Hidden Risks - Ancestry DNA Testing

Ancestry DNA testing and profiling has become a popular consumer attraction. There are a number of companies out there offering varying services, which include an information package explaining in general terms a statistical map with flags and pie-charts, which point to an individuals ethnic origins. Everything seems quite innocuous and simple on the surface. However, there are some significant risks associated with this process. Where it really gets tricky, is about the "caveats" which appear as a "waiver" with each application process and the "DNA-kits" which are shipped to the consumer. These caveats/waivers appear in the fine-print of the application process; and in very simple terms state that the service-provider reserves the right to store the profile data for future consideration; including selling the information to third party interests....these third party groups include Government Security Agencies, Big Pharma and Insurance Companies. You need to remember that DNA coding is in fact a very personal and individual "signature" which identifies an individual specifically and everything about them. It is used in forensic analysis to identify criminals, terrorists and high-risk threat agents. The profile also reveals all disease risks which may suggest if an individual is prone to cancer, heart-attacks, diabetes, Parkinsons, MS...and the list goes on. If we take a moment to think about it, Insurance Companies may acquire the data and refine Health Insurance Packages, that will greatly limit liability based on a statistical map of probability. For those of us that are aging and or need to acquire healthcare coverage we can see "exclusion" clauses in the protection package. Therefore, not having any control over this data-capture can in fact become a liability. In the very near future, it may well impede our travel opportunities, and insurance coverage whether it be health or life. The DNA profiling and Testing industry has not been adequately reviewed and regulated, making it a risky proposition. Anyone considering DNA testing should consider carefully all aspects before committing.