Genetic Testing for Disease
Genetic Testing for Disease
Thirty million people suffer from rare diseases in the United States. 83% of doctors recommend genetic testing for diseases to find a diagnosis. Genetic tests can help healthcare professionals identify a diagnosis factor because they help:
- Confirm a disease
- Explain the cause of the symptoms
- Find effective treatments for the disease
DNA and Genetic Diseases
Each chromosome has genes that can lead to a genetic condition. For instance, Chromosome 6 has genes that could lead to Diabetes, Spinocerebellar Ataxia, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, and Epilepsy. Chromosome 7 can have genes that could lead people to suffer from Pendred Syndrome, Obesity, Cystic Fibrosis, or Williams Syndrome.
DNA testing looks at each of the chromosomes and the genes included in them. For those that have gene mutations or abnormalities in the areas of specific diseases like heart disease, the results will show a genetic risk for it.
What Diseases Can Be Detected Through Genetic Testing
Whole genome sequencing is the best DNA test for detecting diseases through genetic testing. Sequencing the full human genome ensures all genes are analysed, so even rare diseases are included in the results.
At one time, clinical-grade whole genome sequencing was only available through geneticists and genetic counsellors in a clinical setting in the United States. However, with advancements in technology, this type of DNA test is available online and no longer needs a blood test. People can submit their DNA samples easily by mail and receive reports that are easy to read. People who are concerned can follow up with healthcare professionals.
Genetic Tests for At-Risk Family Members
Genetic tests are not a guarantee. In other words, if the results of a genetic test identify BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, the person has an elevated risk of breast cancer. Genetic testing is not predictive, though.
The results simply mean the person has a higher cancer risk than someone who does not have those abnormalities. Even though it’s not a definite prognosis, those who receive a positive test result for breast cancer risk should follow up by seeking genetic counselling to discuss preventive measures.
Prenatal Testing
Family history of diseases is one of the most common reasons people choose genetic testing for diseases. Genetic tests, such as carrier screening and prenatal genetic screening, can identify at-risk family members. Those who receive positive test results for certain diseases can begin preventive medicine to lower their risk.
Genetic testing during pregnancy is common as it can signal a problem that can be resolved early in an infant’s life if needed.
Many parents decide to seek genetic testing when expecting to identify any genetic risks for their children. While the genetic test results may be frightening to look at, it’s for the best.
Knowing the risks that a child may be facing can be set the stage for preventive care that could lead to a life free from genetic health conditions. Not only that, but future generations will also benefit from knowing what genes could have been passed down.
Health Insurance Implications with Genetic Tests for Diseases
Health insurance companies are more likely to pay for genetic testing when a healthcare provider shows medical history the person has a higher risk of suffering from a health condition that can be inherited. Even if the person is presymptomatic, the insurance company may approve simply to help prevent the onset of the disease with preventive medical care.
What Most People Don’t Know About the Cost of Genetic Testing for Diseases
The information DNA holds in saving people’s lives from life-threatening diseases is too valuable to allow health insurance coverage to stand in the way. SuperDNA’s mission is to help people gain knowledge about their health to seek preventive medical care.
How Healthcare Providers Use Genetic Testing for Diseases
What the FDA Believes About Genomics
In 2017, the FDA approved 23andMe’s genetic tests for some diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and celiac diseases. The company was previously scolded by the organisation for advertising genetic testing kits without consent, so 23andMe started working with the FDA to ensure their tests and how they market them fall in line with their beliefs.
Due to the partnership between 23andMe, the FDA approved the company’s genetic tests for 10 diseases and conditions:
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Late-onset Alzheimer’s Disease
- Celiac Disease
- Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
- Early-Onset Primary Dystonia
- Factor XI Deficiency
- Gaucher Disease Type 1
- G6PD
- Hereditary Hemochromatosis
- Hereditary Thrombophilia
The FDA continues to approve the use of genetic testing for rare diseases. Those who have not had their DNA tested yet can take advantage of the more comprehensive DNA tests SuperDNA offers. With a simple collection of saliva, SuperDNA customers can send in their DNA samples to the lab to extract genetic information. The file is then automatically uploaded to the secured site and available to be read by the customer.
