DNA Genetic Testing

DNA Genetic testing

 

Genetic testing involves taking some of a person's DNA, generally from a swab of saliva or a sample of blood. The sample is then searched for signs of mutations or irregularities in the DNA code. But diseases are complex and the test results can be difficult to interpret.
In the case of some diseases – such as Huntington's disease and cystic fibrosis – the cause is almost 100 per cent genetic. Testing for these kinds of illnesses has been around for some years now and is able to provide a clear diagnosis.
But other diseases are far more complex and need multiple genetic markers to be present. These diseases are also affected by environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle, for example cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Predictive genetic testing, which is a relatively recent practice, can give you some idea of your risk of developing these types of diseases.
When performed appropriately, genetic testing is "very powerful and useful", says Ron Trent, a professor of molecular genetics at the University of Sydney who has been involved in the field for more than 20 years. "But if not used appropriately, it is a waste of time."
If you think you might benefit from a test, you'll need advice on which test (if any) is appropriate and where to get it. Your GP may be able to help or you can go to a specialist centre.
"Within our public hospital system we have lots of clinical genetic units," Trent says. "They are a very good first point of call. In the clinical genetics units, the counsellors and the clinical geneticists can assess the risk and can refer the patient on for testing or refer them onto another specialist."