Radio Shows | Whole Genome Analysis and You | mp3 … wma … wav

Have you ever heard of celebrity "spit parties" where the rich and famous provide their DNA for testing?

Well, you can too, right from home. Just send off your sample and a number of commercial companies will test it and analyze it for you.

What they determine is whether you carry any of the million genetic variations in the DNA sequence called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs.

Certain SNPs are associated with particular traits, syndromes or diseases. They can also determine interesting traits, such as eye color and the ability to taste bitter flavors. It can also reveal your ancestry.

Though fascinating this kind of testing is ahead of law and society. There are few government regulations to protect consumers and since most family doctors are unable to interpret the data, consumers have only the analysis made by the commercial provider.

Except the data isn't so easy to interpret. For example, it should be done in context. If the genetic test indicates you have a 20% increased risk of developing diabetes, you also have to consider your age, weight, body type, and exercise regimen and if you have relatives with diabetes.

Plus, if the results are disclosed, it could possibly impact employment opportunities, insurance coverage and even personal relationships. On the flip side, it's great if it helps motivate someone to get healthier.

But consider if for example you're 30 and your genome showed you're going to develop Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig's Disease? Would you live life any differently? Would you have children?

So before spending hundreds or thousands of dollars, think about what information you want, talk to your doctor, and get advice from genetic counselors. Just because we have the technology does not mean it is something we should use.

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