Questions To Ask When Taking A DNA Testing At Home
DNA testing is becoming increasingly popular among both online and retail consumers. This has a lot to do with the appeal of knowing one’s ancestry. But, there are many factors you should consider before getting an at home paternity test.
Here are some of the most important questions you should ask:
Q: How does an at home paternity test work?
A: Home DNA tests are like any other tests that you can do from the comfort of your living room or bedroom. You need to understand that this refers to the “collection” part of the test only. DNA extraction and analysis still has to be performed by an accredited lab. DNA testing results can take anywhere from 24 hours to up to 8 weeks, depending upon the type of test. So, be prepared to wait a while after submitting the sample.
Q: Difference between DNA testing through a doctor and at home DNA tests.
A: In certain health conditions, your doctor would order a DNA sample to be collected and tested. This would be done at your doctor’s office. Doctor ordered tests are usually comprehensive. Genetic counseling is sometimes offered as part of the services. Hence, these tests cost significantly more than what a modest at home test kit does.
However, there are certain tests offered by doctors that are available in at home versions as well. For instance, you can easily collect a sample for skin-care DNA test from the comfort of your home.
Q: What kind of sample is required in an at home paternity test?
A: The most common sample collected in at home paternity tests is saliva or cheek swabs. However, in some specific tests, blood drops may be required too. This greatly depends upon the type of test you want and the company you choose.
Q: Who can perform at home DNA tests?
A: People of all ages can undergo an at home paternity test. However, there are certain companies that require the participant to be at least 18 years or older. In most cases, minors can be tested upon as long as a signed consent is provided by the parents.
Q: Is DNA testing accurate?
A: Accuracy of DNA tests depends upon a majority of factors. The types of genes that get examined as well as the algorithm used as part of the test to calculate the results determine the accuracy level. At home paternity test is the only exception to this.
Q: What to expect from a home DNA test?
A: What you expect depends upon the type of DNA test you take. For instance, specific lifestyle tests can reveal a lot about your habits, your present condition, and ways in which you can improve your quality of life. Ancestry tests are one of the best known lifestyle tests. However, there are many others that are equally good at providing results.
For instance, skin care DNA tests can provide information about your skin at the cellular level. These tests reveal elasticity, collagen quality, antioxidant levels, and so much more. You can use this information to determine specific topical products that will benefit your precise genetic makeup.
