Several companies are now offering to conduct DNA tests and predict the risks you may have form certain diseases, but do they really work?

Scientists have been working in this direction to find out how do genes effect certain diseases and companies like 23andMe and Navigenics offer the chance to people to have their own genes examined for any risk factors.

It’s as simple as ordering a test online and following it by sending a sample of saliva or a cheek swab, and within just a few weeks a report is sent which assesses predictable risks to certain genetic diseases.

Researchers wanted to investigate the accuracy of these direct-to-consumer DNA profiles and they compared the results provided from both the companies for five subjects.

They found that although the DNA tests were accurate but the methodology followed by both the companies was completely different.

The two reports showed major differences with only 50 percent of the disease predictions matching each other.

Researchers suggested that the companies need to improvise to indicate to consumers how much is still unknown when it comes to genetic predictions and warned consumers to take their personal risk, as per the reports, with a grain of salt.

These DNA tests are not reasonably priced and can cost as much as $300 to more than $1,000.