WHEN the group chat was abuzz discussing mandatory paternity testing at birth in Jamaica, Terron Dewar participated, not knowing that his opinion would lead to the launch of a business. Today, the policy analyst and entrepreneur has started 876 DNA Test — a genetics testing company offering an at-home DNA testing experience for Jamaicans.

Dewar expressed his belief that mandating DNA paternity testing at birth is not an appropriate policy for Jamaica at this time. Instead, he advocates for the widespread availability and affordability of DNA testing for those seeking the service. Highlighting concerns about paternity fraud potentially leading to domestic violence, the trained mediator warned that mandatory paternity screening could result in State-sponsored, gender-based violence if unexpected results occur.

He emphasised that implementing a mandatory DNA testing policy at the State level, without the accompanying mediation and counselling support, could exacerbate gender-based violence, as societal tendencies toward violence, particularly directed at women in cases of disputed paternity, may lead to men expressing their frustrations through harmful actions.

With this belief, he has been on a quest to increase the accessibility of DNA screening across the island, eliminating the need for people to travel to the lab for screening. He said his company is on a mission to empower individuals to uncover the truth about their family lineage through a convenient, accurate and reliable DNA testing process.

“We are dedicated to providing comprehensive and accessible genetic testing services that enable people to establish their authentic biological connections that foster a greater sense of identity and belonging,” Dewar said.

The digital approach

The company offers a suite of services including paternity/maternity tests, aunt/uncle tests, sibling tests, pets and vets DNA tests, grandparents, and ancestry tests, all accessible through its digital touchpoints.

Dewar shared that while the company establishes relationship and paternity, it also provides molecular diagnostics to help determine individuals have a fulsome understanding of their health and wellness and their predisposition to diseases based on genetics. HIV, COVID-19, STDs and food sensitivity screenings are also provided.

“In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a notable surge in the demand for e-health services in Jamaica, offering enhanced convenience and expanded access for many. Leveraging this trend, we are extending the same level of convenience to the realm of DNA testing, providing our clients with the clarity and peace of mind they seek when delving into their ancestry,” he noted.

With 876 DNA Test, people may order test kits via the company’s website, on social media, and also via WhatsApp. The kits are delivered via local courier services to the clients, who then follow a step-by-step process to adequately collect their samples and return it to the lab. A lab certified result is then shared with the client within four business days after the lab receives the sample.

He explained that for testing through the court system, like filing for inheritance, 876 DNA Test has partnered with medical doctors islandwide to collect samples and to ensure legal requirements are upheld.

“In such cases, the test sample cannot be in the custody of the persons tested, so what we have done is partnered with the medical professional to ensure we maintain the correct chain of command,” he said, reiterating that his team is dedicated to providing a seamless and stress-free testing experience.

“Our team of experts ensure that each test is conducted with the utmost precision and care.”

Emotional support with testing

He highlighted that in addition to the slew of test services, the company also provides an optional counselling and mediation service to help clients process adverse results. This, he reasoned, is a means of support for clients during potentially challenging moments.

“Learning about one’s genealogy can be an emotionally charged experience and we understand that individuals may experience a spectrum of emotions after receiving their results that is difficult to process. We’ve integrated this service with our testing offerings in hopes of helping our clients adequately process these emotions and determine their next steps.”

Dewar outlined that a team of legal, counselling and mediation, marketing, lab technicians and logistics professionals supports the company. The company also has established contracts and partnerships with internationally accredited laboratories that generate PhD reviewed results for all its DNA tests.

“Our system is convenient, comprehensive, and it works. We are here to empower individuals seeking the truth about their lineage to do so through accurate DNA testing. We are here to enable people to establish their authentic biological connections and find closure, fostering a greater sense of identity and belonging,” he said.

His vision for 876 DNA Test is to be the leading provider of DNA testing solutions in Jamaica and the Caribbean, cultivating a society where individuals can navigate their familial relationships, resulting in stronger family bonds, improved well-being, and a deeper understanding of personal heritage.

Get tested with 876 DNA Test

Dewar noted that through the company’s innovative approach, he intends to contribute to a more connected and harmonious community where the truth about family lineage is readily accessible and embraced.

He invited individuals to test their lineage with 876 DNA Test and experience the convenience of clarity with peace of mind.