The Ethical and Legal Implications of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing

This thesis critically evaluates the regulation of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing. The regulatory status quo is based in an individualistic conception of autonomy: this is contrasted with the egalitarian and solidarity principles underpinning the NHS. The latter are incompatible with a market in DTC genetic testing which benefits only a privileged group of test users while creating disadvantage for the worst-off through overuse of shared resources. This thesis concludes that the risk of detrimentally affecting public healthcare provision can be mitigated by ensuring that test users have legal recourse against DTC test providers and by establishing population genetic screening programmes.