8 Key Considerations Before Choosing a DNA Testing Service

DNA testing companies have infiltrated the market recently. With people being curious about their ancestry and wanting to know more, there is a sudden peak in these companies and how people can leverage them to know more about their respective backgrounds.

As you navigate more through the top DNA testing companies, it is normal to be confused about the dos and don’ts related to the company. What kind of factors should you keep in mind when opting for a specific company’s service?

We will discuss more about the key considerations that you need to prioritize before choosing a specific DNA testing service.

What is the Purpose of DNA Testing?

Before you even settle down on a specific DNA testing company, the first thing that you have to pay close attention to is the purpose.

Why do you need DNA testing and what kind of purpose does it serve? The reason why we are suggesting you determine the purpose is because different companies offer various types of tests, including ancestry testing, health-related genetic testing, and paternity testing.

So, depending on why you want to conduct DNA testing, it becomes easier for you to ascertain which service provider to opt for.

Top Factors to Consider Before Choosing DNA Testing Services

Now that you have a clear idea about the intent behind the DNA testing, let us walk you through the key factors worth prioritizing:

1. Research about the company

Since there is a sudden spike in the number of DNA testing companies in the market, it isn’t surprising that the first step is to research the company. You must understand the company’s services, its reputation, and the kind of security and privacy it assures.

While researching, look at the company’s track record in accuracy, privacy, and data security without fail. Since these testing kits don’t come for cheap, the last thing that you want to do is end up wasting your money on a DNA testing company that doesn’t live up to the expectations you have put on them.

2. Privacy and data security

You might not realize this but there are several factors associated with your DNA and the overall genetics. If the DNA testing company has a reputation for not offering optimal privacy with the data, that’s the first red flag and you need to ditch the idea and move on to a better alternative.

When checking the privacy, you have to cross-check that the company has strict privacy policies in place and a clear stance on how they handle and protect your genetic data. These are the kinds of companies where you have to re-read the terms and conditions very diligently. You can’t skip through them and end up jeopardizing how your data will be used, stored, and shared.

3. Consent and control over the data

While we are on the topic of privacy policies, another factor that’s worth paying attention to is the way your data will be used. Some companies may share anonymized data for research purposes unless you explicitly opt-out. If that’s something that you don’t want, you’d have to select a DNA testing company that guarantees that.

Also, when you are researching individual companies and their services, you should be able to figure out the different available options for controlling the use of your data and make informed choices based on your preferences.

4. Testing accuracy and validation

When you are paying a good chunk of money for DNA testing, it goes without saying that you are looking for apt and accurate results with minor discrepancies. In such cases, assessing the accuracy and reliability of the DNA testing service is another factor that you have to keep in mind.

The best way to ascertain their testing accuracy is by checking the kind of testing technology they are using. You can also check the methodology and the staff qualifications and expertise that are responsible for handling the test samples that you send. These factors should give you an idea about how accurate the results would be and whether or not you can rely on them.

5. The range of genetic markers tested

Different DNA testing services examine varying numbers and types of genetic markers. If you want better accuracy in the results, you’d want to opt for the DNA testing companies that check the samples against an extensive range of genetic markers. Doing so provides a more detailed outlook on the situation.

Also, when you are cross-checking the individual genetic markers, you have to understand the significance of the markers that are tested and then choose the service that aligns with your requirements at that moment.

6. Health-related genetic testing

Now, we know that DNA testing has become very “trendy” and “mainstream.” However, for several individuals, the need for genetic testing is to understand the cause behind their chronic diseases or the sudden bout of symptoms they have been experiencing.

When it comes to health-related genetic testing, there are specific companies that are targeted toward providing such services. Instead of relying on random DNA testing companies that only check ancestry, etc., opt for a more well-rounded company that will offer insights into genetic predispositions for certain health conditions.

7. Cost and additional fees

DNA testing, irrespective of the intent, isn’t cheap. Even the trending DNA ancestry kits that most people are using and talking about on the internet come for a pretty hefty price point. So, when you are considering getting one, paying attention to the overall costs and the additional fees is vital.

If required, we’d suggest that you compare the prices online and see which company is offering you the best deal among the lots. There are a few service providers that offer subscription-based models too, which you can check out.

8. Customer support

The last factor to consider when choosing a DNA testing service provider is their customer support. How prompt are they in providing resolutions to your queries? Do they offer an extensive range of resources to clarify the issues that you might have been experiencing?

A reputable company should offer clear guidance on understanding your results, and customer support should be readily available to address any concerns or questions you may have.

Conclusion

Finding the best DNA testing company among so many options can be a little challenging. However, if you make a checklist with the pointers we have mentioned, there’s nothing that should prevent you from choosing the absolute best company from the lot. At the end of the day, you want accurate results, optimal data privacy, and ongoing support.