Thinking about doing a DNA test? Read this before you do
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the blueprint of a person; each individual has a unique DNA that determines their individual characteristics and traits. It traces the long line of evolution a person has gone through. It was only in the 1940s that scientists found out that DNA molecules are passed down through generations in a family. Later in 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick discovered the chemical structure of DNA, which is now popularly referred to as the helix structure. The information in each person’s DNA is present in the form of a code, also known as genetic code.
This genetic code is read through a DNA test. According to many DNA testing reviews and DNA testing kits reviews, most people undergo DNA testing to know more about their ancestry and in some cases. family medical history as well.
Here are a few commonly asked questions about DNA testing.
What is the DNA testing process?
The DNA testing process requires specialized machinery, and primary tasks are conducted in a lab. The process comprises the following steps.
- Sample collection: This involves the collection of any bodily fluid or hair using DNA testing kits. One of the less invasive samples involves a cheek swab. All of these carry a person’s DNA.
- Cell lysis: This step involves adding an enzyme to a solution with the DNA sample in it and breaking down the cell membranes.
- Separation: The DNA is separated from the rest of the molecules in the sample.
- Copying: Copies of the DNA are generated.
- Testing: The copies of the DNA are tested to find genetic markers to identify a genetic relationship.
Does DNA testing work?
According to several DNA testing reviews, DNA tests done through commercial DNA testing kits only look at which geographical regions are home to most people with similar DNA signatures. These results are generalizations about genetics across large populations through time and across the world. So most DNA testing will be able to indicate a person’s first cousin or even third cousin if the DNA information of the cousins is stored in the system. However, DNA testing will not be able to accurately indicate whether someone is related to another person in the distant past. For example, a DNA test will not be able to accurately reveal if someone is related to Cleopatra or Harry Truman.
Is DNA testing accurate?
Most DNA testing reviews state that DNA testing for ancestry is never perfectly accurate. The biological results are just an estimation of a person’s ancestry. This is because a person inherits 50-50 genes from both parents. So, a test can suggest that a person has a specific ancestry but won’t be able to indicate whether it comes from the mother or the father unless both parents are tested as well. Some DNA testing kits also reveal potential health risks. However, the accuracy of the information on health is debatable.
Is DNA testing safe?
Most private DNA testing companies have privacy policies in place to safeguard the genetic information of their customers. Many such companies require explicit consent from customers to share genetic information with third parties. However, the genetic testing industry does face a risk of hacking, which may release DNA data to private servers. Moreover, according to experts, there are no stringent and broad laws to protect genetic privacy. Also, law enforcement and courts can easily ask these companies for a person’s DNA information under a subpoena.
Does DNA testing show the lineage of both parents?
According to most DNA testing kits reviews, tests based on autosomal DNA give broader results. Since a person inherits 50 percent genes from each parent, these tests can show the lineage of both parents. However, tests based on mtDNA (mitochondrial DNA) can only show a mother’s lineage. Also, Y-DNA testing can reveal a father’s lineage, but only for males.
Does DNA testing affect insurance?
The federal Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act does not allow insurers to ask for or use a person’s genetic information while deciding whether to sell them health insurance or while charging them for insurance. However, this privacy protection does not cover long-term life insurance, care policies, or disability insurance; it is necessary to read the fine print as most DNA testing reviews and DNA testing kits reviews do not reveal this. Also, if a person undergoes DNA testing after buying the policy, the results won’t affect the coverage.
Best DNA testing kits
Based on most DNA testing kits reviews and DNA testing reviews, here are some of the popular testing kits.
MyHeritage DNA
This is an affordable, efficient, and autosomal test-based DNA testing kit to find out one’s ethnicity and ancestry. Its features are as follows:
- Hassle-free collection kit
- Provides results within a short period
- Gives near-accurate ethnicity estimate
- Most comprehensive list of ethnicities available
- Helpful knowledge base
Read the MyHeritage DNA review here
Ancestry
With the latest cutting-edge DNA science and technology, Ancestry delivers in-depth historical insights to uncover family origins. Here are some of its features:
- Affordable pricing
- Quick results
- Largest DNA database
- Easy-to-use
- Commendable privacy policy
Living DNA
This is a 3-in-1 ancestry test that covers the family line ancestry, maternal line, and the paternal line (for males only). Its features are mentioned below:
- 3 simple steps to knowing your ancestry
- Extensive family networks
- Personalized ancestry book
- Assured secure testing
- Wide data search
Read the Living DNA review here
Is DNA testing worth it?
DNA testing reveals ethnicity, ancestry, and in some cases, inherent health disorders too. If a person is not sure about their ethnic background, a DNA test can be helpful. For those curious about their health, most DNA testing reviews and DNA testing kits reviews recommend that a medical expert should be consulted before opting for health-related DNA testing. Without expert consultation, unexpected test results may lead to undue stress and could potentially worsen health complications due to self-diagnosis. Although DNA testing can be useful, there are a number of privacy-related legal loopholes involved, especially in cases of commercial DNA testing kits. Before opting for such tests, it is best to gauge, on an individual basis, whether the requirement for DNA testing far outweighs privacy concerns.
