What is a DNA Test?

Every person on the planet – with the exception of identical twins – has totally unique DNA. DNA is the genetic code that makes all of us who we are. It influences everything from our hair and eye color to our susceptibility to certain diseases. Often DNA tests are performed at hospitals for screening newborns and for diagnostic testing. DNA testing is also regularly used in the legal system to determine relationship status and paternity. What is a DNA test, and how does it work?

Medical Uses of DNA Testing

Just twenty years ago, the extent to which DNA testing is used in the medical community was not possible. At that time, the human genome had not yet been sequenced, and we simply didn’t have the technology necessary that would make DNA testing possible. But since then, the scope and applications of DNA testing have exploded. Now, because we have sequenced the human genome and developed highly accurate molecular biology technology to perform DNA testing, we can use it for many different applications.

DNA testing is used in hospitals as soon as a newborn enters the world. Newborns are routinely given DNA tests to find genetic disorders that doctors can treat before they become problematic. Doctors will also use DNA tests to find out if a patient with a particular set of symptoms has a genetic medical condition. And doctors can even use DNA testing to find out how certain pharmaceutical drugs affect people’s genetics.

Legal Applications of DNA Testing

DNA tests have become fairly common in the courtroom as well. Genetic tests become a centerpiece of modern forensic science, and are used to determine guilt or innocence of defendants. But they are far more common in civil court proceedings where a blood relationship needs to be proved or disproved.

One of the most common DNA tests used in courtrooms is a paternity test. Paternity tests can determine with more than 99% accuracy whether a man is the father of a child. This kind of test is used in court proceedings on child custody and child support, death benefits and social benefits. DNA tests are also frequently used in immigration proceedings to determine whether a new immigrant is in fact related to their sponsor when no other documentation is available.

DNA Test Procedure

The DNA test is a very straightforward procedure. It may or may not require a blood draw, depending on what the DNA test will be used for. DNA tests that are performed for personal reasons can even be done in the privacy of your own home using a mouth swab. DNA tests are not very expensive, and results can be obtained from pregnant women, incarcerated individuals and even deceased persons.

If you need a DNA test, contact us today to schedule an appointment with the top DNA testing center in NYC.