Genetic Testing or DNA Testing

724 Words2 Pages

Introduced during the 1980’s, genetic testing has become much more common and widespread. Genetic testing, commonly known as DNA testing, is a test in which a person’s DNA is tested for defects or mutations. People often use a genetic test to detect if they might have or might acquire a genetic disease that is common in their family. However, because there are various types of genetic tests, inherited mutations are not the only mutations test for. Due to the number of genetic diseases, testing is more common today. Mostly seen for its advantages, genetic testing also has ethical implications that may affect the way people live their lives.
The history of genetic testing has matured and become more advanced since the beginning. Genetic testing,“ initially used to make or confirm a diagnosis of a genetic condition”(“Genetic Testing” n.p.), started developing during the 1950s. During that time, discoveries helped scientists come up with genetic tests for down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Available today, there are several different types genetic tests, such as prenatal testing, diagnostic testing, newborn screening and more. DNA testing has developed from having to get the test done at the doctors to having it able to be done in a home starting in 2008. The beginning of “Internet offerings for DNA-based tests” started with the people who had “cash and spit to spare” (Lewis n.p.). The DNA-based tests have grown and now are available for at home use. At home DNA tests haven’t been around long and are used more often than people would think due to the fact they are more likely for false results.
Some people, despite the price, continue to have genetic tests done to help prevent future complicat...

... middle of paper ...

...ext couple of years. People want to live longer, they want their children to be normal, and they also want their children to outlive them. Genetic testing, in people’s minds, is one way they can be one step ahead of what could happen and one way they can be prepared.

Works Cited

"A Brief History of DNA Testing - New England Innocence Project." New England Innocence Project A Brief History of DNA Testing Comments. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2014.
"A Brief History of Genetic Testing." A Brief History of Genetic Testing. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2014.
"Genetic Screening Pros and Cons - HealthRF." HealthRF. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2014.
"The Pros & Cons of Genetic Testing." Quest Magazine Online. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2014.
"Understanding Cancer Series." Gene Testing. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2014.
"Understanding Cancer Series." Gene Testing. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2014.

Open Document