Genetic TestingGenetic Testing

Testing, Testing… 1,2,3Testing, Testing… 1,2,3

Genetic testing is most often used to

analyze human DNA to determine

whether an individual’s

genetic makeup indicates that he

or she is susceptible to

certain medical conditions during

his or her lifetime.

Genetic Testing in humans can help

determine ancestry, paternity and

whether it is likely that an individual

will develop certain medical conditions. The use of genetic testing aims to aid in early detection,

or disease prevention.

Applications of Testing Humans

Applications of Testing Humans

Other Testing ApplicationsOther Testing Applications

Genetic testing is not just available for use on humans. It can also be used to help discover new animal species, to trace bacteria in

food or even determine

geographic origin. How could genetic

testing be expanded in the future? What are other possible

uses?

Just a Click Away Just a Click Away

It is now possible for individuals to

purchase DNA testing kits online. Most often, they

submit a sample of their DNA by

spitting into a tube and mailing it back

in to be tested. These tests can

cost hundreds to thousands of

dollars.

A Done Deal?A Done Deal?The problem with internet testing kits is

that they are not consistent and offer

give inaccurate results. This can often lead to a

person fearing they will develop a disease in their lifetime that they are not actually

genetically susceptible to

develop.

In some tests, a sample of DNA from the one individual has

yielded different results from two

separate internet

companies.

Family TiesFamily Ties

Genetic Testing is especially helpful in analyzing the DNA of potential parents to

improve in vitro fertilization success

rates. It can also help determine the paternity of an

unborn baby, and whether the baby is at

risk for having birth defects such as Down

Syndrome.

Instead of analyzing fingerprints, it is now

possible for investigators to use genetic testing to

analyze DNA from a crime scene. In this way, unique patterns found in

the DNA of likely suspects can be

compared to the DNA evidence collected at a crime scene. This new

technology helps determine whether

someone is guilty of a crime.

Genetics CSIGenetics CSI

The benefits of genetic

testing continue to

grow as research on

disease prevention

and treatment increase.

By detecting predispositions to

diseases or medical conditions early, patients can

seek counseling and hopefully take steps to prevent, or treat certain

medical conditions.

Think Positive Thoughts Think Positive Thoughts

A huge disadvantage to genetic testing is that

patients are often given devastating news and have no access to a counselor or medical professional to help

them cope. The more widespread genetic testing becomes, the more these

professionals are stretched thin and become less

available. Many experts believe this role will soon fall into the hands of less-than-qualified individuals.

How to CopeHow to Cope

Getting a Head Start Getting a Head Start

Genetic testing can be very helpful in giving

individuals the opportunity to seek

health care that is both appropriate and timely. Doctors can use genetic testing to try to prevent

and treat diseases as well as develop and implement therapies

and treatments that are specific to a person’s

genetic makeup.

Many people worldwide fear that as genetic

testing becomes more common, employers

might base hiring, firing and promotion decisions

on whether an individual’s DNA

indicates that they are susceptible to disease. If an employer has access

to genetic testing results, is this an abuse

of power or an infringement of human

rights?

You’re FiredYou’re Fired

In addition to fears that employers will

abuse genetic testing results in their

decisions, many fear that insurance

companies will do the same. For

example, insurance companies could

charge higher premiums to those at

high risk, or deny health insurance

altogether.

Are You in Good Hands?Are You in Good Hands?

Should parents be

able to have their kids

genetically tested

without their consent?

On the Right Track On the Right Track

Is it okay to test the

likelihood an individual

has of developing a

medical condition

that has no cure?

Who should have

access to the

results of genetic tests?

Back to the FutureBack to the Future

There are many difficulties with genetic testing

that still need to be solved. Issues

involving accuracy,

discrimination and coping still

exist worldwide.

How can genetic testing

be expande

d? Should the government require genetic testing?