DNA testing is used for a multitude of things in the world, including determining paternity or blood relation, some genetic issues, and for investigation purposes. It used to mean going to a doctor’s clinic because DNA testing was only available in special clinics or medical facilities, but now, with the advent of a home kit DNA test, that has changed. Now you can take the DNA test home and send your samples to the laboratory for evaluation. DNA testing at home is simple, convenient and cost-effective.
The testing company provides a simple DNA testing kit containing everything you need to collect the DNA samples. A buccal swab and a blood test are the common options for those taking a DNA test. The buccal swab kit will contain a swab for collecting the samples, instructions on how to use it and a pre-paid return envelope to send the sample back to the laboratory. On the other hand, the blood test involves pricking the finger for blood and using a small card to collect the sample. The DNA testing kit costs generally range from $99 to a couple of hundred dollars, depending on the variety of tests you need. So it is a three-step process:
- Get a sample of your DNA.
- Send your samples to the laboratory for evaluation.
- Get your results in a couple of days.
How does a home kit DNA test help you?
DNA test kits work in different ways to provide valuable information about your health, family history, paternity/ maternity, and other things you might be unsure about. The DNA tests help analyse the number of chromosomes and autosomes in an individual’s genetic makeup and are widely used to highlight common genetic disorders and traits. Further, you can use DNA test samples to analyse the different potential ethnicities. You get a map and charts from the samples that help you track the information and pinpoint your maternal lineage. The most common reason people use home-based DNA test kits is that it allows them to assess their risk for developing certain hereditary diseases. Moreover, these tests help you understand more about the connections and divergence in your family tree.
How to choose a suitable home kit for a DNA test?
If you are thinking about buying a home-based DNA test kit, you need to consider the following factors:
- Type of test: DNA tests are performed for various purposes, so the kits vary depending on the goal. There are three main types of DNA tests: Y-DNA test, mitochondrial DNA test, and autosomal DNA test. While the Y-DNA test is widely used to trace the paternity or father’s lineage, mitochondrial DNA (also called the mDNA test) is used for tracing maternal lineage or maternity. The autosomal test is considered the most information-rich test as it can help you trace your father’s and mother’s lineage. Hence, choose the DNA test depending on the information you need.
- Privacy and precision: The next important thing you must consider when choosing the DNA test kit is “privacy.” In fact, privacy has to be the primary concern of individuals opting for DNA testing. So make sure you buy a home kit DNA test from an authorised laboratory to get precise and accurate results. This will help you rest assured that your information is kept confidential, and nobody can claim its authenticity. Also, don’t forget to go through the terms and conditions before making your purchase.
- Cost: Different laboratories and home-based test kit companies provide DNA test kits in different price ranges. Some kits may require you to perform a few more or fewer steps, but the results will remain approximately the same. You will gain the same insights for the type of test you choose. That means you can choose the one that fits your pocket.
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