Our genes play a vital role in shaping our personalities, behaviors, thought processes, and appearance. However, they also act as contributing factors to the development of several health conditions. Genetic testing is an effective means of determining one’s genetic predisposition to a particular disease and preventing future risks of developing the condition. Here are some things to know about genetic testing, from the benefits of the process to the conditions one can test for.

The benefits of genetic testing

To take preventive measures
Genetic testing is not the same as a diagnostic test — positive results do not imply that one has the disease. It only indicates the presence of the gene mutation causing the disease. Thus, testing for genetic vulnerability to a health condition allows one to take measures to prevent it if the result is positive.

A sense of relief for families
Family members are often worried about having passed on certain diseases to the future generations. Genetic testing can provide a sense of relief to family members in the case of negative results and reassurance in knowing that the disease can be prevented if the results are positive.

A pathway to accurate diagnosis
In many cases, genetic testing can be the first step to diagnosing a disease and starting the treatment course.

An integral aspect of family planning
Genetic testing is particularly recommended when a couple is planning a family and either or both individuals have family histories of specific diseases. Genetic testing at this stage helps take adequate measures to prevent passing on the disease to the future generation.

Genetic testing for specific conditions

Specific types of cancer
Specific cancer types, such as breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancer, are more likely to be genetically transferred than others. Thus, genetic testing is advisable if one has three or more relatives — particularly first-degree ones — from the same lineage who have been diagnosed with these cancer types.

Type 2 diabetes
Genes contribute more significantly to the development of type 2 than type 1 diabetes. Since lifestyle factors and nutrition also play a significant role in the development of diabetes, individuals can determine their genetic predispositions to the condition through genetic testing and change their lifestyles to prevent its onset.

Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is typically caused by mutations in the LRRK2, PARK7, SNCA, or PINK1 genes. Thus, genetic testing for Parkinson’s disease can be an important indicator of one’s susceptibility to the mental health condition.

Sickle cell disease
This condition is caused by mutations in a gene encoding the hemoglobin protein. Genetic testing for sickle cell disease accelerates preventive measures and paves the way for prenatal screening for the disease during pregnancy.

Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is caused by mutations in the cells producing digestive juices, blood, and mucus. While individuals with two copies of such genes inherit the disease, those with one cell may be carriers. Thus, genetic testing helps identify whether one is a carrier of the disease and take adequate measures.

Genetic testing is often linked with feelings of guilt and anxiety, particularly among family members, for passing on a disease to future generations. Adopting a positive approach to genetic testing and seeking counseling, if needed, can help individuals and their families cope well with results and take the necessary steps to prevent future risks.