What Could I Learn From Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing is a journey into the very fabric of what makes you who you are. It’s a technology that can illuminate the past, inform the present, and influence the future. Here’s what you can learn from genetic testing, guided by a genetic counsellor:
Understanding Your Genetic Heritage
Genetic testing provides a window into your whakapapa/ancestry and heritage, offering insights into the connections between people and the traits and conditions that have been passed down through generations. It’s like having a detailed map of your genetic lineage that helps you understand where you come from and what genetic legacies you carry.
Assessing Health Risks
One of the most significant benefits of genetic testing is the ability to assess your risk for certain inherited diseases1. Genetic testing can identify genetic traits that may put you (and others in your family) at an increased risk of developing conditions like cancer or heart disease. Support from a genetic counsellor will enable you to understand complex genetic information and the options available for genetic testing, risk management and medical interventions. This knowledge empowers you to make informed health decisions, such as lifestyle or environmental changes and can impact access to risk reducing screening or management1.
Family Planning
For couples considering starting a family, genetic testing can be invaluable. It can define the risk of having a child with an inherited condition, allowing for informed decisions about family planning1. Understanding your genetic makeup and that of your partner can guide you in making choices that are best for the health of your future children.
Personalised Health Strategies
Genetic testing isn’t just about identifying risks; it’s also about creating personalised health strategies. Knowing your genetic predisposition to certain conditions allows for tailored preventive care, such as starting screenings earlier or more frequently1. Genetic testing can also guide specialists in providing the best medicines at the most effective doses, based on your genetic make-up. This supports better responses to treatment and can reduce side-effects.
Access to Cutting-Edge Research and Treatments
Access to genetic testing through a genetic counsellor can enable you to be connected with the latest advancements in genetics and medicine. Genetic counsellors can guide you to cutting-edge research and treatments that may be relevant to your genetic profile1.
Informed Decision-Making
Armed with knowledge about your genetics, you can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your family. Whether it’s supporting other family members to access genetic testing or choosing a particular medical intervention, genetic counselling equips you with the information you need to make choices that align with your values and health goals1.
Learn more:
If you would like to read more about this topic, you may find these resources helpful:
Looking for more information?
Here are some websites that may be useful.
Human Genetics Society of Australasia Home (hgsa.org.au)
Genetic Health Service NZ Home | Genetic Health Service NZ
Centre for Genetics Education Home