Personal genomics in Greece: an overview of available direct-to-consumer genomic services and the relevant legal framework

Background: This article provides an overview of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genomic services that are currently available in Greece and the legal framework within which they operate.

Methods: Here, we describe the landscape of the DTC genomic testing companies and laboratories by conducting a systematic Ιnternet search for relevant websites. We examine the existing legal framework regarding genetic testing in Greece by a review of present regulation. Although Greece does not have explicit legal provisions for DTC genomics, several other laws, including soft law mechanisms, create the broader legal framework within which DTC genomic services may exist.

Results/conclusions: While the current legal framework creates a flexible environment that is conducive to DTC genomic operations, it is also ambiguous about the legality of some specific services. Given the growing DTC activity in Greece, we argue that it is important to both enforce compliance with existing law and clarify legal ambiguities that may risk limiting the power of legal protections that ought to be afforded to consumers.