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Genetics

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Late-Onset Diseases

This type of testing is done to determine whether you have a greater chance of having diseases that show up later in life (late-onset diseases). If you have a relative who has the disease, information from these tests can help you make decisions about preventing or slowing the progress of the disease.

Genetic testing is used to identify the risk of late-onset diseases such as:

Breast cancer and ovarian cancer (BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 testing).
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which causes abnormal growths inside the colon and increases your risk of colorectal cancer.
Huntington's disease, a rare disease that causes premature, severe deterioration of the brain.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 03, 2011

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.