Member-only story
If you’ve shared your DNA information with genetic companies such as Ancestry and 23andMe, chances are your DNA information is being used in more ways than you can count. The sad reality of it all is that SO many people aren’t even aware of the way their data is being utilized when they decide to share a swab of saliva in return of knowing the ancestral heritage and/or a personalized health report. Below are some of the risks of sharing your DNA information with consumer genetic companies that everyone is entitled to know:
Insurance companies can increase their premiums or deny coverage altogether.
If your genetic test reveals that you are at high risk for a particular disease, chances are your premium is going to increase. Life insurance companies are selective to whom they cover and the amount they charge. There are many countries, like Australia that are bound to share their genetic test results when applying for life insurance.
DNA testing companies do sell your data to the third parties
You pay $100 or so for a DNA test kit, send them a swab of saliva and wait a couple of weeks to find out the results. Little do you know that the results…
