What Every Parent Should Know Before Having Their Kid (Or Themselves) Take a Genetic Test with Dr. Erika Gray
Feb 4, 2025
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Dr. Erika Gray, founder and chief medical officer of Toolbox Genomics, shares her expertise on genetic testing and health optimization. She highlights privacy concerns, especially after recent security breaches, and explains how genetic tests are de-identified for safety. Dr. Gray emphasizes that while genetics can indicate risks, it’s primarily a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. She also discusses the significance of choline in diet, particularly for attention and focus, and stresses the importance of professional guidance for interpreting genetic data.
Privacy is a critical concern in genetic testing, as de-identified samples can still be vulnerable to data breaches, so using aliases is advisable.
Genetic testing serves as a screening tool and not a diagnostic tool, offering insights into health but emphasizing the importance of lifestyle factors in gene expression.
Deep dives
Understanding Cellular Aging and Skincare
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Genetic Testing Privacy Concerns
Privacy is a significant concern when it comes to genetic testing, especially for parents contemplating tests for their children. All DNA samples are de-identified using barcodes, but breaches can lead to potential exposure of genetic information. It is crucial to understand what the testing company does with your data, such as whether it is used for research or shared with third parties. To safeguard privacy, individuals can use aliases when submitting tests, keeping in mind to still provide accurate birthdates for epigenetic tests.
Capabilities and Limitations of Genetic Testing
Genetic testing can provide valuable insights into various health and wellness factors but has limitations and is not a diagnostic tool. Testing for conditions such as cancer should be approached with caution, using diagnostic tests rather than general screenings like those from 23andMe. While genetic tests can inform individuals about medication metabolism and predisposition to certain conditions, lifestyle choices and environmental factors play a crucial role in gene expression. Therefore, understanding that genetics is not deterministic encourages individuals to take actionable steps towards healthier living.
Empowerment Through Genetic Understanding
The approach to genetic testing should be guided by personal motivations and questions each individual hopes to answer. Group coaching sessions aim to help individuals decode their genetic reports, with a focus on applying this knowledge to enhance their wellbeing. Participants are encouraged to identify goals, understand genetic implications, and discover personalized strategies that can improve their health. This educational process helps demystify genetic data, turning what could be overwhelming information into actionable insights for positive change.