Genes, the chemical messengers of heredity that carry the legacy of generations, are the key to our uniqueness and similarities. The smooth working of these genes helps in the maintenance of good health and optimum functioning of our system. A minute change in single or multiple genes can create chaos in this balance and result in diseases or deformities that may even be fatal.
The study of these genes, including their normal and abnormal functioning and variations in them due to various factors have given us considerable insight into how they can be possibly manipulated to treat diseases and disorders. Researches in the past decade have linked specific genes to specific diseases which has paved the way to a new branch of genetics-gene testing
Genetic testing involves extracting DNA from the cells of a person's blood sample or other body fluids and testing it to check for any disorder or disease. This is done not only to detect any existing conditions, but also to check the silent ones which can be foreseen and prevented. Genes can be deleted, misplaced, switched off, or be aberrant in function during various life processes, and these are often reflected in the form of different ailments.
The results of genetic testing are very accurate. Of course human errors like samples getting misplaced or lost do exist, but they are very rare since these tests are usually performed by experts and the instruments used to formulate the data are usually computerized. The records are usually stored in databases and can be retrieved as and when required. This blueprint that we are talking about usually remains the same throughout our life with insignificant changes, so once it is done, the data is reusable.
Usually the results are given in the form of permutations and combinations of the possible risks of particular diseases. If there is a presence of Alzheimer's in the gene map, accompanied by a family history, you will be asked to keep away from the factors that might trigger the onset of this disorder. Usually genetic diseases are dependent on a lot of other factors like environment, conditions of work place, climatic variations, and lifestyle.
If you are planning to undergo genetic testing, you might just be making the wisest decision of your life by being smart and sensible in choosing whether to let a disease become a part of you and your family. Knowing about your genetic makeup and planning accordingly can be the best choice towards the road to health and happiness.
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