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Published online 28 May 2008 | Nature | doi:10.1038/453570a
Genetic testing for everyone
Private companies are starting to test customers' DNA for gene variants linked to an increased risk of conditions such as obesity or Alzheimer's disease. Helen Pearson looks at whether knowledge really is power when it comes to disease avoidance.
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Although the expectation that prediction based on genetic testing, 2-3% higher risks of obesity and T2DM, for example, will work as a strong motivator for changing life-style behavior to escape disease onset may not look realistic, direct-to-consumer genetic testing will bear fruit in the long run as a healthcare product.