3 Types of Tests to Expect During Genetic Screening

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Your body has complex working mechanisms that you may not know a lot about. These metabolic processes and components take years of study and examination for experts before they can draw any conclusions. They are also the reason you cannot explain some of the phenomena that appear to have passed down your family tree across several generations. For example, why do some families have a persistent history of certain medical conditions? Does this have to do with something innate the related individuals? Well, genetic testing offers some answers to these disturbing questions.

The screening refers to the application of various tests to determine the presence, exclusion or susceptibility to a medical condition

 Here are some of the tests you should expect: Carrier Genetic Screening Have you ever heard of disease carrier? This is an individual with a disease or medical condition, but he or she never displays the symptoms of that disease. Specifically, a genetic carrier shares a similar description only that he or she inherited this trait or mutation from another person. They do not show any signs of illness or symptoms. Carrier screening identifies people carrying one copy of a genetic mutation. When this copy combines with a similar gene mutation, it results in a genetic disorder.

Carrier testing is essential for people who come from a family where there is proof of a genetic disorder

 It also applies to those who come from ethnic groups that display a high risk of developing certain genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anaemia. Newborn Genetic Screening Genetic disorders like phenylketonuria and congenital hypothyroidism can be treated and eliminated early in life. Don't let your newborn grow up with such conditions as they are not only life-threatening but also are extremely difficult to live with. Newborn screening looks out for such disorders to enable you to take action in good time. If there is a family history of any of the conditions mentioned here, it would be good to carry out genetic screening on your newborn as a preventive measure. Preimplantation Genetic Screening Assisted reproductive methods come in handy for many people who cannot conceive normally due to many reasons. The embryos created through such methods undergo many genetic changes, a scenario that can increase the chances of having a baby with a genetic disorder. Thankfully, preimplantation genetic screening is available to keep an eye on the genetic changes of the embryos, and only those free of harmful genetic mutation will undergo implantation. This ensures that you have a healthy and productive pregnancy.

Talk to a medical professional to learn about the benefits of genetic screening and learning about your genetic heritage.


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