A fact that many people ignore is that genetic testing may prevent several fatal medical conditions by detecting their early symptoms.
Are you hearing about it for the first time? Well, this is the modern diagnostic method, which means taking a quick at-home test to determine the ancestral origins through your DNA.
According to a report by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the number of new genetic tests increased from 607 tests in 2012 to 51,803 tests in 2022.
With advanced tech innovations in the health sector, more companies are investing in research about cell mutations to help patients.
In this article, we will brief you about the most reliable testing method and the different types of DNA tests available.
The Importance of Genetic Testing
Genetic testing means the timeline of your cells to know how and what impacted your ancestors, how they survived, and the habits they formed.
All these reflect the personality you have inherited over the years through cell mutations or changes in the cell formations.
Genetic testing can be done in a health lab or with an at-home kit by spitting a saliva sample, containing cheek and immune system cells.
This convenient method is used because every cell in your body has your DNA, with a unique genetic code.
And with that knowledge of your ancestral origin, you can take the necessary preventive measures.
It is also relevant for patients and non-patients alike in the following manner:
- Genetic illnesses such as heart disease, asthma, diabetes, cancer, and single-gene disorders can be detected early to prevent any loss of life.
- Through diagnosis, many common diseases and lifestyle-related issues can also be interrupted before they become severe.
- Prescription therapy helps doctors to recommend safe and mild medicines to patients as per their genealogy.
- Complex medical issues with varying symptoms can be determined accurately with the information on genetic family history.
- Some clinical trials require DNA testing to ensure patients do not get negatively impacted by the side effects of medicines.
- Genetic testing is also important as several prenatal and post-natal risks can be avoided.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
The genetics testing results may vary from as quick as two weeks to as long as six weeks for most brands.
Different Types of Ancestry Tests
Now that you understand the significant role genetic testing plays in your life, let’s know about the different types of ancestry DNA testing methods.
- Mitochondrial (mtDNA tests) – It is a test that determines the impact of the DNA inherited from the biological mother. It can trace the maternal line over tens of thousands of years.
- Y-DNA tests – The Y chromosome, which comes from the paternal lineage cell, can be diagnosed with this test. It detects the genes of the biological father throughout the generation.
- Autosomal DNA testing – The best gene testing method is Autosomal DNA testing as it covers both sides of the family tree, providing complete information on gene mutation.
STATISTICS
The graph shows the growth and forecast of global direct-to-consumer genetic market share from 2022 to 2030.
How to Choose the Best Genetic Testing Kit?
With innovations in every field, the health sector has also progressed to find convenient ways to understand genetic mutations and their impact on people.
One such method is ordering a genetic testing kit from an online medical store. It may seem easy, however, people also doubt its accuracy and also have other privacy concerns.
Here’s how you can choose the best genetic testing kit for you and your family members:
A Reliable Home Testing Kit
In this modern era, you don’t have to make an appointment at a lab for DNA testing. Simply, order from a reliable online store by checking its reviews online.
Evidence-Based Results
Another factor to consider while purchasing a DNA test kit is that offers a detailed analysis report from the vendor. Understanding test results means it would be either positive, negative, or uncertain, depending on the type of test, personal history, and family history.
Database Size For Accuracy
A gene testing company’s database size determines the accuracy of the results. It is a reference for ethnicity, and a bigger dataset means covering more geographical regions.
Secure And Easy To Use
Your DNA sample contains your valuable information and therefore can be misused by hackers. To prevent data loss, check the privacy policies of a DNA testing company before sending your DNA samples.
Subscription And Discounts
The cost of a test may stop you from gene diagnosis, as most companies offer subscriptions to get a detailed report. Always, look for trusted brands that are within your budget and offer discounts to customers.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your ancestral origins opens doors to valuable information about your historical physiology.
It provides a timeline of the way your body functions by determining the genes responsible through inheritance from the family tree.
A detailed report can help prevent fatal diseases, especially those that can transfer from pregnant women to the child.
This medical innovation assists many patients undergoing treatment and their doctors by avoiding the side effects of certain medicines.
Thus, your DNA data is necessary for better health conditions for you and the future of your family tree.
