Genetic testing has had the air for a long time now. With the passage of time, it has gathered a lot of attention. It is a medical test that helps in identification of alterations in one’s genes that are inherited from their parents.
However, some mistakes in our genes or the genes of our parents, can result in various diseases and DNA genetic testing can help in an accurate diagnosis. It further helps in clarifying whether you are at risk of a certain disease that one of your parents have experienced in the past or not.
What is a Genetic Test?
As mentioned above, it is a medical test. It is also stated as an analysis of our DNA. Our DNA is responsible for the features and other abilities that the human body consists of. Several DNA genetic testing methods have been innovated over time. From home testing kits to lab tests; you can choose any that you find feasible.
Benefits of DNA Genetic Testing
How can genetic testing be helpful for you? It can be beneficial for an individual, in several ways. And we have listed some of them here for you.
Precise Diagnosis
In several disorders or diseases, DNA genetic testing is the only way to attain a precise diagnosis. It eliminates the long procedures or endless lab tests and medical investigations.
Furthermore, this test helps in evaluating the risk of developing a certain disease too. For example, if your mother had cancer, you can have several doubts about you developing it in the future too. Thus, with the help of genetic testing, you can have an insight to it as well. It showcases whether you are at risk of the illness in the future or not. If you do, doctors can help you take measures to prevent it.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Genetic testing is extremely helpful for medical professionals, in choosing the right treatment for an individual. Many times, a specific treatment or therapy doesn’t have an effective outcome on certain patients. With genetic tests, doctors pick out the perfect therapy and treatment plan, according to the genetic pattern.
Learn about your History
If you are curious about your ancestors, or you haven’t met your real family; genetic testing might help you in doing so. Children who have grown up in foster homes, find this test quite useful. It helps them discover their family and birth roots. It brings you a detailed report about your history and where you belong.
Types of Genetic Testing
There are 4 types of genetic tests available in the medical world. You can choose one, depending on what you are looking for.
Carrier testing
If you carry a mutation that might not affect you but you are concerned about your kids, then this test will be helpful for you.
Predictive testing
If you are showing no symptoms of an illness but you have chances of carrying it, you can get an answer to your uncertainty, with predictive genetic testing.
Diagnostic testing
It is helpful for diagnosing a disease accurately.
Prenatal testing
It is important for families who have had an illness running for generations. It can help couples for birth planning and much more.
CONCLUSION
Is genetic testing beneficial? Yes. It is an amazing innovation that has shaped the medical world effectively. It brings accuracy in diagnosis and helps in future planning and learning about your family’s history.
