How to choose the right genetic test for your needs
Which genetic test is right for you?
There are numerous genetic detection techniques, but it's no less true that the variety of options is vast. It should also be noted that, in some cases, these tests are performed ex officio by public agencies.
The lower cost of genetic testing makes it easier for individuals to perform them. This is especially beneficial for certain situations, whether related to health, well-being, or even curiosity. Since it's possible to compare different companies and laboratories, it's easier to find out which genetic test is appropriate, based on methodology and cost, for each case.
Therefore, it's important to know which type of genetic test is appropriate for each case. Let's review the options and methods:
1. Probabilities of suffering from a disease
The chances of suffering from a disease They can be identified through general or specific screening. You may need additional testing later, but initially, this can be ruled out.
For example, the single gene tests would be useful if there is any antecedent in your family of monogenic diseases, hence they provide exclusion or require further testing. The Genetic panel , on the other hand, is more generic, but serves for different markers. There are also genetic compatibility tests in those couples who wish to conceive. And we cannot fail to mention the carrier test , equally effective for this type of checks.
It's worth noting, however, that these types of tests are preventive in nature. That is, they can even be used for family planning or simply to rule out risks.
2. Appropriate genetic testing: detection of a disease
When there are already reasonable suspicions of suffer from an illness , it is necessary To do this, you can use either whole genome sequencing or a chromosomal or monogenic test. This way, you can specify and make important decisions.
We must point out that this detection can be done at any time in life. It is more common in newborns or children , but it's possible at any time in life. For this reason, it's good to have the opportunity to take the test and find out which one is best.
3. Detection during pregnancy
During the pregnancy , it is possible to check whether the fetus has any type of problem or genetic disease. Although the techniques are more invasive, the existing possibilities are similar to those in other cases. Basically, they can be done biopsies , take blood samples or amniocentesis , to analyze the samples and make decisions about them. A fetal DNA sequencing and thus know the status.
These techniques are especially recommended for high-risk or late-term pregnancies. In both cases, these preventive checkups are especially important to avoid future problems and make informed family planning decisions.
4. Determine paternity
The tests for determine paternity They are of great importance for legal reasons. Nowadays, they are already required by courts and there are several options. The most common is to take a sample of oral mucosa and analyze it, with 100% effectiveness. To do this, what is done is to compare the genetic fingerprint of the son and that of the alleged father, to see if there is a match.
This is one of the most requested tests today. But, beyond legal conjugation, it can also be requested informally to establish or rule out paternity. Often, it can be the preliminary step to a legal test, hence its importance.
5. Nutrition and dietetics
Another possibility that exists is to make a genetic testing for reasons of nutrition and dietetics . Not surprisingly, this can help you improve your health, but also improve your performance if you're an athlete.
The best option, if you want to do a test focused on this, is a test that captures different Genetic polymorphisms . This can be obtained from saliva. This allows us to determine how your body absorbs certain nutrients better or worse. Anyone looking to diet or simply balance their metabolism can obtain very useful information.
However, it should be noted here that the tests vary in complexity. This will depend primarily on the number of polymorphisms being analyzed.
6. Exposure to medications
The exposure to medications It's a delicate matter, since a negative reaction can be counterproductive. If there's any history or suspicion, a pharmacology test is a way to dispel any doubts.
It should be said that, in these cases, the option is chosen genotyping of certain markers . Furthermore, there are specific pharmacogenetic tests depending on the type of condition. Not surprisingly, cancer and thrombosis are the same.
This information is especially useful for exploring the possibility of alternative treatments. And, if that's not possible, for determining how to minimize the negative effects.
7. Determine ancestry or ethnic origin
In recent years, and for research reasons or simple curiosity, genotyping tests have become widespread for determine ancestors of several generations. To do this, you can take the tests of the Y chromosome , of the Mitochondrial DNA or, more commonly, of different polymorphisms.
It should be noted that, in this case, the individual's DNA origin is typically expressed as a percentage. For example, an individual may have 30% North African heritage, 40% Iberian heritage, and 30% Central European heritage. Many university and scientific research institutions, and even governments, are interested in understanding this genetic background.
This test is generally easy to perform because a cheek swab is sufficient. There are numerous options, with varying levels of detail and markers.
In summary…
Choosing the right genetic test will help you resolve any doubts you may have. At Genotica, you'll find numerous options so you can choose the best one for you, comparing features, prices, and shipping times. Contact us . to find out more!