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DNA Direct First to Market With Genetic Testing for Infertility Via the Internet

Posted on: Tuesday, 24 January 2006, 12:00 CST

DNA Direct, the ground-breaking direct-to-consumer genetic testing company, today announced that it is offering testing to determine underlying genetic causes of infertility and recurrent miscarriages for the first time via the internet.

Genetics is thought to be a contributing factor in five to ten percent of couples that experience infertility, according to recent data published by the Centers for Disease Control. Genetic testing can determine whether a person has known underlying genetic causes of infertility that are often missed by a physical exam and standard laboratory tests. Because genetic testing is a relatively new field, and interpreting results requires special training, these tests may not be available at physician's offices and fertility clinics.

Now couples who are experiencing infertility and pregnancy loss can order a test online and receive the results privately through the DNA Direct website (www.dnadirect.com). DNA Direct offers phone support by board-certified genetic experts and presents an individual's lab result with a comprehensive, personalized report featuring information, illustrations, and resources that can be shared with the patient's physician. For many infertile couples, maintaining privacy is key and DNA Direct offers complete confidentiality and anonymity with all testing.

"DNA Direct's genetic services can enhance doctor-patient relationships," said Dr. Allan T. Bombard, Chief Medical Officer at Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women. "Physicians save time and can get access to information they may not have in their community while patients can take a more active role in their treatment and remain under a physician's care. It's great teamwork."

Online Convenience: How It Works

To get started, consumers log on to www.dnadirect.com to learn about genetics and the potential impact on infertility. They take an interactive questionnaire to identify which tests are appropriate. Throughout the process, genetic counselors are available by phone to answer questions and discuss any issues.

Once selected, the testing kit is mailed with clear instructions on obtaining DNA samples. After returning the test sample, the consumer will receive lab results within three to four weeks, depending on the test. In addition, the consumer will have access to a secure online "Personalized Report" that explains the results within the context of an individual's age, health and lifestyle. The report also outlines potential next steps ranging from identifying which medical professionals are appropriate to which reproductive treatments may bring success to considering alternative options such as egg or sperm donation, surrogacy or adoption.

Which tests are appropriate for a person depends on personal and family history, and what a person knows about his or her fertility. The tests offered look for:

-- Changes in chromosome structure or number

-- Changes in the Fragile X region of the X chromosome

-- Missing regions on the Y chromosome (also called Y deletion)

-- Changes in the cystic fibrosis gene

-- Changes in two genes that cause blood clotting problems (factor V Leiden and prothrombin)

Depending on what tests are performed, the price for the confidential testing, a comprehensive Personalized Report and phone access to genetic counselor ranges from $500 to $1,300.

"There's only a limited number of genetic counselors and geneticists available and yet there are more than 9 million women currently using infertility services that could benefit from genetic testing," said CEO and DNA Direct founder Ryan Phelan. "By offering online access to infertility tests, personalized reports and genetic counselors, more people can benefit from the knowledge about the role their genes may play in their quest to conceive or sustain a pregnancy."

"Realizing there is an underlying genetic cause for my infertility gives me tremendous peace of mind," said an undisclosed DNA Direct customer. "It not only lends insight into the future, it explains the past."

DNA Direct's infertility tests are the latest in the company's array of scientifically proven genetic tests -- including tests for cancer, blood clots, cystic fibrosis, chronic lung disease and chronic liver disease. For more information, visit www.dnadirect.com.

About DNA Direct

DNA Direct is a San Francisco-based company offering personalized, confidential genetic testing and interpretation services. DNA Direct's mission is to provide consumers access to genetic testing and the information necessary to understand test results in the context of their overall health, family history, and lifestyle. Please visit us at www.dnadirect.com.

Source: Business Wire

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