Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing has provided consumers with a relatively cheap, quick and easy way to get to know their DNA better. There are benefits but many legal and ethical issues have surfaced with rise of DTC genetic testing. On Wednesday, April 4, 2018, the Honours College Student Association (HCSA) invited Prof. Stephen DU, assistant professor from the Faculty of Law, to introduce and discuss these issues with students.
Switching fluently between English and Chinese, the professor introduced the basics of genetics in simple terms for those who were unfamiliar with the field. The students learned about the clinical and commercial uses of genetic testing through interesting videos. Legal and ethical issues were brought up in the process, and Prof. DU gave a detailed account on how the governments of different countries addressed them, as well as the current status quo for genetic testing. The talk concluded with an interactive Q & A session during which thought-provoking questions about the future of genetic testing and additional regulatory measures were raised.
