DNA testing has become an riveting trend in recent years, there is much to be discovered about yourself through DNA tests making the process exciting. Whether you’ve been tested before or are considering getting tested, it’s always good to have some background information. Below is a list of six facts related to DNA testing, essentially all you need to know.

1. Simplicity

To get your DNA tested, you should order a DNA testing kit from CRI Genetics. Once the delivery arrives, all you need to do is swab the inside of your cheeks, put the sample in a pre-labelled container, mail it and wait about two months for your results. It’s that easy and also affordable.

2. Genetic Variations

Once your sample has been received by the DNA testing company, they will look for genetic variations using single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs for short.

A lot of DNA is shared among humans since we are all the same species, SNPs differ from person to person which is why it is used to analyze your origins and genetics. Your SNP information can indicate specific information, such as the colour of your eyes or diseases you’re prone to.

3. Accuracy

There are limits to science, this means that DNA testing won’t always be entirely accurate and your results may vary depending on the company you choose. The accuracy of results vary because of the testing methods used, number of comparisons to other genetic variations and database information.

The testing methods used by DNA testing companies relies on educated inferences and logic. While the results will be accurate 99% of the time, there is still a 1% chance that the inferences made are incorrect. Be sure to take your results with a grain of salt, perhaps even seek complementary information if you’re unsure.

In addition, certain traits are difficult to determine by looking solely at your DNA. For example, intelligence is a mix of numerous genes and environmental factors meaning that it can’t be understood easily merely through a DNA test. Companies that claim they can determine genetic information such as your intelligence should be avoided.

Lastly, the databases available for DNA testing companies can be limited for certain populations. Your DNA sample is compared to existing DNA samples within a database, however, if there are limited samples related to your origins, the results may be weak. Although, with DNA testing so readily available today, databases are growing and will become more broad over time.

4. Prescription DNA Tests

With the recent advancements in DNA testing, doctors are prescribing DNA tests to determine ideal treatments for their patients. One example is using DNA to identify the best medication for an individual struggling with a psychiatric condition. Another example is testing individuals with fertility issues to determine the best way to work around the problems.

These types of DNA tests are much more costly and, at times, are criticized heavily. Some argue that there is not enough DNA evidence to support the correlation of DNA to treatment methods. That being said, some individuals may have tried other methods of treatment without success and DNA testing is another alternative that might work for them.

5. Research

Your DNA sample could contribute to research and help grow the DNA body of knowledge. Certain companies will extract your entire exome and connect you with researchers. Those researchers will be looking for correlations between your DNA and other traits which helps grow the DNA body of knowlege.

6. Surprising Results

Your DNA testing results may be surprising. You may find out about relatives that you never knew you had, including unexpected paternity. Also, you may find out that you’re prone to certain diseases, even cancer, which can be difficult to come to terms with.

Before getting tested, it is recommended that you understand the possibility of shocking results to prepare yourself.