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You have heard much about the Human Genome
Project and DNA tests. Research breakthroughs in genetic medicine
are in the news almost every day, promising a medical revolution.
What most people do not realize is that the revolution is
here. You can get genetic tests now to help with the diagnosis
of inheritable diseases and to personalize drug therapies.
If you are eager to get state-of-the-art treatment for a
current health problem, or if you are just curious about genetic
medicine, you have come to the right place. This website is
a resource for understanding how gene testing works to improve
medical treatment. You will also find information here about
non-medical DNA tests, such as paternity tests.
Ask Your Doctor
We strongly suggest that you consult your doctor if you think
genetic testing can help you. Genetic testing is not a stand-alone
solution to anything. It's a powerful tool when applied in
the context of regular medical treatment.
The information here will make you better informed when you
do talk to your doctor, and give you an idea of what's available.
If your doctor or a genetic counselor recommends you get a
particular test, you can learn about it here, and order it
through this site.
Practical Applications of Genetic Research
A person's DNA, the blueprint for their body, is fixed at
conception. Blue eyes, red hair, premature balding, unusually
tall or short stature are all coded in the genes. What scientists
are discovering, though, is that every person's DNA contains
millions of minor variations and mutations that manifest at
the cellular level. Some weaken the body's defenses against
a particular disease. Some affect the way that drugs are absorbed.
The genetic revolution is comparable to the revolution caused
by the invention of X-ray machines in the last years of the
19th Century. For the first time in history, doctors could
"see" inside the body. Now, for the first time,
doctors can "see" inside the genetic makeup of an
individual.
What can Gene Testing do for me?
When you get a gene test--usually a simple blood test or
mouth swab--a report is sent to your doctor that describes
in great detail the unique makeup of your cells as it relates
to inheritable disease, treatment, and prevention. Your doctor
uses the information to help make a more precise diagnosis
and prescribe the best treatment.
If there is a history of inheritable diseases in your family,
gene testing can also tell you your chances of getting the
disease. More on this in Testing
to Predict.
Gene testing can help your doctor prescribe the correct drugs
and the optimum dosage to treat a medical condition. This
is an exciting and powerful new field of genetic medicine
called pharmacogenomics. More information in Testing
for Treatment.
If you undergo gene testing for a medical condition, you
may need to consult a genetic counselor. Go to the Genetic
Counseling page for more.
Non-Medical DNA Tests
Gene tests have more applications than just medical. You
have read about gene tests used for positive identifications,
paternity tests, and immigration screening. Some of these
tests you can order directly. Go to DNA
Profiling for more information.
More Information
We have put links to more information on all aspects of genetic
medicine in the Resources section
of this website.
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