The Value in Genetic Testing

Genetic testing has revolutionized healthcare because it allows individuals to understand their predispositions to many conditions. Some examples are heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. These tests can be life-changing since they offer valuable insights that empower people to make informed decisions about their health.

There are many types of genetic testing. Single gene testing looks for genetic changes in a singular gene. This kind of testing might be recommended if a person has symptoms of a specific condition or symptom that is primarily caused by changes in the same gene. This may also be recommended if there is a known genetic mutation in your family. Examples of these illness include Duchenne muscular dystrophy and sickle cell disease.

Genetic testing panels look for genetic changes in many genes during the same test. Examples of these illnesses include primary immunodeficiency, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. This kind of testing might also be recommended when a person is more likely to develop a disease like breast cancer or colon cancer.

There are two different types of large-scale genomic testing. Exome sequencing looks at all the genes in DNA or just the genes that are related to medical conditions. There is also whole genome sequencing which looks at all of a person’s DNA, not just the genes. Exome genome sequencing is used if someone has a complex medical condition. Whole genome sequencing is used when there is a rare disorder that might have a genetic cause.

My Opionions:

Genetic testing tailors healthcare to the individual. This can make treatments more effective since genetic insights help predict how a person might respond to certain medication.

Genetic testing also enables early detection of disease risks. This allows for proactive healthcare decisions. Knowing the genetic risks one may have for conditions like cancer or cardiovascular disease, can lead to lifestyle changes or preventative treatments

https://www.cdc.gov/genomics-and-health/about/genetic-testing.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/gtesting/genetic_testing.htm

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/genetic-testing/about/pac-20384827