Common genetic questions

### Health insurance is not affected by genetic test results

Health insurance in Australia is community rated, meaning the cost is not based on an assessment of individual health or risk (everyone pays the same premium). Genetic test results do not need to be disclosed.

### Life insurance may be affected by genetic test results

In contrast, life insurance requires an assessment of individual risk. There is currently a moratorium (a freeze) in place (until 30th June 2024) that limits the use of genetic test results for new life insurance policies worth up to $500,000.

**Update – October 2024**  
The federal government has agreed to ban the use of genetic test results in insurance. Companies offering life or disability insurance will be unable to refuse coverage or increase premiums based on genetic information.


**Further reading**  
ABC - [Life insurers banned from using genetic tests](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-10/life-insurers-banned-from-using-genetic-tests-to-deny-cover/104333828)


Online DNA tests (or personal genomic tests) are widely available. It’s important to consider the accuracy of these tests, what sort of information you might find out, and what happens to your personal information after testing.

Murdoch Children’s Research Institute was recently part of a study that looked at Australian’s thoughts and experiences with personal genomic testing – the Genioz study. They used their findings to develop some great [community resources](https://media.prod.vcgs.ninja/Genioz_Resources_7b8c1c6626.pdf?updated_at=2023-02-23T02:45:46.704Z). This example talks through some of the things you should consider before having a personal genomic test.

In addition, [Choice Australia](https://www.choice.com.au/health-and-body/health-practitioners/prevention/articles/dna-tests) and the [University of Melbourne](https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/what-do-we-need-to-know-about-online-genetic-testing) have written some good information about direct-to-consumer tests.

_MTHFR_ stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. This gene produces an enzyme that is involved in metabolism of folate (a B vitamin) in the body. _MTHFR_ gene testing is promoted by some complementary health practitioners when investigating certain conditions (e.g. infertility).

However, there is no evidence that links the _MTHFR_ gene with any disease or condition. Therefore, the information you gain from testing is unlikely to improve your health or management of any conditions. Our [fact sheet](https://media.prod.vcgs.ninja/CSF_014_MTHFR_fact_sheet_b04c3817b8.pdf) contains more detail.

Genetic testing can provide important information about your health. It can diagnose genetic conditions and may predict future health problems.

Given that genetic testing can provide such important information about you and your family members (remember, you share your DNA with your relatives), it’s important to arrange testing through your doctor or a genetic counsellor.

They can ensure that:
* You receive enough information to understand testing and the results
* You understand the risks and benefits of testing (e.g. will testing affect my life insurance; how will my results affect my family members)
* Your test is performed by an accredited pathology laboratory and will give accurate results (i.e. some overseas laboratories don’t have the same standards as we do in Australia)
* Testing is appropriate for your situation
* You are aware of what testing may/or may not show about your health
* You have access to genetic counselling support if required

Please be aware that _‘direct to consumer’_ genetic testing (usually arranged online without the support of a doctor) is not recommended. The Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) [has provided a useful summary](https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/about-us/publications/understanding-direct-consumer-genetic-dna-testing).

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