Genetic testing finds out the changes in the genes that may cause certain variations, conditions, illnesses, or diseases. This testing examines your DNA, the chemical database that carries instructions for the body’s functions. A sample of blood, hair, skin, amniotic fluid, or other tissue can be collected for genetic testing. 

Diagnostic testing: It reveals the suspected disorder that may be caused by changes in the gene. Genetic testing may be used to confirm a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis or Huntington's disease. 

Carrier testing: If you are part of an ethnic group or have a family history of certain conditions, which have a heritability factor, carrier testing may be a smart choice. In such cases, it is recommended to do genetic testing before having children. Genetic carrier testing can help to determine genes associated with genetic diseases like sickle cell anemia or cystic fibrosis and can identify if you and your partner are carriers for the same disease. 

Predictive testing: Genetic testing can be used to determine the risk or predisposition of developing certain conditions. You can predict your risk of developing the disease before the symptoms develop with the help of genetic testing. For example, genetic testing can be used to identify the risk of developing a risk for diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, depression, Alzheimer’s, autism. Predictive genetic testing can also be used to a predisposition to lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, acne, etc. 

Sometimes, genetic testing can also reveal some traits which can influence your hair and eye color and predict how genetics determine few behavioral characteristics such as the tendency to overeat, emotional eating, etc. 

Pharmacogenetics: Genetic testing may help determine the metabolic efficiency of the medication and what dosage will be beneficial for you. 

Benefits of Genetic Testing

The biggest benefit of genetic testing is that it can provide a sense of direction whether the results are positive or negative. The results can help people make informed decisions about healthcare decisions in the future.