We read with interest Kate Whitehead’s recent article, “ DNA testing: forget about your past, what’s in your future? ” (July 28). While direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests are less costly and faster than clinical genetic tests, we believe consumers in Hong Kong have to be cautious about using the results for health management. The government should also combat misinformation about such tests through effective law enforcement and education campaigns. Researchers point out that DTC genetic testing cannot conclusively predict whether a consumer will develop a particular disease, as such tests only focus on a small range of genetic variants, whereas risks of disease are determined by many genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. A research study on the marketing practices of two DTC genetic testing companies in Hong Kong also found that the service providers can exaggerate the predictive value of the test results and give prospective consumers the false impression that taking the tests would empower them to take control of their health. Last year, Mr Ramon Yuen Hoi-man of the Democratic Party slammed some DTC companies in Hong Kong for making misleading claims about the accuracy of their tests in predicting children’s intelligence. Although the Customs and Excise Department promised to investigate whether the companies had breached the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, in response to our inquiry the department said it had only received one complaint about DTC testing services in 2016, which fell outside the purview of the ordinance. To better protect the public interest, the government should more proactively monitor and regulate the marketing practices of DTC companies. According to a Department of Health pamphlet on DTC genetic tests, the degree of credibility of such tests vary and the public should first consult health care professionals for their assessment before undertaking any. But while the department’s Clinical Genetic Service serves patients affected by genetic disorders, it does not appear to offer genetic counselling service based on DTC test results. In 2017, the government set up the Steering Committee on Genomic Medicine to explore strategies for developing genomic medicine in Hong Kong. In its final report released in May, the committee proposed eight recommendations , including enhancing public engagement in genomic medicine and promoting the proper use of genetic tests. We hope the government will soon introduce concrete policy measures following these recommendations. Zheqi Yan and Mengyuan Li, Kowloon Tong