DNA testing: What to know about accuracy & results
Genetic testing helps people learn about themselves, from health to ancestry, or even solving paternity disputes. However, the benefits of DNA tests are only accessible if the tests are accurate. Testing errors can result in misinformation as severe as incorrect paternity and even wrongful convictions in court. If you’re searching for “DNA testing near me”, be sure you understand the companies’ testing methods as well as to ensure accuracy. The article highlights the essence of executing accurate DNA tests and patronizing the right companies.
How accurate are DNA tests?
The best part about DNA tests is that most of them are accurate. In recent years, DNA sequencing has become accessible in terms of DIY home kits and price. When a reputed laboratory staff performs genetic markers, the process is 99.9% accurate. Most DNA testing laboratories are CAP-accredited and CLIA-approved–meaning medical professionals can interpret the lab results. That said, there are some instances where the DNA screening provider is inaccurate, resulting in negative or false reports. In case of inaccurate DNA test results, individuals suffer from wrong medical information and lose court proceedings on inheritance or paternity disputes. This is where it’s extremely important to source your DNA test from a reliable and reputable company or laboratory.
Reasons for taking DNA tests:
Forensic science
Experts perform DNA screening for crime investigations, and there is no room for mistakes or errors. DNA tests investigate suspects by analyzing samples found at the crime scenes. The samples include bloodstains, fingerprints, and hair strands. The principle of the approach is that every person has a unique DNA. If the experts successfully find out the sample owners, they confirm or exclude who was involved in the crime.
Screening of diseases
Accuracy in DNA screening helps determine whether a person is vulnerable to genetic diseases before experiencing symptoms. Some diseases are rooted in genes, and treating the symptoms is not ideal. Medical experts recommend DNA screening to unlock whether the individual is prone to diseases like cancer, heart disease, autoimmune diseases, and genetic illness.
Discovering the ancestry
Individuals eager to learn more about their roots and their family’s origin opt for DNA tests (preferably DIY home kits). DNA ancestry screening traces the ancestors up to ten generations. In addition, the test can assess the ethnic roots. Accurate DNA matching helps clients or customers find deceased and living relatives and connect with their distant family.
Establish paternity
One of the prime goals of DNA tests is to evaluate paternity. When there is a paternal dispute (failure to guarantee the biological father), DNA tests settle the issue. Children inherit 50% of their genes from both parents. Assessing and comparing the kid’s DNA with the potential father solves the dispute if the DNA matches 99.9%. Legal paternity screening doesn’t allow at-home DIY kit reports in court proceedings. Certified or licensed DNA testing laboratories can take the test results and use it in court.
Where accuracy really counts
Inaccurate DNA test results can be detrimental depending on the circumstances. See below for a few areas of testing where multiple tests should be administered to ensure accuracy:
Forensics
DNA tests in forensics determine whether an individual is guilty or not. Inaccurate test results make innocent people guilty. DNA testing in forensics should be accurate.
Medical field
DNA screening should be 100% accurate if done for medical purposes. If there are mistakes or errors, false positives result in seeking treatment for diseases when individuals are not predisposed. In case of a false negative, the patient fails to seek timely medical assistance. Healthcare providers base their therapy on DNA tests. Wrong results lead to complications. DNA tests should be accurate so that doctors initiate the apt treatment program.
Paternity disputes
It is a sensitive test as it involves the identification of the biological father of a child. In case of errors, the wrong individual will be the biological father. The DNA test should be accurate.