Understanding the risks and benefits of direct-to-consumer genetic tests for health
Evaluating the Risks and Benefits of the Next Generation of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Tests
This study is looking at how home genetic tests, like those that show your risk for diseases such as breast cancer, can affect your health choices and outcomes, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding the benefits and risks of these tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10678974 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing on health risks, particularly focusing on tests that reveal genetic predispositions to diseases like breast cancer. It aims to develop a new evaluation method that does not require partnerships with DTC companies, allowing for a broader analysis of various genetic tests available to consumers. By assessing both the potential benefits and risks associated with these tests, the research seeks to provide valuable insights into how genetic information can affect health decisions and outcomes for individuals. The study will gather data on consumer experiences and the implications of receiving genetic risk information.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals considering or who have undergone direct-to-consumer genetic testing, particularly those with a family history of breast cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who have not engaged with or are not interested in genetic testing may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could empower patients with better understanding and management of their genetic health risks.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on DTC genetic testing, this approach is novel as it does not rely on partnerships with testing companies, making it a unique contribution to the field.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kilbride, Madison K — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Kilbride, Madison K
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.