A little bit of information

A little bit of information

Toledo Blade: Kits that test for health risks from obesity to Alzheimer’s may soon be available on drugstore shelves, along with foot powder and denture adhesive. The company that makes the kits likely will profit. The benefit for customers is less clear.

Pathway Genomics of San Diego says its Insight test kit can identify as many as 72 genetic conditions.

Some experts are concerned about what people may do with the results. A low-risk result for prostate cancer might convince men that they don’t need to check for the disease. A higher-risk result for breast cancer could induce women to seek unneeded care.

Information is good. Knowing what to do with it is better.