Traditionally, a genetic test was ordered by a doctor and the results would go to the doctor. Such tests would typically look at a small number of genetic markers to find out about a single trait or disorder.
Nowadays, as the cost of genetic testing falls, people have the opportunity to have large numbers of their genetic markers tested all at once. Usually this data is available to you directly. Often the company that does the testing will also offer some interpretation of the results, and this can include health information.
There is a lively debate about whether this type of service should be allowed to exist. There are good arguments on both sides. On one side are medical professionals and others, who correctly point out the risks of people being deluged with information about themselves that they may not be equipped to handle. “A little knowledge” can indeed be a dangerous thing. On the other side of the debate are those who make the argument that you should have access to all your own genetic information, because it belongs to you and you’re the best judge of how that information should be interpreted.
The list below contains a large variety of providers and services. Some of them are commercial firms that charge hundreds of dollars, while others are research programs that offer their services for free.
Here’s how it works. You contact a provider sign up for their service. If it is a commercial provider, you’ll pay up front. Then you will receive in the mail a small container which you fill with saliva and send back. Alternately, some providers will give you swabs to collect cells from inside your cheeks. You mail back your sample and in a few weeks, your results are available on the provider’s website. You’ll have a username and password, for security and privacy.
DNA testing for health could include carrier screening, which looks for genes do not affect you, but could affect your children.
