Beware of Genetic Ancestry Testing

Before reading the article “The Science and Business of Genetic Ancestry Testing,” I did not know how wildly inaccurate the tests could be. The many authors of this piece unanimously urge people to exercise caution when purchasing these types of tests because of three reasons: (1) they “can have a profound impact on individuals and communities,” (2) “the assumptions and limitations of these tests make them less informative than many realize,” and (3) “commercialization has led to misleading practices that reinforce misconceptions” (399). It is unfortunate that the business of genetic ancestry testing is not one that is dedicated to being thorough with its research. The companies seem to have settled with abiding by the easiest procedure as opposed to the best one. However, with their business model apparently working well, they have no pressure to change their testing methods. Instead of educating the public, these businesses are leading people to value erroneous information about a very important matter.

Moreover, I am not sure that most people are reading these types of articles about the dangers of genetic ancestry testing. Many of those who pay for genetic ancestry tests mistakenly think that they are in fact true. A drastic alteration in this environment can only come with a fundamental change in the business. If those organizations with better information can enter the genetic ancestry testing game, then there is a possibility that the whole business of testing can start to turn in the right direction. Therefore, I am in full support of the authors’ statement at the end of the article that: “[W]e encourage ASHG and other professional genetic and anthropological associations to develop policy statements regarding genetic ancestry testing” (400). Since it is unlikely that people will stop signing up for genetic ancestry testing, anthropologists should support more accurate testing.