The direct-to-consumer genetic testing market could nearly triple in the next few years, HealthcareITNews says.
A report out from Kalorama Information estimates that the market could grow to $310 million in 2022 from about $99 million this past year. According to HealthcareITNews, Kalorama attributes this growth potential to increased interest from consumers and the easing of regulatory rules.
Consumers are more and more interested in taking control of their health and its management, HealthcareITNews says. Kalorama adds in a press release that DTC genetic testing follows on a push that began in the 1980 for patients to have access their lab tests as well as use of the internet to find medical information.
But, HealthcareITNews notes that increased use of DTC genetic testing will also affect the doctor-patient relationship as patients arrive at their doctors' offices with testing results. It adds that many physicians aren't well versed in genetic and interpreting such test results. In a statement, Kalorama points out that many DTC companies have employed genetic counselors.
However, "demand by the consumer to unlock their genetic health information will likely triumph over the adversities," Kalorama analyst Mary Ann Crandall says in a statement.