23andMe is a genetic testing company of growing popularity that, for a fee, allows users to get their genes tested and analyzed. Through this process, a person could get a look into over 200diseases and conditions, heritage, and more and compare their results to others. The information gained would be used for education and further research. Recently, however, the Food and Drug Administration has made the company stop analyzing the genes while they review the company. The FDA claimed that 23andMe was not approved by the government to release information regarding diseases. Fear over consumers using the information to make life changing and drastic choices is the FDA's primary concern and that consumers would be more likely to take matters into their own hands rather than consult a professional. Another fear was that 23andMe would sell the data gained from consumers to other organizations, though the company has firmly said they would not share information without user consent.
The idea that 23andMe has been restricted in sharing the knowledge which seems to rightfully belong to the consumer seems strange. While it may make a person take unnecessary precautions it could also help a person make a life saving decision. Not to mention it is a portal for education. 23andMe claims that if approved by the FDA, they will go back to giving out health related information based on gene analysis and those who purchase their gene kit and do not get have health results will get them.
Article: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/23andme-to-still-provide-ancestry-raw-genetics-data-during-fda-review/
23andme Official notice: https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-only-notice/
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