DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER (DTC) GENETIC TESTING SERVICES

NOTICE PAPER NO. 2001 
NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER
FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON OR AFTER 6 JULY 2023

Name and Constituency of Member of ParliamentMr Yip Hon WengMP for Yio Chu Kang GRC

Question No. 4799

To ask the Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry will consider implementing regulations for direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing services to address concerns related to privacy, accuracy, and consumer protection; (b) what is the Ministry doing to enhance public awareness about the potential sharing and commercial use of genetic data obtained from DTC tests by third parties; and (c) how will individuals have access to accurate information, genetic counselling, and guidance in interpreting test results to mitigate any risks of misinterpretation and unnecessary anxiety.

Answer

1 The Ministry of Health (MOH) takes a risk-based approach to the regulation of genetic testing.  Aligned to this approach, we regulate clinical genetic testing but not direct-to-consumer (DTC) tests used for general wellness, ancestry and nutrigenomics purposes.  

2 Nevertheless, MOH has issued a guidance document in May 2021 which outlines good practices for providers offering non-clinical genetic testing and educates consumers on the risks of such testing. These risks include exaggerated claims, the possible sharing and commercial use of genetic data obtained from DTC tests by third parties, and the lack of proper medical interpretation of test results. Consumers should exercise care to assess for themselves the suitability and quality of such non-clinical tests. Consumers need to read the test provider’s terms and conditions carefully before using such tests, contact the provider or approach their doctors when in doubt. 

3 MOH will continue to monitor the development of DTC genetic testing and review our regulatory initiatives and consumer education efforts to ensure the safety, privacy, and welfare of the public.