Is Genetic Testing A Type Of Medical Test - 2264 Words

To screen, or not to screen, is the question. Genetic testing is a type of medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins. The results of a genetic test can confirm or rule out a suspected genetic condition, help determine a person’s chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder or link up and reunite lost family lineage, ties (Sofge, 2014). For instance, the American reality TV star Snooki once thought she was Italian-American but her skin color was too dark. A genetic test showed that she had been adopted and her parents came from Chile instead. Regardless of the myriad benefits of genetic testing in solving various human mysteries and identification of people in criminal cases (innocent or guilty),†¦show more content†¦A chromosomal genetic test technique analyzes the whole chromosomes or long lengths of DNA to verify if there are any large genetic changes, such as an extra copy of a chromosome that cause a genetic condition of conc ern to one’s health ( Scuffham MacMillan, 2014). The biochemical genetic tests technique study’s the amount or activity levels of proteins; abnormalities in either may indicate changes to the DNA that result in a genetic disorder. Evidently, genetic testing can provide information about a person’s genes and chromosomes. The available types of genetic testing include: The newborn screening that is performed after birth to identify genetic disorders that can be treated early in life. In the United States (U.S), millions of expecting parents provide consent for their babies to be tested each year. Currently, almost all states test infants for phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disability and congenital hypothyroidism, a disorder of the thyroid gland if left untreated. Diagnostic type of genetic testing is done before or after birth to identify or rule out a specific genetic, chromosomal condition. In many cases, it is used to confir m a diagnosis in suspicious condition based on physical signs and symptoms (Scuffham MacMillan, 2014). The results of a diagnostic