Genetics

Study of heredity and variation in living organisms.

Practical Applications

Personalized Medicine

Medicine Tailored to Your Genes

Personalized medicine uses information about a person’s genes to choose the best treatments for them.

How Does It Work?

Doctors can test your DNA to see how you might respond to certain medicines or whether you are at risk for specific diseases.

Benefits

  • Safer Treatments: Less risk of side effects.
  • Better Results: Medicines are more likely to work.
  • Early Prevention: Doctors can spot health risks before symptoms appear.

Challenges

Not everyone has access to genetic testing, and there are privacy concerns about who can see your genetic information.

The Future of Healthcare

As technology advances, personalized medicine will become more common, helping everyone get the treatment that’s right for them.

Examples

  • A cancer patient’s tumor is tested to find the most effective drug based on its genetic makeup.

  • People with a gene that makes them react badly to a common medication can be given a safer alternative.