Ob-gynecologists back genetic blood test for at-risk women

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) – New, non-invasive tests for chromosomal disorders should be reserved for pregnant women with a higher-than-average risk of having a baby with Down syndrome, doctors said this week. The screening tests, which find small amounts of DNA from the fetus in the blood of pregnant women, can help diagnose a few genetic disorders starting late in the first trimester. Women at higher risk include those who are 35 and older, have a family history of genetic disorders or have abnormalities spotted on their ultrasounds. …

Who’s your daddy? DNA clinic gives answers, sparks concerns

Jared Rosenthal, president of Health Street, poses with his DNA testing van in New YorkNEW YORK (Reuters) – A mobile DNA testing facility that looks more like a motor home than a medical clinic is raising questions about the ramifications of quick and easy tests to determine paternity and other biological connections. Once a time-consuming and complicated process, DNA testing has become so accessible that experts worry families and individuals may not be properly prepared for the results. A 28-foot (8. …

Could Gene Doping Be Part of Future Olympics?

THURSDAY, July 26 (HealthDay News) — Despite all the training, sweat, dedication and sacrifice that goes into becoming an Olympic competitor, these elite athletes also tend to have an advantage that average sports lovers lack: superior DNA. Just like eye color or a keen intellect, a constellation of the “right” genes can grace certain athletes with world-class speed, strength and endurance.

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