6 genetic tests every woman should do

In the medical industry, it is common for most doctors to come across patients who believe in the adage of "let the bridge come, I will cross it!"

A patient, for instance, may not even seek a diagnosis such as an X-Ray unless he or she feels some sort of discomfort or has had a bad fall. The adage of waiting for that proverbial bridge holds true with patients waiting for everything – like even nursing a fever which refuses to subside for more than four days.

But, there are at least a dozen odd ailments where it is better to know more about that bridge. This bridge is nothing but an understanding of your own body chemistry - in simple words, your genetic make-up.

Knowledge about your own genetic make-up can be quite fascinating. Genetic understanding can reveal quite a lot about your metabolism, sleep pattern, and even nutritional levels. But there's a lot more information - how susceptible or prone you are to risk-factors such as hypertension, cancer, and even inherited disorders such as sickle cell anaemia or cystic fibrosis.

Having this information is important specifically to women. In addition to career and personal activities, the fairer gender often takes up other responsibilities related to the family. Being a woman is all about performing a balancing act. And while doing this, women are more likely to skip taking that early intervention or preventive care.

These days, thankfully, be it the diagnosis of a thyroid issue or that of breast cancer, genetic wellness tests can help identify multiple risks. Genetic wellness tests are like having insurance, but the best part is the premium gets paid mostly once in life. There are six genetic wellness tests that every woman should be encouraged to have as early as possible.

Breast Cancer MutationThis test identifies genetic mutations linked to breast and ovarian cancer. Breast cancer is hereditary (US-CDC estimates nearly 10% of breast cancers as hereditary). Also, women belonging to certain ethnicities may be at a higher risk. Cost for having a BRCA (BReast CAncer gene) 1 or 2 testing may range anywhere from Rs 12,000 to 25,000, but a preventive approach is better compared to a costly surgery at a later stage.

Reproductive Carrier ScreeningAhead of family planning or marriage, carrier screening tests can help diagnose several genetic parameters – thalassemia (less haemoglobin), or even sickle cell anaemia. Carrier screening explains parameters and forecasts the likelihood of cystic fibrosis.

Cardiovascular AilmentsWhile women live longer than men, the American Heart association finds that women are more likely than men to develop cardiovascular ailments. Genetic testing gives precise data to health practitioners and to the patient about inherited risks – hypercholesterolemia (unusually high fat in blood), UFS1 (Upstream stimulatory factor for glucose and lipid metabolism, Coagulation cascade, TIMP3 (genes responsible for arterial walls). Understanding these can help understand what one ought to do for a healthy heart.




Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)According to the World Health Organisation, 13% of women are affected by PCOS. Symptoms of PCOS can range from weight gain, acne, baldness, diabetes, and even infertility. Genetic tests can detect and explain the genetic markers with a patient and help take informed preventive steps to avoid the risks.

Pharmacogenomics TestingThis relatively new frontier examines how your genetic makeup affects your response to medications. Women, especially those managing chronic conditions, can benefit from personalized prescriptions that minimize side effects and maximize efficiency.

Bone Health Genetic TestingOsteoporosis, often called the “silent disease,” disproportionately affects women post-menopause. Genetic testing identifies susceptibility, enabling early preventive measures such as dietary changes, supplements, or tailored exercise regimens.

Most of these tests are painless and a patient may have to share saliva, hair or blood samples, but the extent of information that the test-results presents is of immense value. From hereditary cancers to chronic conditions to nutritional or metabolic disorders, genetic testing empowers anyone and everyone to take control of their well-being. And that in a scientific manner.

(By Subodh Gupta, CEO, Lord's Mark Microbiotech)