Sharing Your Genetic Test with Your Family

If you are thinking about getting a genetic test, it may just as beneficial to you as it is to your family. The knowledge of being susceptible to a particular disease can help other blood relatives take precautions in relation to the disease as well.

It’s important to know that just because you have the genetic marker for a disease, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will get it. However, if you don’t get it, it also doesn’t mean that your blood relative won’t either. This is why, even though it’s beneficial to share the results of your genetic test with your family, it’s also important for them to get their own genetic test.

How to Talk to Your Family about Your Genetic Test

If someone in your family is suffering from a particular disease or has recently died from it, it’s a good time to approach family members with information about the disease and your genetic testing results. Simply share your concern you have for yourself and encourage them to also get a genetic test.

Many people think that it won’t ever happen to them, and the truth is that if a family member has a disease, they are at a much higher risk of developing it as well. This risk can be reduced in some diseases, however, with some precautions, which is why it’s important to know.

After sharing your genetic testing results with your family, you can then receive and give support to them. You can all discuss ways you can all deal with this knowledge and encourage them to make lifestyle changes or seek medical care.

(Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/calliope/151152685/)

August 5th, 2009 by Marcelina Hardy | Posted in Genetics and Health | (0)