Individuals who carry the breast cancer genes _BRCA1_ or _BRCA2_ are often unaware of the fact. That suggests that physicians need a new way to apply DNA-based screens to identify those at risk.
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Articles on Genetic testing
Displaying 1 - 20 of 51 articles
There is a need for genetic services in low and middle-income countries.
Alzheimer's is not only the third leading cause of death in the U.S. but also the most dreaded diagnosis. Genetic testing can help determine susceptibility, but knowing whether to test isn't easy.
The debate about the pros and cons of genetically screening embryos is deeply entrenched. Perhaps we should let couples decide.
The results of genetic ancestry tests are grossly over-simplified. A new study shows the tests reinforce what you want to believe rather than offering objective, scientific proof of who you are.
Genetics is influencing more and more of our decisions, but we can't make the right choices if we don't understand it.
More people are sending off saliva samples to find out about their genetic roots. But the raw DNA results go way beyond genealogical data – and could deliver unintended consequences.
A genetics testing company recently won approval from the FDA to market a test that can identify a breast cancer gene mutation. But what are women supposed to do with that information? There's risk involved.
Online genetic testing promises many things. Some are the stuff of fantasy, while others, even if scientifically feasible, still carry risks. Consider these five things before ordering a test.
Researchers are developing gene-based tests to better predict who will respond to different types of medication, and which to avoid.
It's exciting to think we're on the brink of a genomic revolution in health care. But just because new technology becomes available, it doesn't mean it should automatically be publicly funded.
In 2030, there is a boom in precision medicine, where diseases – from cancer to dementia – are defined and targeted more specifically with a focus on their molecular makeup.
DNA marketplaces powered by the blockchain and new cryptocurrency tokens promise to let you profit from your own genome.
The rapid growth of genetic testing and data-gathering could revolutionize health and medicine if governments work to protect people against privacy and societal risks.
New research offers insight into a thorny issue.
If you could take a test that would reveal the diseases you and your family might be more likely to get, would you want to do it?
Canadian insurance companies argue that a new law denying them access to genetic test results will raise the cost of insurance for everyone. That's doubtful.
Life insurance applicants must disclose genetic test results if required by the insurer. While other countries have protected consumers from this, there is no such regulation in Australia.
Most people will be much better off putting the money spent on a genetic test towards a gym membership, or a pair of trainers.
Most of us will be carriers of recessive genes that cause disease. If our partner carries the same gene we could pass it on to our kids. Testing exists, but what are the pros and cons?
Top contributors
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Assistant Professor, School of Law, University of Canberra
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Associate professor, University of Canberra
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Executive Director, Melbourne Genomics Health Alliance, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute
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Ethical, Legal & Social Adviser - Public Health Genomics, Monash University
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Head, Public Health Genomics Program, Monash University
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Ken Harvey is a Friend of The Conversation.
Associate Professor, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University
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Adjunct Professor, Murdoch University
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Professor of Health Economics and Director, Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation, University of Technology Sydney
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Research Fellow in Psychiatry, UNSW
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Professor & Head of Psychiatry, University of Adelaide
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Research Fellow in Biomedical Ethics, University of Melbourne
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Research Assistant Professor in Neuroscience, University of Western Australia
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Professor of Law, University of Tasmania
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Senior Research Fellow, Murdoch Children's Research Institute
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Director of Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute
