Share:

Genetic testing measures the change in or presence of certain chromosomes, genes, or proteins. Tests can determine paternity, country of origin, the presence of hereditary diseases or health conditions, and more—over 1000 genetic tests are currently in use. Read more to discover the benefits of genetic testing, provided by Artesia Drug and Alcohol Screening in Artesia, NM.

Why Get Genetic Testing?

Assessing Genetic Risk

This type of testing is done to determine the genetic risk of certain diseases, such as specific cancers, or for expectant mothers to understand potential hereditary risks to their unborn children. Newborns can also be tested to determine the presence of treatable genetic disorders such as hypothyroidism or phenylketonuria (PKU).

genetic-testing-for-paternityGenetic tests are not generic—you must test for the specific issue of concern. Typically, a doctor will order a test for you based on current health conditions and family history. For pregnant women, genetic tests may be done via a blood draw, amniocentesis, or chorionic villus sampling. Tests for other conditions may be done via blood test or DNA swabs from the inside of the mouth. Results of your specific tests can guide decisions about prevention, treatment, or in the case of pregnancy, where and how to give birth.

Determine Paternity

In some cases, a woman may need or want to determine the exact paternity of a child. Genetic testing can confirm the father with a simple blood test from the woman and a DNA sample from the father or the supposed father’s parents. New, non-invasive tests enable expectant mothers to obtain paternity confirmation as early as 8 weeks into the pregnancy. In the case of adults seeking to confirm identity of biological parentage, genetic testing can confirm this too. 

Confirm Country of Origin

DNA testing is popular now in the search for genealogical information and to investigate ancestry and country of origin. At-home tests are adequate for this type of testing, although you will want to make sure to order a quality test from a reputable company. Or, you can choose to have testing at a facility to ensure accuracy.

Genetic testing provides answers to many questions about health, parentage, and origin. Artesia Drug and Alcohol Screening offers paternity testing, DNA testing, country-of-origin and drug and alcohol testing. Call (575) 746-3404 to make an appointment or go to their website to learn more about their facility and services.

tracking