How can genetic testing help prevent genetic disorders?
Genetic testing before or during pregnancy can help prevent genetic disorders by identifying risk factors before symptoms appear. It allows individuals and couples to make informed reproductive choices, such as undergoing carrier testing to assess the risk of passing on disorders to their children. For couples using IVF, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can ensure only embryos without genetic abnormalities are implanted. Moreover, knowing one’s genetic risk can guide lifestyle and healthcare decisions to manage or mitigate potential health issues related to genetic predispositions.