1. There are several diseases that can be detected using various types of genetic testing. A condition commonly known to be due to a genetic chromosome variation is Downs syndrome. The chromosomal type of genetic testing can be used to discover the extra copy of chromosome 21 that is responsible for Downs (1). Another type of genetic testing called fluorescent in situ hybridization, or FISH, tests for the slight changes on chromosome 22 that contribute to velocardiofacial syndrome, a syndrome sometimes responsible for cleft palate (1). Since DNA is the source material for protein creation, testing for protein presence or the lack of proteins is also a viable option to give genetic results (1). A classic example of this is the newborn screening …show more content…
David Euhus’ 2014 article raises significant questions about the usefulness of genetic testing and provides an important counterpoint to Angelina Jolie’s op-ed piece. Euhus discusses how the general public, and even the average medical provider, cannot accurately interpret genetic information provided through current genetic testing alone (5). Euhus contends the variation within the genome, plus the additional variables introduced by environment allow too much room for inaccurate interpretation of genetic testing results (5). Jolie made the decision to undergo preventive removal of her breasts in an effort to reduce her risk of breast cancer (6). In light of Euhus’ doubts about the interpretation of genetic data, it seems Jolie’s decision might have been excessive. The percentages Jolie speaks about in her writing cannot be determined accurately if Euhus’ opinion is correct. Even with the doubts Euhus raises, I would be willing to undergo genetic testing and may even potentially take preventive action based on the results. My family has a strong history of various cancers and I believe if you have the means and the will, this type of medical decision is yours to make, even if someone else might deem it