I anticipate obtaining my DNA profile. My DNA profile will clear my anxiety on the possibility of developing diabetes mellitus later in life. I have strong familial history of diabetes mellitus. Therefore, information on my genetic makeup will greatly inform my lifestyle decisions. Knowing one’s genetic makeup has both pros and cons. Genetic screening enables one to plan ahead. Results of a genetic screen can reveal carrier genes that can predispose someone to certain diseases. The information can be used to seek further treatment or seek any available treatments. In addition, it acts a stimulus for lifestyle modification. Information on genetic makeup can be a source of relief to an individual. This is true if there is a history of a certain disease in the family. The absence of susceptible genes can calm down a person who was initially nervous (NIH, 2017) . Genetic screening provides valuable information that can be used by a couple to decide whether they need to have children. This information relates to issues of lethal or defective genes likely to be transmitted to the offspring (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018) .
Sometimes the results of genetic screening can be deceptive. This is because normal genes can undergo mutation. Mutation in this case can be accelerated by environmental factors. Therefore, a test showing a normal genetic composition can change depending on the exposure of body cells to mutagens. In addition, genetic screening has the potential to yield more anxiety than was present before. This is especially the case with results of a genetic predisposition to a disease without cure. One such example is the increased risk of developing Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. This is a disease characterized by muscle stiffening, twitching and loss of muscle mass leading to generalized body weakness. This disease does not have a known cure. Therefore, if the gene associated with it is identified, this can lead to desperation and anxiety. Further, genetic screening can also yield false positives. This can also lead to anxiety. It can also lead to retesting and thus increased costs (NIH, 2017) .
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References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018, June 4). Genetic Testing . Retrieved from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/gtesting/genetic_testing.htm
NIH. (2017, July 14). Is genetic testing right for you? Retrieved from NIH: https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/is-genetic-testing-right-for-you
