Saturday, November 25, 2017

A Woman's DNA Saved Her Life

 



A Pennsylvania woman, Barbara Barnes, was one of over 150,000 people that donated their genetic information to a biobank called MyCode Community Health Initiative. This biobank uses genetic information to determine if the person is likely to develop certain conditions and allows them to see their treatment and prevention options. By using the persons DNA the person's doctor could use their specific information to pinpoint exactly what treatment plan to use. In Barnes's case, after her DNA was assessed, it was discovered that she carried a gene that could increase her chances of ovarian and breast cancer. Barnes and her doctor decided it would be a good idea to remove her ovaries to be on the safe side. When her ovaries were removed it was discovered that she had a malignant tumor the size of a golf ball. Had Barnes not decided to take precautions, this tumor that wasn't giving her any symptoms, could've taken her life. 

This way of treating patients could really change the health field. I would like to see DNA analysis incorporated more especially after seeing how much it benefitted the woman in the article. After reading this article, I would definitely want to participate in something like this to see if there are any diseases or conditions that I'm genetically more likely to develop. I think it's amazing how much we are progressing with technology and all these new genetic discoveries and am looking forward to seeing what the future has in store. 


https://www.usnews.com/news/healthcare-of-tomorrow/articles/2017-11-08/dna-will-point-the-way-to-healthier-patients

1 comment:

  1. I am speechless! This study definitely shows how our health field and technology have been immensely evolving. I, too, would want to participate in a DNA analysis like this because for all I know, I might be suffering from a disease or condition I don't know about yet. Many diseases and conditions are sneaky and symptoms are not presented. I fear that right at this moment or any time in my future, I will be dying inside without knowing it and before I can get treatment, it would be too late. Studies like this can really save lives but at a cost ofcourse. I hope to read future studies on this and what can be done to further improve. Great post!

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