How to Decide Whether or Not to Get Genetic Testing

Genetic testing is on the rise, but is it right for you and your family? Well, there are many reasons why one would choose to get genetic testing done. It can help a person struggling with major life decisions such as; career choices, family planning, medical and life insurance just to name a few. But there are things to consider before you get tested both good and bad. Whatever your decision, if you get tested, you must be prepared for the outcome and it's repercussions either way.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• time to decide rationally
• willingness to know

1. 

   You may find out that you may carry a gene that you could pass on to an unborn child. It may be a condition you would not want your child to bear which could affect your decision to try to get pregnant in the first place.

2. 

   You may find out that you carry a particular cancer gene. Which could make you more diligent in pre-testing so that treatment could be begin earlier if anything is eventually found.

3. 
   www.ornl.gov

   If you have already been diagnosed with a disease, genetic testing can be confirmation of a diagnosis, which could be a factor in your treatment.

Tips & Warnings

• Whatever your decision, if you get tested, you must be prepared for the outcome and it's repercussions either way. It's a big decision. There are genetic counselors available to go over the pros and cons of your specific situation.

Resources

• Government Listing of Genetic Counselors

[Desula]

on 7/19/2008 This is good information on a sensitive subject.

[purrfect1969]

on 7/17/2008 Interesting subject I never knew really existed.

[Sprice]

on 7/17/2008 Great topic! im not sure if i would do this or not

[LilacGirl]

on 7/14/2008 Never thought of this, but it's good to know you have the option to do this.

[vikki9]

on 7/6/2008 Good information. Great to suggest counseling for anyone who isn't sure and for some reason must consider testing.