Why You Should Get Your DNA Tested

March 20, 2023

Genetic, or DNA, testing appears to be all the rage these days, with numerous websites advertising for individuals to ‘discover their roots today,’ and to learn more about their ancestry and health. With so many affordable, at-home kits available on the market today is getting your DNA tested truly worth it? Get ready to dig deep into your roots and discover the benefits and limitations of DNA testing and if it is the right choice for you.

What Is DNA Testing?

DNA testing is a type of medical test that identifies and characterizes changes in genes, chromosomes, or proteins within a human being. Specifically, it analyzes the genetic code carried in every person’s DNA and can be found in the cells of any human material, from a smear of blood to a strand of hair, or a drop of saliva. Simply put, DNA testing works by taking a sample of cells from an individual, and scientists isolate the DNA code at the core of every single cell carrying the information that determines your physical characteristics and the possibility of developing certain conditions. The results of a DNA test can confirm or rule out a suspected genetic condition and help an individual determine if they have a chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder to their offspring.

Types Of Genetic Testing

With more than one thousand genetic tests available and currently in use, and with many more currently in development, there are a few common types individuals may have performed in their lifetime. Examples of genetic tests include molecular genetic tests, chromosomal genetic tests, and biochemical genetic tests. Molecular genetic tests, or gene tests, examine single genes or short lengths of DNA to identify variations or mutations within the genes. Chromosomal genetic tests study whole chromosomes or long lengths of DNA to analyze if there are large genetic changes, such as an extra copy of a chromosome, which can lead to certain genetic conditions. Biochemical genetic tests examine the amount or activity level of proteins within the DNA and look for abnormalities that can indicate changes to the DNA, which can lead to disorders.

Direct-To-Consumer DNA Testing

Traditionally, genetic testing has only been available through medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and genetic counselors. However, many corporations have been able to harness the power of DNA and have it tested in a simplified way, that makes it affordable and convenient for many individuals who want to learn more about their ancestors and genetic history. Direct-to-consumer DNA testing refers to genetic tests marketed directly to consumers via the Internet, advertising, and television. If an individual decides to purchase a genetic test, the kit is mailed directly to the person instead of through a doctor’s office, and usually involves collecting a DNA sample at home, typically by collecting saliva or swabbing the inside of the cheek, and sending it back to the laboratory.

Individuals who participate are notified of their results by mail or online and can expect to get their results in approximately four to eight weeks, depending on the kit they choose. Pricing for at-home genetic kits vary, but the affordable kits generally range from $90 to over $250, and professional or higher-end ones can cost more than $1000. DNA testing only reveals a piece of the puzzle about an individual’s health and ancestors, as other environmental and genetic factors play a significant role in a person’s overall story of who they are.

The Benefits Of Genetic Testing

With the growing market for direct-to-consumer DNA testing, these kits can promote awareness of genetic diseases, permit individuals to take a more proactive role in their health care, and allow them to learn more about their ancestral roots. Genetic testing has numerous potential benefits, as the test results can provide a sense of relief from uncertainty and help individuals make more informed choices when it comes to managing their health care. For instance, a negative result can eliminate the need for unnecessary checkups and screening tests, and a positive result can give an individual the right information to prevent, monitor, and treat the conditions that might be prevalent. In some cases, test results can also help individuals make choices when it comes to having children.

If an individual chooses to have their DNA tested, by testing for common genetic variations or changes in their DNA, commonly known as single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs, a person will be able to understand their biology better. By doing so, they can learn about their tolerance to certain medications, their carrier status when it comes to passing along certain traits and conditions to future generations, and their predisposition for developing specific conditions such as allergies and asthma to diabetes and cancer.

Risks Associated With DNA Testing

Although testing your DNA is relatively harmless, some consequences can happen after a person finds out their results. For instance, many individuals are vulnerable to being misled by the results of unproven or invalid tests, and without professional guidance from a genetic counselor or healthcare provider, they make significant decisions regarding their health based on inaccurate, incomplete, or simply misunderstood information DNA tests can provide. Some individuals may also experience an invasion of privacy when it comes to their genetics, as some testing companies may use their genetic information in an unauthorized manner. The physical risks associated with DNA testing is quite small, especially for tests requiring a blood sample or cheek swab. However, genetic testing used for prenatal testing carries a minimal risk of a woman suffering a miscarriage as the test requires a sample of the amniotic fluid or tissue surrounding the fetus.

Many of the risks associated with genetic testing are the emotional, social, and financial consequences of the test results, as some individuals may experience anger, depression, anxiety, or guilt because of their results. Additionally, genetic testing can create tension amongst family members as it can reveal information about a family as well. Genetic discrimination regarding employment or insurance can also be a concern for some individuals. It should be noted genetic testing only provides limited information about an inherited condition, and an individual should consult with a medical professional for more information that can greatly help them deal with their results.

Who Needs DNA Testing?

Technically, anyone can have their DNA tested for a variety of reasons, and most should have their DNA tested at some point in their life. As previously mentioned, DNA testing can be used to check for genetic disorders, inherited health conditions, paternity testing, and ancestry testing to discover their origins and to search for distant relatives. Historians and archaeologists have also used genetic testing to study unearthed skeletons found at historic sites, and by forensic scientists have used it at crime scenes. What are the different forms of genetic testing? Besides the three genetic tests that can be done specifically on the cells, there are four common types of tests including paternity tests, genealogy or ancestry tests, gene therapy DNA testing, and forensic DNA tests.

DNA testing is a fantastic thing that can offer you many answers about your family and personal history. Just remember to use common sense when getting these tests done and realize there is more to it than just a test, but rather it is just another piece of the puzzle of what makes you, you.

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