Concerned you may be predisposed to a certain health
condition? Trying to determine a child’s biological parents? Whatever your
reason is, genetic testing can provide you a solution. There are a wide variety
of tests available, though many people do not fully understand what they are or
how they work. More importantly, some people do not realize how powerful these
tests can be in making life-changing decisions. Before submitting to a test, an
individual may want to do a little research. From talking to your doctor to surfing
the web, there are many resources available.
Reasons People Get
Tested
To get a better grasp on genetic testing as a whole, it is
important to understand why genetic testing occurs. There are many reasons
someone may want their DNA to be studied, including – source: http://www.gtldna.com/
·
Paternity testing
·
Searching for a predisposition to a certain
illness
·
Determining if you are a carrier of a genetic
disease
·
Testing to help figure out what kinds of
medications will best treat a genetic disease
Tests look for variations in your genes that can indicate an
illness or determine if you are the parent of a child. The results of these
tests can be extremely important. Someone who discovers they are at risk of
developing an illness may consider preventative treatment. Others who determine
they carry a certain genetic disease may change their minds regarding family
planning. Once you have figured out why you want to be tested, it is important
to do your homework, relying on the following resources for help.
1. Genetic Testing Registry
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) developed the Genetic Testing Registry (GTR) in
order to help health care providers, researchers and the everyday consumer have
access to information regarding testing. The registry:
·
Can help you find a local genetic testing
company
·
Shares data regarding scientific data
surrounding the tests
·
Helps to hold providers accountable through making
certain scientific information available
In general, the GTR largely caters to health care providers,
and it can help your doctor get the information he or she needs to help
recommend a certain test to you as well as interpret the results.
2. Your Family’s Medical History
If you are considering genetic testing because of a health
issue, your family’s medical history will be one of your biggest assets. This
can help you determine which diseases you may be predisposed to. To collect
information, talk to your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles about any
genetic diseases that might run in your family. These would include immune
issues like Lupus or Celiac disease; cardiovascular issues such as heart
disease; issues associated with aging like Alzheimer’s; or other health issues
like diabetes.
3. Your Physician
Once you think you may want to go ahead with genetic
testing, it is important to discuss your options with your doctor. He or she
can let you know which tests will be most useful to you. Perhaps more
importantly, your doctor can help prepare you for what the results may be and
what you will do once you get them.
Keep in mind that while genetic testing is a great
indicator, in some cases it is not an absolute. In other words, if a test comes
back positive, it does not mean you will definitely develop a disease. A
positive test does, however, give you options, which is why it is imperative to
keep your doctor in the loop. He or she may be able to suggest certain
preventative measures you can take.
4. Your Attorney
Many people choose to do genetic testing to resolve
paternity issues. If that is the case, your attorney will be a valuable
resource. If you purchase a legally binding test, you can actually use the
results in court. This can be extremely helpful if you are disputing things
such as custody or child support.
5. Books
Lastly, there are a number of books that have been published
on the topic of genetic testing. You might find it helpful to read books about
how to interpret your results or about how personalized medicine has boomed
since the advent of genetic testing.
As with any medical procedure, it is important that you do
your research so you are fully prepared for your genetic test. Consider all of
the resources you have available to help you collect information. If you are
getting tested for health reasons, be sure to consult with your physician and put
together a comprehensive history of illness in your family. If you are
determining paternity, make sure you consult with your attorney so the test may
be used in court. So long as you are prepared, you will be able to adequately
deal with the outcome of your test.
