Genetic testing can help doctors look for changes in Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that may cause disease or disorders in an individual. Doctors can use this information to inform them about diseases or disorders to treat the underlying conditions.

Genetic testing can also help families prepare themselves for future risks of certain ailments. They can learn how well certain pharmaceuticals will work in their bodies and plan family lines to ensure bloodlines carry the right genes that won't pass down a slew of health issues because they could run out of room on their family tree.

A doctor might recommend genetic testing to analyze genetic material for changes linked to inherited gene defects that can cause disease. Suppose a genetic condition has already been confirmed. In that case, prenatal testing of an unborn baby (prenatal diagnosis or prenatal screening) may be done to check for symptoms of the identified syndrome in the developing child.

Genetic tests are also used to rule out chromosomal abnormalities and single genes. These things can be detected through molecular and cytogenetic techniques. Parents also use the test to understand why the disorders occur and how they can be managed early.

Some conditions or symptoms that may be linked to a genetic disorder include:

• Vision or hearing impairment
• Seizures
• Heart rhythm issues
• Developmental delays in speech, motor, or cognitive function
• Intellectual disabilities
• Cancer
• Immune disorders
• Hormonal abnormalities
• Poor growth
• Movement disorders
• Chromosomal abnormalities
• Dysmorphic features

The global pediatric genetic testing market was valued at $2,782.8 million in 2019, and it is expected to grow at an impressive double-digit rate of 14.30% and reach a value of 12,063.2 million in 2030.

HOW GENETIC TESTING WORKS?

Genetic testing is a microscopic examination of the material within the genetic coding of an organism or specimen. Blood tests are most common, but many other fluids and tissues may be used in genetic testing for specific conditions. New technologies have made gene analyzing quicker, more efficient, and several insurance companies also cover genetic testing for children.

There are more than 7,000 unique genetic disorders that can be inherited. Sometimes certain symptoms of one disorder can mimic the symptoms of another disorder, thus leading to misdiagnosis. This is why it's crucial to understand numerous different disorders to make an accurate diagnosis.

Finding a specific gene mutation can be like finding a needle in the gene haystack. However, the correct diagnosis can lead to better treatment and targeted therapy.

The global pediatric genetic testing market is mainly driven by multiple factors, including rising government initiatives coupled with the growing general awareness about genetic conditions in the population.

Additionally, the increasing number of advancements in molecular diagnostic procedures linked to pediatrics fuel the global pediatric genetic testing market.

GENETIC COUNSELLING

Consulting with experts is essential when it comes to the decision of taking genetic tests and analyzing their results. One must talk to the doctor, medical geneticist, or genetic counselor about any questions or concerns regarding the genetic testing and its results. This will help understand the results for the person and his family.