What is genetic testing and how it can help you or your child?
Genetic testing uses laboratory methods to look at your genes, which are the DNA instructions you inherit from your mother and your father. Genetic tests may be used to identify increased risks of health problems, to choose treatments, or to assess responses to treatments.
Genetic testing can help to:
Diagnose a disease
Determine how severe a disease is or can be
Identify changes in your gene(s) that cause a diagnosis
Help your doctor choose the best treatment and medicine for you or your baby
Identify changes in your gene(s) that can increase your risk of developing a disease
Identify changes in your genes that could be passed on to your children (carrier screening)