Genetic Testing (Human Growth & Development)
Genetic diagnostic testing has been developed for many individuals with a history of disease in their families. The testing can identify if an individual has a defective gene.
For this discussion, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of genetic testing.
-Include whether or not you would have genetic testing done.
-Explain your answer.
Sample Solution
Genetic testing has become increasingly available in recent years and can provide individuals with valuable insight into their family history. Genetic diagnostic testing is commonly recommended to those who have a suspected or confirmed history of hereditary diseases in their family and involves the analysis of DNA to determine if they are at risk (Gurwitz et al., 2016). This test can be both beneficial and risky, so it’s important for people to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision on whether or not to proceed with the procedure.
The primary advantage of genetic testing is that it can allow an individual to gain knowledge about potential health risks they may face later in life due to inherited conditions, allowing them ample time for treatments or other preventative measures if necessary (Hirschhorn & Daly 2005). It also enables healthcare providers to diagnose certain conditions earlier than usual through screenings as well as allow them better plan treatments tailored specifically for each patient.
On the other hand, there are some potential drawbacks associated with genetic tests which should be taken into consideration when considering undergoing such a procedure. One disadvantage is that such tests cannot always detect all possible gene mutations associated with certain diseases due limited information present in databases used by laboratories during analysis (Fierer & Biesecker 2006). Another issue could arise from insurance companies possibly denying coverage based on data gathered from these tests which could lead people feeling reluctant towards going forward with them (Kilgore et al., 2014), finally ethical dilemmas relating privacy concerns may also pose difficulties when dealing with this type of situation (Nelkin & Lindee 1995).
Overall, while genetics tests offer numerous benefits regarding disease prevention and diagnosis accuracy; potential issues regarding cost-effectiveness , privacy infringements and limitation of detecting every single gene mutation should also be taken into account before deciding whether or not this type of diagnostic tool is suitable under specific circumstances.
