This blog was originally posted byAvrio Geneticsand is shared with permission.
It’s natural for humans to want answers regarding where they came from and what the future holds for them. Since DNA test kits can help chip away at these questions, it’s not surprising that their popularity has skyrocketed over the past ten years. According to MIT Technology Review, by January 2019, over 26 million people had been tested by consumer genetics companies. Some brands—such as AncestryDNA and 23andMe—lead the DNA test kit market, but are they a good fit for you? How do you choose the right DNA test kit?
DNA test kits can provide insight into your genetic ancestry, your genetic health, or a combination of the two. The testing process is simple: you collect your DNA via a cheek swab or saliva sample, package it up, mail it back to the company, and six to eight weeks later, you have your results. These tests vary between companies, so you should explore your options before determining the right test for you.
Goals and expectations
It’s important to first ask yourself what your goal is. What kind of information you would like to receive? Are you hoping to find a long-lost parent or sibling? Are you curious about where your ancestors came from? Do you want to know your genetic predisposition for certain diseases? What about your tolerance for certain foods? Explore your reasoning for pursing a DNA test. On the flip side, however, DNA test kits can reveal some dark secrets in your family history, so you should also consider if there is any information that you don’t want to find out about. Walking through first step of goal setting can help narrow down your options.
Budget
Next, what is your budget? DNA test kit prices vary widely by company and can be as little as $50 or as much as $300. The more expensive tests typically package ancestry and health data, while cheaper kits analyze your ancestry alone.
Level of detail
Another consideration is determining the level of detail that you would like to receive. Companies have access to different DNA databases, meaning some can provide a higher level of detail than others. A few companies—such as AncestryDNA— have partnerships that provide access to additional databases that provide even more accurate results.
Security
Over the years, people have voiced concerns about the safety of their genetic information once it is sent off to get tested, so you may want to look into the fine print. Some companies let you choose the information you want to know and what you want to share or keep private. Other companies conduct their DNA testing and storage in-house, promising to never let your genetic information fall into a third party’s hands. A few companies will use your information for research and may comply with requests from law enforcement, while some also give you the option to opt out. You should also look to see if your data will be encrypted so you know it’s protected and safe.
Accuracy
Since the industry has exploded, so have companies that offer subpar services. Avoid companies that offer farfetched predictions—like the type of sport you would be best at—or don’t follow typical testing protocols. Online reviews can help you determine the reliability of the organization.
When reviewing your options, don’t just immediately settle for the most popular brand. Instead, experts recommend that you do your research first to ensure the test you purchase is accurate, reliable, and meets your expectations. DNA test kits can provide a wealth of information—everything from your ancestry composition to your carrier status—but not all test kits are created equal. Walking through the aforementioned steps can help you find the right test and get the answers you’re looking for.
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