Genetic testing is a cutting-edge tool that examines your DNA to uncover valuable insights about your genetic makeup. It can unveil your risk factors for various hereditary conditions, help you make informed healthcare decisions, and even offer personalized guidance on lifestyle choices, like diet and exercise.
By understanding your genetic predispositions, you can proactively manage your health, potentially detect diseases early, and take steps to lead a longer, healthier life. Whether it’s tracing your ancestry or unlocking health secrets, genetic testing holds the promise of a more personalized, proactive approach to well-being.
What are the different types of genetic testing?
There are many types of genetic testing:
- Diagnostic testing is used to identify a disease making you ill.
- Predictive and presymptomatic testing is used to find gene changes that increase your likelihood of developing a disease.
- Carrier testing is used to find those who “carry” a change in a gene that is linked to disease, While carriers may show no signs of a disease, they have the ability to pass on the gene change to their children, who could develop the disease or become carriers themselves.
- Pharmacogenomic testing is used to determine how certain medicines are processed by an individual’s body.
What are the benefits of genetic testing?
Genetic testing can be beneficial whether the test identifies a condition or not. The test can eliminate uncertainty surrounding your health if it turns out a condition isn’t present. If a condition is detected, the test can also help doctors make recommendations for treatment or additional steps, and help you make informed choices about your future.
What is pharmacogenetic testing?
Pharmacogenetic testing is a groundbreaking approach that analyzes your genetic makeup to determine how your body metabolizes medications. By examining specific genetic markers, it can reveal which drugs are likely to be most effective for you and which might cause adverse reactions. This personalized information empowers your TKI provider to tailor your medication regimen, reducing the risk of side effects and optimizing treatment outcomes. In essence, pharmacogenetic testing ensures that the drugs prescribed to you are the best match for your genetic profile, promoting safer, more efficient healthcare.
Am I a candidate?
There are many reasons why you might get genetic testing. Your TKI provider may suggest it if you or your family have certain patterns of disease.
Are there drawbacks to being tested?
While genetic testing can provide important information regarding your health, it can also be scary to learn that you or a family member has or is at risk for a disease. Genetic testing also does not tell you everything about inherited diseases; for example, a positive result does not mean you will develop the disease, and you won’t know how severe symptoms may be.
Schedule genetic and pharmacogenetic testing in Marlboro or East Brunswick
If you are interested in genetic or pharmacogenetic testing, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at TKI. Your provider can answer any questions that you have and determine if a specific test is appropriate for you. Schedule an appointment in Marlboro or East Brunswick by calling 8-555-DRKAGA or you can request an appointment online using our quick and easy form.
