5 Benefits of Genetic Testing

While routine lab work provides a snapshot of your current health, genetic testing can offer insights into how your body is uniquely wired. From inherited health risks to how you may respond to certain medications, genetic testing is helping primary care providers like Melita Tate, MD, take a more personalized approach to prevention and wellness.

At Grassroots Healthcare in Tulsa, Oklahoma, we believe that the more information you have about your health, the more empowered you are to make proactive decisions. Read on as our team shares five potential benefits of genetic testing.

1. It can help identify inherited health risks

Many chronic conditions, including certain cancers, heart disease, and metabolic disorders, have a genetic component. For example, 5% of all colon cancers come from an inherited gene change.

Genetic testing can sometimes identify inherited risk factors before symptoms appear, allowing you and Dr. Tate to develop a more personalized prevention and screening strategy. 

For example, if you’re at risk for breast cancer or colon cancer, she may recommend an earlier mammogram or colonoscopy. 

2. It can support more personalized health care

No two people are exactly alike, and their health care shouldn't be either. Genetic information may provide additional insight into how your body functions. 

This allows Dr. Tate and her team the ability to adjust recommendations based on your unique biology, family history, lifestyle, and health goals.

3. It can help guide medication decisions

Certain genetic variations can affect how your body processes medications. Known as pharmacogenomics, this area of genetic testing can help Dr. Tate better understand which medications may be most effective or which might require closer monitoring.

For example, if you carry a variant in a gene such as CYP2D6 or CYP2C19, your body may break down some antidepressants more slowly or more quickly than expected. With genetic testing, Dr. Tate can choose medications and doses that are better aligned with your unique metabolism.

4. It can encourage a proactive approach to wellness

Genetic testing allows you to be proactive rather than reactive. For example, identifying your potential risks can motivate you to make healthy lifestyle changes, schedule preventive screenings, and participate in ongoing monitoring with Dr. Tate.

5. It can provide valuable information for your family

Because family members share genetic traits, genetic testing results may offer insights that are important to your relatives as well.

In some cases, understanding your own inherited risks can spark conversations and help encourage your family members to have more informed interactions with their health care providers about prevention and screening.

Genetic testing is just one piece of your health profile

Genetics is only one piece of your health puzzle. Your lifestyle, environment, nutrition, activity level, and medical history all help shape your overall mental and physical wellness. 

That said, genetic testing can provide valuable information that helps create a more complete picture of your health, and our Grassroots Healthcare team can help you get the testing you need. 

The process is often easier than people expect. Most genetic tests require only a saliva sample, cheek swab, or blood draw. 

The sample is analyzed in a specialized laboratory, and the results are used alongside your personal health history, family history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors to create a more personalized approach to your care.

Curious about your genetics? Call or click to schedule an appointment with our team today.