2023/9004/N
EC/EFTA
NO Norvège
  • S00S - SANTE, EQUIPEMENT MEDICAL
2023-07-12
2023-04-11

Genetic tests to consumers in Norway. The prohibition shall apply to taking a biological sample of a person under the established age limit, ordering and carrying out DNA analysis of the sample. In addition, the Ministry proposes that the prohibition shall include the sale of genetic tests to children. The Ministry also proposes a prohibition against the use of genetic information derived from tests carried out contrary to the proposed prohibition against testing of children outside the health service.

Amendments to the Biotechnology Act. Prohibition against genetic testing of children outside the health service.

The Ministry of Health and Care Services proposes amendments to the Biotechnology Act entailing the introduction of a prohibition against genetic testing of children outside the health service. The proposed prohibition is based on the principle that predictive genetic testing of children is prohibited, but with the

continuation of the current exemption if the testing can detect conditions that, through treatment, can prevent or reduce harm to the health of the child. Diagnostic testing of children under 16 years of age should only be permitted if it is requested by health personnel. In addition, the Ministry proposes to expand the definition of genetic testing under the Biotechnology Act, so that tests that are close to medical tests are also covered by the Act and the prohibition against testing of children. This applies to tests that are intended to provide information about a person's physical or mental characteristics or aptitude, personality traits, etc. The Ministry does not propose expanding the scope of the Biotechnology Act to also regulate paternity tests and other genealogy tests. The prohibition shall apply to taking a biological sample of a person under the established age limit, ordering and carrying out DNA analysis of the sample. In addition, the Ministry proposes that the prohibition shall include the sale of genetic tests to children. For further information please see the attached amendments.