As medical sciences progress steps with the best of technology, Genetic testing continues to gain more popularity. However, it can’t be 100% reliable. From marking its importance in the Agriculture sector, Genetic testing is ready to transform human lives. But to what extent and cost? The advantages and disadvantages of genetic testing reveal the pros and cons of this modern method.
Genetic testing should be encouraged to identify complex diseases and disorders in humans. As a result, you can prevent disease, enhance human longevity, and mitigate the risk of a particular ailment. The following are some advantages of genetic testing worth considering.
The genetic testing system is based on in-depth studies of DNA sequences. The studies target the coding component of the genes that are related to specific diseases. This means, through genetic testing, the DNA sequence can be studied from start to finish to detect any disruptions or interruptions in structure.
It would be possible to identify the mutations or abnormalities in the patient’s body at the earliest. This way, it would be possible to spot the impact of a particular disease on the patient’s overall health.
Patients with genetic conditions are prone to uncertainties. Genetic testing is the way to detect and mitigate the risks with the proper treatment at the right time. Once you know the patient has not genetic mutation would reduce the uncertainty and eliminate panic situations. If the test is positive, you can plan to manage the problem by giving the patients proper treatment.
Accurate diagnosis means you can avail of accurate medication for a particular ailment. For example, women with breast cancer can detect their invasive stages and stop the spread of cancer in time by undergoing chemotherapy. One of the most significant advantages of genetic testing is that if you already have a disease, understanding whether you have a genetic variant can help doctors recommend the best treatments.
Not just determination and treatment, genetic testing is a great technology to cease the growth of genetic variants of a particular disease. As a result, you can make positive changes in your lifestyle according to the persisting conditions hence alleviating the risks of getting the disease in the future. For example, genetic testing can help you in case you are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Given the current health conditions, you can alter your lifestyle and lower the risks.
A genetic mutation can be detected in babies even before they are born. Therefore, genetic testing in the prenatal phase is available during pregnancies to help identify genetic diseases in the foetus. There are also several newborn screening tests using which you can determine if any particular conditions are requiring immediate treatment. The same is helpful for patients of older age.
Among the benefits, there are concerning disadvantages of genetic testing including cost and ethical use of technology. The following limitations of genetic testing are considered worldwide while many speak in favour of it.
The technology is highly advanced where DNA sequencing studies critically. The studies use hi-tech medical and scientific equipment, which make this study more expensive for people. The often-considered limitation of genetic testing is the cost (around $1000) which not everyone can bear unless covered by medical insurance.
A patient’s information is stored in databases or servers connected online in medical facilities. Privacy concerns may arise due to the fear that those who have access to patient’s data may misuse it or sell it for personal benefits.
The study of genetic variants is complex, the job demands a highly qualified and skilled medical professional to interpret the results accurately. In addition, a fault in the determination of DNA sequencing can lead to fatal results for patients.
Genetic tests are specific to the given conditions of a patient targeting an individual section of the body. Provided that it’s an expensive process, doctors may not recommend testing for something that merely exists based on light symptoms.
The decision to conduct genetic testing on the patient must be made based on the patient's family history and any specific symptoms they have.
Patients may feel panic if the genetic testing results are positive. Even if your family has a history of specific conditions, it’s not necessary that you also have the same conditions. Individual mutation can also impact the results. Individual mutations can also impact the results in your profile. But some may feel depressed even without reaching a conclusive state. When someone discovers they are a carrier, there is relief in knowing they have more control over future outcomes.
Conclusion on Pros and Cons of Genetic Testing
With genetic testing, modern medical sciences can detect and cure diseases that couldn’t be cured before. The proper diagnosis can help you determine the root of the problem, while a flyspeck of an error can turn fatal. The pros and cons of genetic testing can be complex, as each patient has a unique set of challenges to face. However, this testing method is helpful when there is effective therapy available to prevent or treat the condition tested for.
Genetic testing can benefit whether the findings are positive or negative for a gene mutation. In addition, test results might give people some measure of peace of mind and help them make intelligent health-related decisions.
A disadvantage or risk that may result from genetic testing is tension and worry, inconclusive or unverifiable findings, negative influence on family and personal relationships, illegibility for testing, and so on.
Genetic testing can help prevent unforeseen suffering and discomfort when used ethically. However, privacy, consent, bias, equality, and social engineering are all potential stumbling blocks that many people have faced before.
Furthermore, genetic and non-genetic testing may reveal details about a person's medical future. As a result, certain writers have argued that many genetic test findings may contribute to stigmatization, family conflict, and emotional discomfort.
The risk of serious physical harm from a genetic test is extremely rare. Blood and cheek swab testing pose virtually no danger. Prenatal screenings, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling have a tiny chance of pregnancy loss (miscarriage).