If you’re new to genetic testing, there are probably a few questions you are asking yourself. There is so much misinformation about health treatments and health products these days we wanted to set the record straight.
Since this is an FDA approved test, we’re going to answer a few basic questions you might have if you are considering this preventative care test for yourself or for a loved one.
So the first question you’re probably asking yourself is ‘Who should get tested?’
The answer to that is both very simple and also unique to each person. Everyone has a unique set of genes, made up of DNA.
With genetic testing you can find answers to questions regarding you and your family’s health history. If you weren’t able to ask your parents or grandparents directly, this could be the only way to find answers to these questions.
| With genetic testing you can find answers to questions regarding you and your family’s health history. If you weren’t able to ask your parents or grandparents directly, this could be the only way to find answers to these questions. Were you able to ask your parents or grandparents about hereditary diseases? If not this could literally prove to be life-saving information. |
So what is Genetic testing specifically done for and how does it affect medical treatment?
- The most common reason is directly related to the first question we asked above. This is used to confirm potentially hereditary diseases.
Predictive testing like the tests we provide will help you learn whether you have a genetic condition that runs in your family. Before you ever deal with a sign or symptom this can be valuable information for preventative medical treatments.
Even if the genetic condition never has a negative affect in your life, it can also help you pass valuable information onto your children and grandchildren.
- The second most common reason for genetic testing is to confirm a suspected disease or disorder based on existing symptoms and signs of a disease.
This is practical for anyone experiencing signs or symptoms related to a specific disease like cancer, heart disease or diabetes. - Another common reason for genetic testing is to help determine preventative treatment plans.
Especially in the instances where you take the test and it is positive for cancer, heart disease or diabetes these preventative treatment plans can prove to be life-saving.
Each treatment plan will specifically help with the genetically identified disease and significantly help lower the risk of that disease worsening. - One common reason affecting more than 90% of seniors is to help confirm or determine what medicines and dosages are right for each individual person.
This specific type of genetic test is referred to as pharmacogenetics. By using this genetic test to examine specific genetic sequences, a doctor can identify the individual dosages of delicate medications. This helps patients get effective treatment faster and safer.
So how does at-home genetic testing work?
If you are getting it for free via one of our providers, the first step is to be qualified for the full Medicare subsidy. After this is confirmed and processed we then mail an at-home kit.
The at-home kit is simple and easy to use with the included instructions. In less than 5 minutes you can complete the test with a quick cheek swab.
Is there any risk in the at-home test?
With a cheek swab there is no risk to you, as thousands of seniors do this every month with no negative affects. But if you have a medical condition that makes you concerned about performing a cheek swab the best thing to do is to discuss this with your primary care physician, or if needed, genetic counselors.
If you want to learn more about the next steps after you take the test you can Click Here to read What Happens If My Genetic Test Is Positive?
https://osp.od.nih.gov/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/DTC_Consumer_Alert_Jul06.pdf
From the FTC Fact Sheet on Genetic Testing
Validity of Genetic Tests According To The FDA And CDC
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates the manufacturers of genetic tests; and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which promotes health and quality of life, some of these tests lack scientific validity, and others provide medical results that are meaningful only in the context of a full medical evaluation.
Claims Of Genetic Tests
Having a particular gene doesn’t necessarily mean that a disease will develop; not having a particular gene doesn’t necessarily mean that the disease will not.
To learn more about the benefits of genetic testing visit these links:
The History of DNA Testing
Is Genetic Testing Worth It For Seniors?
Why Seniors Benefit The Most From Genetic Testing
Can Medicare 100% Subsidize Genetic Testing?
