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Saving the $2,500 and Getting Alzheimer's Anyway Still Seems Like a Raw Deal

Dec 18, 2007

Discover magazine's January issue includes an article on personal genomics, leading with Navigenics' plan to offer kits for $2,500 in the spring. "Along with results telling you the genetic disorders you can look forward to, you receive advice on how to reduce your chances of developing up to 20 diseases and an offer of genetic counseling sessions," the article says. "But paying $2,500 to find out that you are predisposed to Alzheimer’s, which has no cure and few treatment options, could seem like a raw deal."

The story consults with Craig Venter, who says he doesn't regret finding out about his risk of Alzheimer’s and that knowing about his predisposition has given him the opportunity to start taking lifestyle steps to prevent onset of the disease.

 

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