CONTRIBUTION OF GENETIC TESTING IN EARLY CANCER PREVENTION

With the technological advancement in the healthcare sector, genetic testing has proved to be a boon in presuming genetic risks or propensities for various health conditions through an individual’s DNA that helps to reduce curative costs of non-communicable diseases like Cancer and hence, personalise health of an individual.

Early detection of cancer is the only ultimate to ensure early cancer prevention as it becomes difficult to treat when it’s discovered too late.

Through Genetic tests, an array of genetic information is uncovered via DNA i.e. the blueprint of life which differentiates each individual from one another. It ranges from knowing one’s ethnic roots and family tree which makes them prone to developing various complex health conditions.

There is a possibility to derive Information such as nutrition, fitness, skincare, habits, and even food preferences based on their genetic makeup via some of such tests which will assist an individual in personalizing everything on the basis of their suitability.

If one chooses a D2C genetic test, they receive a detailed report based on their DNA that lets them understand their genetic makeup, and personalize their lifestyle through changes in diet and fitness plan. They also gain this privilege to delay or prevent the onset of diseases by observing relevant symptoms, followed by a healthy lifestyle and planned regular health check-ups.

There are various kinds of genetic tests present in the market, these range from tests that aid in the diagnosis of a specific medical condition to predictive tests through which the analysis of an individual’s genome at various positions is done which lets them understand their vulnerability to different complex and multifactorial health conditions.

The highly advanced technological and analytical genetic test still involves a simple process for the user i.e. mostly achieved via saliva and blood samples. By the report having the genetic predispositions for various diseases, and traits in an individual, the genetic counsellor recommends lifestyle changes considering the genetic test report, and medical and family history.

About 5 to 10% of cancer cases are hereditary in nature. A person is significantly more likely to develop cancer if either of their parents carries a genetic variant linked to specific cancer or a range of cancers. In some cases, cancers like breast, ovarian, colorectal, prostate, and endometrial run in families.

It is crucial to understand that the majority of cancers are caused by exposure to carcinogens and radiation, living a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and having unhealthy eating habits. As a result, through correct and timely intervention, significant cancer cases can be escaped. Hereditary cancer panel testing is a particular clinical genetic test that should be chosen by people who have a hereditary cancer risk in their family.

The prevention cycle is completed by genetic testing. If one is predisposed to a disease genetically, then, by modifying their diet, exercise routine, and lifestyle based on their genetic makeup, one can stop or delay the disease's onset. The genetic counsellor also assists in personalising the necessary health check-ups and their timing in accordance with need, streamlining the surveillance and screening strategies.