Regulating the use of genetic tests: Is Dutch law an example for other countries with regard to DTC genetic testing?

Abstract

<p>Several European countries are considering the regulation of Direct-To-Consumer genetic tests via internet in order to protect the public. This paper addresses the question whether the Dutch Act on Population Screening, an internationally widely praised piece of legislation, could serve as an example for other European countries. While the Act adequately protects individuals against (potential) harmful screenings programmes, it falls short when it comes to offering protection against genetic tests offered to the public through the internet by commercial firms. The Act should therefore be amended, also to secure consistency with European legal standards.</p>

Keywords

• regulation
• direct-to-consumer genetic testing
• Dutch Act on Population Screening
• European legal standards