Some things in life should remain a mystery. When we are going to have your first kiss, or when you’ll meet the love of your life, or when you get a big job promotion—those are moments in life where they are best enjoyed if they are surrounded by surprise. But there are some things where it’s best to be as informed and as prepared as possible.
For us, there are few aspects of living that are as vital to be as knowledgeable as possible when it comes to personal health. You have to know what you are putting into your body and how it can impact your quality of life. Not only that, but it’s just as crucial to understand how your family history and your genetic makeup, the very core of who you are, can influence our personal longevity.
This is why many people chose to dive into their genetic makeup in a detailed manner. This is what’s known as genetic testing. Just as the term indicates, genetic testing, according to genome.gov, uses laboratory methods to look at your genes to identify increased risks of health problems, to choose treatments, and to assess responses to treatments. Types of genetic testing include diagnostic testing, predictive and presymptomatic testing, carrier testing, newborn screening, and pharmacogenomics testing; all of these methods can help a person determine the best treatment for current symptoms or can help someone be proactive about treating potential systems down the line.
If the thought of pursuing genetic testing in the near future interests you, we at Justin McCarthy, M.D. recommend giving color testing a try. These tests in particular focus on genes associated with an increased risk for common hereditary cancers and high risk cholesterol—these disorders in particular where early knowledge and action can make a world of difference in fighting the disease. All you have to do is send in your sample, get your results, and speak with a counselor to create a personalized health plan for you.
Some surprises in life are a good thing, even a blessing. But your genetic makeup should not be one of them. Being adequately prepared on the health challenges and risks you may be facing will appropriately arm you for the battle ahead. No one understands this philosophy better than your friends and experts at the offices of Dr. Justin McCarthy. To schedule your upcoming appointment or to learn more about the importance of genetic testing, call 806-761-0722 or visit us in person at 2424 50th Street Suite 100 in the heart of Lubbock.
