How DNA Testing Helps In The Fight Against Disease
Genetics play a large part in what traits you receive from your parents. It also determines what potentially defective genes you may receive that can lead to problems later on. DNA testing helps us to identify genes responsible for particular conditions; it may even lead to developing treatments and cures for genetic ailments.
Much of the DNA testing that is performed today is done pre-natal, or before birth. Collecting samples of a fetuses DNA can help to determine their likelihood of developing particular genetic conditions such as Down’s syndrome. Newborns are also screened for a plethora of diseases and future ailments. This testing allows parents to prepare themselves for any special needs the child may have after they are born.
Another type of genetic test performed is a carrier test. This is performed on a couple prior to procreation. Samples of each partners DNA is analyzed to determine if they are a carrier for any genetic disorders. This testing can predict the chance of their children inheriting a carried genetic condition. This can help many potential parents understand the risk that may be involved for their potential offspring of developing a genetic and possibly life-altering disease.
Diagnostic testing is another type of DNA test; it helps to determine if a person has a genetically-related condition or disease. This can be very frightening to some people and to other’s it may come as a relief. However, many people who test positive for a genetic condition are traumatized and can cause feelings of guilt among family members who may have tested negative. For this reason, counseling is often suggested as part of this testing process.
Predictive DNA tests are a type of analysis that is performed to search for genetic conditions that occur after the time of birth. This type of test is often done to test for certain types of cancer. Mutations in the genetic code can point to illnesses that may develop later on in life. Currently this test is limited to what can be tested for and it is not 100% accurate. However, in the future scientists may be able to search for a plethora of illnesses with a better accuracy rate.
There can be many pros and cons to genetic testing. However, often the pros outweigh the cons. Millions of people benefit everyday from some sort of genetic testing. As people begin taking advantage of these types of test, advances can be made DNA testing and research.
There can be many benefits of DNA testing. These tests can help determine things such as: if you have a genetic disorder, your chance of developing a genetic disorder, your chance of passing a genetic disorder to your offspring, if your unborn fetus has a genetic condition, and if your offspring has a genetic disorder after they are born.
