when the general public can access the tests at a reasonable price. I didn’t hear this “expert” being quoted when the tests costs thousands of dollars and only what you might consider important people were being tested.
So although the results are a very good guide for a clear direction of which line or race you come from, the failure is more likely to come from a wrong conclusion along the way. Proof that a little knowledge can become genetically a dangerous thing!
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