Cancer is caused by genetic changes, known as mutations or pathogenic (disease-causing) variants, in a cell. The mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably and develop into tumors. The mutations that can lead to cancer occur in genes that normally prevent tumors from growing when functioning properly. These mutations can be acquired throughout a lifetime and are caused by various risk factors including aging, environmental factors, and lifestyle factors.
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There are genetic tests available directly to consumers, with a sample collected at home, that provide a wide range of information from traits to ancestry, and even some health information. These genetic tests may be referred to as consumer-directed, direct-to-consumer or at-home genetic tests.
At-home DNA tests can be informative and empowering – even fun if you’re into discovering more about genetics or your health! However, what you might not expect when you take the test is that it can result in confusion or even concern if you weren’t ready for the results or are unsure how to interpret them. Want to put yourself in the shoes of someone who took a direct-to-consumer genetic test? Start below with NSGC’s interactive tool.
They say privacy is dead, but what about genetic privacy? This presentation, by Anya Prince, Associate Professor at the University of Iowa College of Law, will discuss the federal laws that regulate who has access to a person’s genetic information.
The joy that prenatal genetic testing has brought to gender reveal parties is undeniable: specialty cakes, powder-filled baseballs, a box full of pink or blue balloons. But that’s just one of several results you can get from prenatal testing.
Genetic tests that you can take at home are one of the fastest growing areas of genetics. However, not all tests are created equal and there are many nuances to the different tests that are available in the marketplace. This webinar will educate viewers about what’s involved in at-home genetic testing: the risks, benefits, limitations and differences between at-home genetic tests, as well as the importance of genetic counseling both before and after pursing at-home genetic testing.
Some might say our story is tragic, worrisome, and full of heartache and loss. But thanks be to God, who in His perfect timing placed in our lives a brilliant medical team and genetic counselor, Benjamin M. Helm. Because of Ben, we can say our story is one of life, miracles, love, and hope.
I remember it all so vividly: Our conscientious and compassionate geneticists had given us an ultra-rare diagnosis: hereditary spastic paraplegia type 47 (SPG47). There were nine others diagnosed in the world that they knew of at that time, and no one was researching treatment.
Our relationship with Melanie began after our son, Adam, and future daughter-in-law, Anne, went through genetic testing before their wedding. Based on their results, my husband and I were referred for testing as well. Adam had previously been diagnosed with myotonia congenita, a rare genetic disorder, so we were understandably anxious about further testing and what it might mean for our extended family.
Recently, I read in a newspaper article that I would soon be able to get my entire genome sequenced for less than $1,000. That’s crazy! Is this true? I thought that genome sequencing would cost like a billion dollars. Should I do it?