From Sweaty Towels to Genetic Stats: Stalking Athletes for their Genetic Information

Sonia      M. Suter

doi:10.2174/187221512802717286

Abstract

With recent advances in genetics, sports fans may soon have access to a new category of statistics: genetic information. With patented correlations between genetics and athletics, and with the emergence of a growing and unregulated market in direct-to-consumer (“DTC”) genetic testing, fans may be able to obtain an athlete’s genetic information on their own, as long as they can access any item that may have some DNA on it. In some jurisdictions, they may even be able to do so legally, notwithstanding the potential harms to the athletes and their privacy.

Keywords: Genetics, Athlete, ACTN3, DTC Genetic Testing, Privacy, DNA, Athletic Statistics, GINA, Human Tissue Act of 2004, Human Genetic Examinations Act.