Genetic tests are revolutionizing the world of prenatal screening and more. A new genetic test allows identification of the inherited genetic mutations that increase the risk of colon cancer. The new technology is also able to find abnormalities that the earlier ones were missing. The "next generation sequencing" could then identify many more individuals predisposed to colon cancer. More weapon in the fight against cancer, which would allow those at risk to take precautions.

When you have a case of colon cancer in the family, it will appeal to a geneticist to assess the risk of familiarity. According to the history of the family, the number of cancer cases, the age of diagnosis, the specialist recommended a genetic test. In this way the test will reveal if you have genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing cancer.

The classic genetic test is the Sanger sequencing, which allows you to read the sequence of a specific gene. It is a very accurate method, but also expensive and challenging. That's why is giving way to the so-called "next generation sequencing", with which you can examine multiple genes at a time. The new method allows to reduce costs, to cut the time and give a much earlier response. He also revealed genetic abnormalities linked to colon cancer that Sanger sequencing was unable to locate.

Before proceeding with a DNA test, you should consult a specialist. He will direct the person to the path of better screening and also curb unjustified anxiety. However, the value of these new technologies is no doubt. The next-generation sequencing is changing both the fight against cancer is prenatal screening.

Source: health.clevelandclinic.org