A law professor and forensic expert have advised caution in the use of DNA paternity testing, concerned about an increase in the use of testing to resolve suspected infidelity.

They argue that the tests can cause as much harm as good, and will not necessarily benefit families.

DNA testing has been a help to law enforcement, said Li Xuejun, associate law professor at the Renmin University of China in Beijing.

However, "paternity tests should be treated with care, because they may result in worse family conflict," Li said. "Children can become the victims."

Li is also concerned about the number of paternity testing companies that have been set up in the last two years.

"Paternity testing should not be regarded in purely commercial terms," Li said. "Certain restrictions and standards should be set for these companies as well."

The number of applications for paternity testing has increased significantly, Hu Lan, a doctor from the Ministry of Public Security, told China Central Television.

Hu said that most tests done at the Material Evidence And Appraisal Center are for judicial departments.

As for civil paternity tests, Hu said that in more than 90 percent of cases tested at her center parents proved to be wrongly suspected of infidelity.

Whilst good news, such results could still severely hurt the accused parent and the children involved, and deeply affect a family, said Hu.

(China Daily January 18, 2005)