How to Find Out What Ethnicities You Have in You

You can learn your ethnic history through DNA testing.

Whether you are born Asian, Caucasian, Latino, American Indian or any other race group, your blood often reveals more than may be obvious only from skin color. Advances in science make it possible for you to determine very specific bloodlines. Learning your own genetic history can be a fascinating trip through time. Simply visit an appropriate lab or purchase a DNA testing kit through a reputable source.

Instructions

1. Visit your local pharmacy and ask for their DNA kits. These kits usually cost less than $100. You simply the kit home, wipe a cotton swab inside your cheek and return the test to the address that comes with the kit.

2. Ask your health insurance company if they cover DNA testing. Some may only provide coverage for legal reasons, such as establishing paternity.

3. Contact a medical lab affiliated with a local hospital; or a lab that operates independently. Some labs have DNA kits to take home, while other labs conduct testing while you are on site.

4. Participate in the Genographic Project in conjunction with National Geographic. Order a kit directly through the project and submit the materials back to them. A full deep-ancestry report will then be sent to you by mail. Males can order one of two types of tests: maternal or paternal lineage. Females may only order the maternal lineage test. Cost at the time of this article's publication is $99.95, and there are some other additional options you can choose to add to the basic test.

Tips & Warnings

• Anonymity is not protected in all cases. Fully investigate sources of information, or talk to the testers or lab about any concerns.

References

• National Geographic: The Genographic Project - How to Participate
• DNA-testing-cost.net: Ways to Save on DNA Testing Costs