The history of genetics can be traced back all the way to 1866 when Gregor Mendel published a paper on inheritance, and the existence of dominant and recessive traits. Since then the complete human genome has been completed as well as the development of numerous technologies (Hales). Genetic screenings are tests that can be used to find out if a person’s genes or chromosomes may be linked to a health condition; screening can also identify changes in a person’s genes (Genetic Testing and Screening). Abnormal results on these tests could mean that someone has a genetic disorder (FAQ about Genetic Testing). The field of genetic screening has had much technological advancement that can be seen through the procedure of screening, the types of genetic …show more content…
To begin, genetic testing is a very advanced technology; the procedure is a detailed process. Genetic screening is a process that analyzes blood or skin cells for the analytical search to look for a particular genotype, or problem in a defined population. It also serves as an important tool of modern preventive medicine (Karthikeyan). Once a person decides that genetic testing is something they would like done, a medical professional that specializes in genetic testing, a primary care doctor, or nurse practitioner can order the test to be done (How is genetic testing done?). The sample of cells can come from, hair, the blood or amniotic fluid that surrounds a fetus or a cheek swab of skin cells. The cheek swab is one of the most common samples; it is called a baccual smear. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where technicians look for specific changes in chromosomes, DNA, or …show more content…
The test often can’t determine if a person will show symptoms of a disorder, how severe the symptoms will be, or whether the disorder will progress over time. It also cannot determine what stage the disorder is currently in. Another major limitation is the lack of treatment strategies for many genetic disorders once they are diagnosed, this creates panic with no immediate solutions (What Are the Risks and Limitations of Genetic Testing?). There are both physical and emotional risks involved in the process of genetic screening, and the lack specific information found by genetic screening can cause physical and emotional