The issue of genetic testing is a highly controversial one, as its advantages and disadvantages present various dilemmas. It is still not clear if genetic testing should or should not become a common procedure that all people undergo regularly. I believe that it is an extremely personal decision to make. There are certain limitations and concerns that a diagnosed person can face, especially when they are diagnosed with untreatable and lethal disorders (Norrgard, 2008). Knowing about conditions like that may significantly decrease the quality of life and even lead to depression and anxiety.
At the same time, I acknowledge all the benefits that genetic testing can bring in terms of diagnosing a wide range of diseases and conditions. Fearing that they might discover hereditary predispositions to some untreatable diseases, many people choose not to get tested. However, I believe that deep inside, they still think about it and have concerns; I would if my family had a history of genetic conditions. That is why some people may even feel relieved when they undergo testing and have to face difficult results. At least they can know for sure that they are predisposed to certain conditions and focus on ways to improve their lives (Kurian et al., 2019). After all, genes are believed to be malleable; a positive approach, holistic nutritional program, and avoiding environmental toxins will not harm any person whose genetic testing results show a predisposition to certain diseases.
In the end, I do not think there is a universal answer to this question. Each person’s choice has to be authentic because they are the ones who will have to live their lives with this knowledge. I do believe, though, that scientific and health communities might focus more on raising awareness about genome sequencing, with particular reference to conditions that can be caught in the early stages, such as different types of cancer.
References
Kurian, A. W., Ward, K. C., Howlader, N., Deapen, D., Hamilton, A. S., Mariotto, A., Miller, D., Penberthy, L. S., & Katz, S. J. (2019). Genetic testing and results in a population-based cohort of breast cancer patients and ovarian cancer patients. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 37(15), 1305-1315.
Norrgard, K. (2008). Genetic testing and family planning | Learn science at Scitable. Scitable.