The personal genomics industry (aka direct-to-consumer genetic testing) has created a market for genetic tests as consumer services. This has taken genetic testing out of the clinic and into people’s homes. The industry is diverse offering tests for various health conditions and ancestry, as well as more dubious tests, such as ‘peace of mind’ paternity, ‘infidelity’ (or surreptitious testing), child talent, and even matchmaking. It is growing rapidly, but at present many tests are not standardized and the industry has not been subject to specific regulation. As with many other Internet based i ... More

The personal genomics industry (aka direct-to-consumer genetic testing) has created a market for genetic tests as consumer services. This has taken genetic testing out of the clinic and into people’s homes. The industry is diverse offering tests for various health conditions and ancestry, as well as more dubious tests, such as ‘peace of mind’ paternity, ‘infidelity’ (or surreptitious testing), child talent, and even matchmaking. It is growing rapidly, but at present many tests are not standardized and the industry has not been subject to specific regulation. As with many other Internet based industries, companies tend to rely on their electronic wrap contracts to govern their relationships with their consumers. This book provides an introduction to the world of personal genomics and examines the rise of the industry and its use of ‘wrap’ contracts, drawing upon the author’s review of the contracts of 71 companies that provide tests for health purposes. It explores the different types of tests available and the issues that this industry raises for law and for society.