Download Walgreens DNA ‘Spit Kit’ Debate

Walgreens Genetic ‘Spit Kit’
Debate
Rhonda Knapp
Waunakee High School
Biotech: Beyond the Basics June 2010
The ISSUE
• Pathway Genomics ,San Diego, has
announced that beginning Friday, shoppers
at most of Walgreens' 7,500 stores across
the U.S. can buy an over-the-counter genetic
test . The test would scan their genes for the
possibility that they'll develop such
conditions as Alzheimer's disease, breast
cancer, diabetes, risk of heart attack, or
multiple sclerosis. And can also be used to
predict whether their children will be blind or
obese.
The QUESTION
• Should Walgreens be able to sell a DNA
testing kit over-the-counter?
– What are the benefits?
– What are the controversies?
• You will be using the internet to research
both sides of this issue.
Sites to get you started
• Genetic Testing Coming to a Walgreens near
you.
• myFOX Health: Genetic Testing
• FDA Cracks Down on DTC Genetic Testing also
look at related posts (Council For Responsible
Genetics Blog)
• Walgreen to hold off selling genetic test kits
(Jacksonville Journal Courier)
• FDA Puts the Brakes on Pathway-Walgreens
Pairing; What’s Next for DTC?
• Letter to Pathway Genomics Corporation (FDA)
Questions to Inspire Debate
• Should Walgreens (and other drug stores)
sell these over-the-counter genetic testing
kits?
• Should the FDA have the power to
regulate this?
• What impact will positive results have on
the individuals?
• Should family history discovered be
shared?