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STEM- Predictive Genetic Testing Essay

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STEM- Predictive Genetic Testing Essay

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830070610
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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STEM- Predictive Genetic Testing EssayX

How does genetic testing work? How much does it cost? Is it dangerous? These are some of the many
questions people might have about genetic testing. Genetic testing is a test that studies your DNA
sequences to identify variations in genes that can cause or increase the risk of a disease. Genetic testing
was created in the 1950s with the discovery that an additional copy of chromosome 21 causes Down’s
Syndrome. Scientists developed methods for staining chromosomes so they could be sorted and
counted. Genetic testing can predict if you have a disease even if you don’t have the symptoms yet.

Genetic tests are done using a blood or saliva sample and results are usually ready in a few weeks. The
sample is sent to a laboratory where technicians look for specific changes in chromosomes. The cost of
genetic testing can range from under $100 to more than $2,000, depending on the nature and
complexity of the test. Testing is not perfect, but it can often help you make decisions about your health.
Genetic testing itself is not dangerous, but it may increase your stress and anxiety if you do have an
inherited disease.

Genetic testing plays a vital role in determining the risk of developing certain diseases as well as
screening and sometimes medical treatment. A person affected by a certain condition has a 50 percent
chance of passing the altered gene to the child. The chance that the child will not inherit the altered
gene is also 50 percent. To find out if your child inherited an altered gene, you could take a different type
of genetic test called a prenatal test. If you’re pregnant, tests can detect some types of abnormalities in
your baby’s genes.

Genetic testing has its downsides, but it has many benefits. You can learn if you have an inherited
disease from a family member even if you don’t have symptoms yet and you can start making decisions
about your health. However, it can be very expensive, and it can cause stress and anxiety. Most people
don’t want to do a genetic test, and that’s okay! It is your choice. Genetic testing has changed over the
years, and it will continue to change.

Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/genetic-testing/about/pac-20384827#:~:text=Genetic
%20testing%20plays%20a%20vital,screening%20and%20sometimes%20medical%20treatment

https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/gtesting/genetic_testing.htm

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/genetics/genetic-testing-for-cancer-risk/should-i-get-
genetic-testing-for-cancer-risk.html#:~:text=The%20obvious%20benefit%20of%20genetic,make
%20decisions%20about%20your%20health.

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