Wednesday, October 05, 2011

Gene Test

We last discussed genetic testing this past summer, reporting on a new protocol that could seriously help with better diagnostics and (ultimately) outcomes. Thanks to FoIB Holly R, we learn about a new test that can help determine whether or not one is a "carrier" of a genetic disease.

Best of all, it requires only a saliva sample, and can be mailed to the lab (unfortunately, there's no "app for that," at least not yet):

"Carriers can be identified for ... genetic diseases by using a very new saliva test that is easier to administer and is less expensive. Out of pocket expenses are not more than $350.00 per person, and often less"

The old blood-draw method could cost north of $4000, so this represents a real savings, and may in fact help save lives.
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