A DNA or genetic test is a medical analysis performed to identify proteins, chromosomes, and gene changes. This test usually helps confirm or rule out a genetic disorder or get other specific information about health. Some DNA tests may even help determine a person’s susceptibility to developing a genetic disease or chances of passing one. For example, genetic testing can help diagnose a condition called Fragile X. It may also provide information about your risk of developing cancer.
Moreover, we share DNA with our family members. Hence, a person’s risk of getting a genetic disorder may denote their family members’ chances of developing the same condition. DNA testing can help identify such vulnerabilities.
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What are 3 Types of Genetic Tests?
No single genetic test can help diagnose or analyze the risk of all genetic conditions. Therefore, your doctor may choose from multiple genetic testing options, depending on your diagnostic requirements. Generally, your genetic test will be individualized based on the condition you are being tested for and your family history.
Here is a quick overview of the three types of genetic tests.
Single Gene Test
Tests that look for changes in only one gene are single-gene tests. This test is usually performed when your doctor believes that the symptoms in you or your child indicate a particular health condition. Examples of conditions diagnosed with this test include sickle cell disease and muscular dystrophy. This test is also used to check for a known genetic mutation risk in a family.
Panel Testing
Your doctor may use the panel testing option to look for changes in various genes in one test. However, each testing panel can only be used to check for changes in a particular group of medical concerns. For this reason, testing panels are generally grouped into different categories. A few examples of genetic panel tests are epilepsy, short stature, and low muscle tone. Some panel genetic tests can help check for gene changes that lead to breast or colorectal cancer.
Large-scale Genetic or Genomic Testing
Two large-scale genetic tests include exome sequencing and genome sequencing. Exome sequencing involves the analysis of all genes in the DNA or at least all genes related to medical conditions. Genome testing is more inclusive as it analyzes the entire DNA. These tests are usually performed during the medical evaluation of individuals with complex medical histories.
Customized Genetic Tests
Customized genetic tests provide a detailed overview of genetic changes in response to changes inside and outside the body. Some of those DNA tests include the following.
DNA sports
DNA sport is a test performed to analyze a person’s genes to guide recommendations for the personalization of fitness training. The report of this genetic test helps formulate the training advice for maximal power enhancement.
DNA sport is ideal for individuals looking to enhance the training effect and minimize injuries. You can speak to your healthcare provider to discuss the specifics of this genetic test.
DNA Diet
DNA diet provides every detail regarding foods, eating habits, and specific diet patterns that may have led you to gain weight. This test also helps your doctor formulate recommendations for you to include or exclude particular food items from your diet list.
The primary purpose of the DNA diet is to help you identify genetic specifics related to your weight gain. During this test, the doctor will try to find a link between your daily diet and your genetic structure. Based on this information, they will help you improve your diet to maintain or achieve a healthy body weight.
DNA Health
DNA health test is designed to analyze your genetic makeup to look into factors affecting your overall health and well-being. This test also examines the risk of developing chronic health conditions.
Based on the results of DNA health, your doctor may recommend medications and other measures to treat or prevent different diseases and conditions.
Benefits of DNA Tests
The results of a DNA test are either positive or negative, meaning that either your genetic mutation is a cause of concern or it is not. Whatever the scenario, the DNA test results will get you out of uncertainty. Based on those test results, you can make informed decisions about your health and wellness. For instance, a positive test result will guide you toward medical checkups and treatments. On the other hand, a negative test result will eliminate the need to proceed with further diagnosis.
DNA tests can help parents identify medical vulnerabilities in their newborns and older children. This way, they can take care of their children’s health in a more customized manner to prevent vulnerabilities from becoming health conditions.
DNA Genetic Test & Weight Loss Program FAQs
What limits does genetic testing have?
The limitations of genetic testing include the following:
These tests diagnose the problem but don’t cure them.
Genetic testing doesn’t say anything about the severity of a disease.
Testing errors can occur. So, choosing a reputable testing facility is imperative.
Interpretation of genetic testing reports can be challenging, sometimes even for a doctor.
Predictive testing won’t tell you whether you will have a disease in the future. It will only notify you about your genetic vulnerability to have that particular disease.
How accurate are genetic tests?
Since not all genetic tests are created equal, the answer to this question is not quite simple. The accuracy of genetic tests mainly depends on the medical facility. If they are credible people at work, you are more likely to get an accurate diagnosis.
That being said, the same cannot be said about online or direct-to-customer genetic tests. A recent review has shown that about 40% of online genetics tests were false. One of the reasons for this is these tests are not performed under the supervision of healthcare experts.
Can I eat before a genetic blood test?
Yes, you can eat as usual before a genetic test.
How long does a genetic test take?
The results of a DNA test are generally ready a week after testing.
Who qualifies for genetic testing?
It mainly depends on the type of DNA test you get. For example, DNA testing for cancer diagnosis is generally recommended for individuals above 18 years. However, most other DNA tests are not age-restrictive.
How is genetic testing done?
Genetic testing is usually performed on a sample from your blood or saliva.
Book an Appointment
Genetic or DNA testing allows you to identify your healthcare requirements and helps you tread towards your health and fitness objectives. At EuroMed Clinic Dubai, we have a state-of-the-art diagnostic facility to perform these tests. These tests are supervised by highly qualified practitioners who formulate personalized treatments or preventative instructions to help you with your healthcare requirements. For more information or to book a consultation, fill out the form below or give us a call.
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Dr. Hoda Makkawi, ABIHM, FAAFP
Physician Consultant Family MedicineDr. Hoda Makkawi has more than 20 years of experience in anti-aging, family, and integrative medicine. She is a DHA-licensed consultant who uses the most advanced treatment techniques, like bio-identical hormone treatments, to help her patients.
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