Health and Genetics Testing
What Is Health and Genetic Testing?
Health and genetic testing can also be called DNA testing. Several tests — like buccal swabs, blood, hair, skin or amniotic fluid — can indicate the risk or current state of developing a condition or disorder in your family. Many couples opt to receive genetic testing before having children to evaluate whether a mutated gene can be passed on to new generations.
Specifically, health and genetic testing looks at the following:
- Chromosomes: We check for changes in whole chromosomes or long strands of DNA, including an extra copy of a chromosome.
- Genes: We study DNA sequences for variations or mutations that can cause or increase the risk of a disorder.
- Proteins: We analyze the amount or activity level of enzymes or proteins for abnormalities.
Types of Tests
Several specific panels fall under the health and genetic testing umbrella. Results of some of the most popular tests fall into these categories:
- Genetic nutrition testing: Gain a better understanding of your body's ability to absorb micronutrients given your genetic disposition. Even if you eat a perfectly balanced diet, the way your body takes up nutrients can be compromised.
- Health predisposition testing: This is the most common form of genetic testing. The results provide information on the chances for you or your child to develop genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, Huntington's disease, sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis and certain cancers.
- DNA-based weight management: Learn about your genetic ability to lose weight and determine a diet and exercise plan based on the results of this testing.
- DNA testing for athletes: Some athletes opt for genetic testing to determine their injury risk and assess their ability for muscle building and endurance.
The Importance of Health and Genetic Testing
If there is any chance of a developing condition, you should consider getting genetic testing for it. This testing is completely voluntary but can help provide a sense of relief for an individual or parent. Additionally, it can help you decide on your future health plan.
Overall, health and genetic testing can:
- Test if you have a disease based on symptoms or genetic predisposition.
- Identify the risk for cancer, even without symptoms.
- Determine if you are a carrier for a genetic disorder like sickle cell anemia or cystic fibrosis before you have children.
- Analyze results for a medication or dosage care plan for effective care of a current condition.
- Detect abnormalities in your baby's genes before they are born.
- Screen your newborn for current conditions so doctors can start immediate treatment, if applicable.
What to Expect
Before testing, gather information about your family's medical history. These details can give doctors a better idea of what tests to perform and what to look for in the results.
Health and genetic testing is available at Test Smartly Labs for your convenience. Depending on the test you choose, we may collect a sample through the following means:
- Blood sample: As with a regular blood test, a needle will be inserted into a vein in the arm to draw out a sample. For newborns, the blood sample is taken from the heel.
- Cheek swab: A simple cheek swab may be all that is needed for some types of testing. Doctors can test DNA from cells in your mouth's mucosa.
- Other DNA collections: Some genetic tests may require a hair or skin sample for detailed DNA sequences.
- Amniocentesis: If you need a prenatal genetic test, a thin, hollow needle will be inserted through your abdominal wall into the uterus to collect a small sample of amniotic fluid.
- Chorionic villus sampling: This prenatal genetic test requires a tissue sample of the placenta, taken through a catheter into the cervix or a needle into the abdominal wall.
Your Results
Because Test Smartly Labs has a lab on-site, you should receive your health and genetic testing results within three to four days. Here is a brief overview of what your results could mean:
- Positive: The genetic change being tested was detected in your sample.
- Negative: The genetic change was not detected in your sample.
- Inconclusive: The test could not distinguish between a disease-causing and harmless gene.
Schedule Your Health and Genetic Testing at Test Smartly Labs
If you or a loved one need health and genetic testing, contact us online or walk into a Test Smartly Labs location today.
-
$189
This Cannabis DNA test is designed to help you understand how your body metabolizes and reacts to cannabis. There are numerous genetic traits associated with how cannabis may create unwanted side effects or personal health benefits on an individual level. You will receive a detailed personal report with your findings. This test may be useful in determining potential optimal THC and CBD dosing. Specimen Type: DNA
-
$389
GxRenew is a unique healthy aging program that utilizes your DNA profile to provide food, activity, nutrient, and lifestyle help and recommendations to keep you feeling and looking younger as you age. Research has linked numerous signs of aging to certain genetic predispositions, many of which may be addressed with genetic-based lifestyle changes. Specimen Type: Buccal Swab
-
$159
Personality traits are thought to have a genetic component. This test may provide insights into how your DNA affects your personality through a non-invasive DNA swab collection.
-
$179
This is a DNA test that identifies one's skin’s genetic potential. Based on unique DNA, this test evaluates collagen quality, protection from the sun, skin elasticity, pigmentation, antioxidants and overall skin sensitivity. Specimen Type: Buccal Swab
