What is Genetic Testing?

what is genetic testing southern blot chart

When you were little and did something that drove your mother up the wall, there was a good chance you heard her say that the real culprit was not you, but your father's genes.   Happy as you may have been to be absolved, you possibly wondered- what are genes, and why were they responsible for your behavior? Well, your genes are your biological inheritance, and they are responsible for a lot more than... Read more >

Why Test My Child?

why should i test my child mother and baby

There are many benefits to genetic testing for children. Different tests are available that supply information on an individual’s ancestry. Genetic testing for children can also determine an individual’s predisposition to certain genetic diseases and conditions. Early diagnosis of a genetic disease gives an individual a better chance for a healthy life.   Genetic effects on child development can be... Read more >

Genetic Privacy

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Privacy and discrimination in genetic testing are growing concerns as genetic tests increase in popularity. Genetic test results can enable individuals to determine their risk of developing many inherited diseases, which allows them to prepare themselves and take preventative measures against these disorders.   However, without DNA privacy rights in place, genetic testing could also give others the... Read more >

Genetic Counseling

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Once you have decided to have a prenatal genetic test for your baby, genetic counseling for a pregnancy has many benefits. Genetic counseling assesses a couple's risk of passing genetic disorders on to their children. A genetic counselor is a trained professional who can identify such risks and explain them to a family. Types of Genetic Disorders Genetic disorders result from abnormal changes, or mutations, in a... Read more >

Your Child's Genetics

MGC child genetic information boy on jungle gym

Never before have so many people been so concerned with living long and well, eating right and obtaining the best and most comprehensive health care available. With genetic testing now available to the general public, people can use the information in their DNA to lead their healthiest lives possible.   What to eat, what to avoid, what to talk to your doctor about – think what you may have done... Read more >

Talking to Your Doctor

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Parents with a history of genetic medical conditions in their families may want to consider genetic testing for their children. After the parents receive the results from their child's genetic test, they may want to talk to a doctor, pediatrician or genetic counselor, who can explain the test results.   Parents should prepare to discuss genetic screening by providing the doctor with the child's personal and... Read more >

Sharing With Your Child

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If you have a strong family history of a genetic disease such as cancer, you may be considering having your child tested. If your child tests positive for a genetic mutation, it may be difficult for you to process the information, and even harder to share it with your child. Even though it is challenging, an honest discussion with your child can relieve stress in the long run by: easing children's fears through... Read more >

Overview of Genetics

overview of genetics dna double helis

Have you ever wondered why your eyes and hair are a certain color? Or why you grew to a certain height, and then you stopped? Our traits are determined by our genetic information, which is passed on to us from both of our parents. Every person has a unique set of genes, which is what makes us all so different. Genes play a factor in countless aspects of your physical characteristics, your personality, and your... Read more >