DNA testing in the healthcare sector

Whilst many DNA testing procedures are used for criminal investigations or to determine family relationships, they are also important tools in healthcare research.

Although we hear about DNA testing most often in the context of paternity suits or criminal procedures – more often than not on the television or in films – the process has wide-ranging and useful applications in healthcare.

DNA testing for drug reaction

A surprisingly high number of people react to prescription drugs. This means that either the drugs don’t work for them at all, or that they can have adverse reactions, causing damaging side-effects and potentially even a fatal response. DNA testing allows individuals to identify whether they metabolise drugs normally, or have a problem which may have an effect on the medicines they are prescribed.

DNA testing for cancer susceptibility

In patients where there is a clear case history of hereditary cancer, and where circumstances indicate that there is the potential for cancer to occur, DNA testing may be suggested as a way to identify whether the patient is susceptible to one or more types of cancer so that pro-active treatment can be taken where appropriate. DNA testing isn’t advised for those who don’t have a clear hereditary history, as it is unlikely to show any predisposition.

DNA testing for accurate diagnoses

There are cases where DNA testing can be used to ensure that diagnoses are accurate – particularly in those circumstances where symptoms are characteristic of more than one serious disease. In these circumstances, DNA testing may be able to isolate the relevant disease, enabling the patient to receive the right treatment as soon as possible.

DNA testing to identify organ donors

In cases where organ donors are required, DNA testing can help to determine which donors would be most suitable for certain recipients. In some cases, organs are more likely to function well if they are donated by someone who shares an element of DNA – a family member or even a more distant relative, for example. DNA testing will show whether or not the donor is suitable.

DNA testing is currently offering many practical benefits to the healthcare system and to patients, and its prevalence in many areas of research means that it is likely to continue to do so. Although DNA testing can only check for one thing at a time – and therefore may rule things in as well as ruling them out, it has an important place in the healthcare sector.

International Biosciences offer a broad range of DNA testing services designed to provide indisputable answers to emotional questions. Whether you seek to establish paternity, prove siblingship or research genealogy, for legal definition or peace of mind, we are able to provide the appropriate DNA testing at competitive rates, professionally and confidentially. Using state of the art technology we are able to provide conclusive evidence on time, every time. Contact International Biosciences on 01342 850945 or click here to email us.

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