A mutation in a person's DNA can cause a disruption in normal function. In some cases, the DNA mutation may not result in any symptoms until the patient has reached adulthood. According to the National Institutes of Health, "genetic tests are...
Few things are more devastating than finding out your new baby has a genetic disease. DNA testing has become more popular prior to pregnancy since testing is more available and affordable. The decision to test isn't always an easy one, since it...
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, also aiding in growth and strengthening of your bones. Food sources of vitamin D include tuna, salmon and foods fortified with vitamin D such as cereals and milk. Exposure to direct sunlight provides...
Tay-Sachs Disease (TSD) is a genetic degenerative disease that affects the nervous system. It mostly affects Ashkenazi Jews of East European descent; however, in rare occasions, it affects those other than the Ashkenazi Jews. TSD happens in...
The National Human Genome Research Institute reports that newborn screenings are the most widespread type of genetic testing. All states are required to screen for at least 21 disorders, but some states test for even more. The positive side to...
Some genetic diseases, especially sickle cell anemia, occur at a higher frequency in African Americans when compared to other populations. Genetic testing for these disorders is available so that couples can receive testing before they decide to...
The inherited blood disorder thalassemia can range in severity from mild to severe. Mild cases, usually caused by a single defect inherited from only one parent that affects one of the genes controlling the production of alpha or beta globulin,...
The bacteria group B streptococcus (GBS) naturally exists within your body. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "It may be found in the digestive, urinary, and reproductive tracts of men and women. In women, it...
Hip carriers are a great way to manage a toddler. Parents may find that a newly walking toddler is either at risk of hurting himself or making messes when allowed to roam about in public places. Holding your toddler in your arms while trying to...
MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a type of staph that is generally resistant to antibiotics, making it difficult to treat. Someone can die from complications resulting from MRSA. Testing for the infection is...
The Mayo Clinic lists massage and aromatherapy as two alternative therapies that can help to ease the pain and stress of cancer treatments. You can find them together in settings as diverse as hospitals and day spas. Clinical research studies are...
According to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, the first trimester of pregnancy consists of the 13 weeks after your last menstrual period. Typically, your first prenatal visit will occur between the 8th and 10th week of pregnancy to start your...
The term Sephardic describes people of Jewish descent whose ancestors came from Spain, Portugal, North Africa and some regions of the Mediterranean, according to a 2009 article written by Talia Bloch for Haaretz.com, but the term is often used to...
While there is no true way to prevent hemochromatosis, a step that you can take to dramatically reduce the risk of developing excess iron in the blood is receiving a genetic screening. Hemochromatosis is an inherited disease, although it is...
Most diseases result from a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental exposure. The occurrence of “genetic” diseases depends more on the exact coding of DNA with little to no influence from the environment. In genetic...
Health insurance carriers, doctors and clinics commonly test to identify nicotine in the body. Testing does not show actual nicotine levels; rather, the three tests available identify the component of cotinine in the body, a byproduct of tobacco...
According to MayoClinic.com, freckles are small, flat pigmented spots on the skin that often appear red, tan or brown in color, and they occur on areas of the skin exposed to the sun over time. While freckles are natural, some people that have...
An underwritten life insurance policy is a plan designed specifically for you. It uses the medical history of both you and your family to determine your premium rates. Although you can take out a life insurance policy that does not require medical...
The thyroid gland, located in the anterior portion of your neck, produces hormones that determine your metabolic rate or the speed at which your body functions. A variety of lab tests are available to determine thyroid function, each measuring...
In order to move through your bloodstream, cholesterol, fat and some proteins need certain carriers called lipoproteins. Cholesterol tests often measure the amount of specific lipoproteins in the blood, and this measurement indirectly reveals the...
Cough is the body's response to the presence of irritants in the lungs. When your child gets something in his lungs, he needs to cough to rid his body of the substance. If you have given him an over-the-counter cough medication with no relief, he...
Part of the aging process includes a certain amount of bone loss. This loss is determined by both lifestyle and genetics. Everyone over 60 years of age should be tested for osteopenia, which is an indicator of the beginning stages of the...
Iron is an important mineral needed by the human body to carry oxygen as part of hemoglobin in the blood and myoglobin in the muscle. It is essential for proper immune function, temperature regulation, energy metabolism and cognitive development....
Typhoid fever is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhi. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, estimates a worldwide incidence of 22 million cases and 200,000 deaths annually. It occurs less commonly in the...
Adrenoleukodystrophy, or ALD disorder, is an inherited disease that affects the nerve pathways. According to The Adrenoleukodystrophy Foundation, 1 in 17,900 boys in the world are affected by the disorder. ALD occurs in adult men but with less...
Triglycerides and blood sugar provide energy and serve other functions in the body. Triglycerides are a form of fat, or lipid. Blood sugar is predominantly in the form of glucose. These chemicals are needed for health and proper cell functioning,...
If you conceal blemishes or aging skin with makeup, then your body may reward you with clogged pores. Beauty tips for smooth skin should contribute to your health as well as to your appearance. Consult with a physician or another reliable resource...
Strep throat is an infection of the throat or pharynx caused by bacteria called group A streptococcus. According to MayoClinic.com, if strep throat is left untreated, it can lead to complications, such as rheumatic fever, which causes kidney,...
