Welcome to GeneWatch UK

GeneWatch UK is a not-for-profit group that monitors developments in genetic technologies from a public interest, environmental protection and animal welfare perspective. GeneWatch believes people should have a voice in whether or how these technologies are used and campaigns for safeguards for people, animals and the environment. We work on all aspects of genetic technologies - from GM crops and foods to genetic testing of humans.

Topics

  • Genes and Marketing

    Genetic testing companies can sell gene tests without any regulation of the claims they make. Scientists from the Netherlands and from the US National Office of Public Health Genomics have published an investigation of seven companies highlighted by GeneWatch as selling misleading gene tests. They concluded that "There is insufficient scientific evidence to conclude that genomic profiles are useful in measuring genetic risk for common diseases or in developing personalized diet and lifestyle recommendations for disease prevention". UK scientists and medics have also warned that "There is a growing business selling new genetic tests based on very preliminary research - the evidence is far too flimsy to be accepted by evidence-based medical practice".

  • The UK Police National DNA Database

    The Human Genetics Commission has announced a welcome 'Citizens' Inquiry' into the National DNA Database, which will report on 13th May 2008. The Nuffield Council on Bioethics held a consultation and published a report in September 2007, calling for innocent people to be removed from the Database.

  • Environmental Liability

    Who will pay if there is damage to the environment as a result of using GMOs? The Government has announced its 2nd consultation on implementaing the Environmental Liability Directive which includes environmental harm from GM organisms.

  • GM Contamination Register

    An on-line database of incidents of GM contamination, illegal releases and adverse agricultural side-effects run by GeneWatch UK and Greenpeace.

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