HealthInfo Aoraki-South Canterbury
Genetic testing
Children inherit many things from their parents – things like the colour of their hair, eyes, and skin, their body shape, and other physical characteristics. They inherit these things through their genes, which carry all the biological information that makes every person unique.
Sometimes people inherit certain conditions, or an increased risk of developing those conditions, from their parents. We can test for some of these conditions, and this is known as genetic testing.
There are many reasons why people are referred to a genetic clinic. It may be to:
- diagnose a condition
- confirm or explain a diagnosis
- discuss tests for a genetic condition
- discuss the implications of a family history of cancer or a genetic condition
- explain the results of a genetic test.
You can find more information about genetic testing on the Australian Centre for Genetics Education's pages understanding genetic testing and genetic counselling.
Online genetic testing
Websites offering genetic testing directly to the public are becoming increasingly common. But the tests they offer are often not subject to proper clinical regulation and scrutiny, so the results they give may be misleading, unclear or inaccurate. They can also be harmful, prompting some patients to pay for unnecessary medical treatment, or falsely reassuring other patients.
Local geneticists don't recommend this type of testing. Instead, talk to your GP about whether it would be appropriate to refer you to genetic services.
In the South Island, all genetic referrals go to Genetic Health Service New Zealand's South Island hub, which is based in Christchurch. You can find out more information about Genetic Health Service New Zealand on its website.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Genetic Health Service New Zealand
Explains what genetic services are available in New Zealand and gives information for patients.
- New Zealand Organisation for Rare Disorders
Information for people who have been diagnosed with rare disorders, which may or may not be genetic, and their families.
- Health Centre for Genetics Education
An Australian website which has helpful information about genetics and various genetic conditions, such as family cancers, cystic fibrosis, and fragile X syndrome
- Patient.info – Genetic testing
Information about DNA, genes and chromosomes, and genetic testing
See also:
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by clinical leader, Genetic Health Service New Zealand – South Island Hub. Last reviewed April 2018.
SourcesReview key: HIGET-89206
