Gene testing may be NHS cash drain

The cost of screening for genetic disorders will be considerable and may not be the best use of NHS resources, researchers said today.

The study, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, said people given genetic screening must be properly monitored to avoid stress and anxiety

after they are informed of the potential risks they face.

"Population screening can create a considerable burden of counselling and follow-up for primary and secondary

healthcare services," said Professor Paul Atkinson, who led the study.

He said the money "may be better directed to good diagnosis of the clinical condition".