Genetic testing has become very common these days. Many undergo these tests to find their long-lost relatives, build their family tree, or understand their ethnicity and ancestry. Some do it to analyze their overall health, which, in turn, helps with the early detection and prevention of diseases. In rare cases, people do it to know if specific treatments work for them. Those looking to undergo genetic testing can consider these companies.

23andMe
This genetic testing company was founded in 2006. 23andMe offers different DNA analysis tools and kits that help individuals understand their genes better. They are particularly well-known for ancestry determination purposes as many people contact them to understand their lineage or family tree. One of the company’s most comprehensive tests offers an in-depth report of over 170 genetic factors, including heritage, pharmacogenetics, and traits, among several other things. Pharmacogenetics, in particular, is an advanced study to determine how someone will respond to specific treatment options.

Genetic tests from 23andMe also provide valuable insights when analyzing a person’s current health condition. They can tell if specific treatments will work well for a person or not. Some of their tests give information about carrier status. This means one can find out if they carry the genes for sickle cell anemia, hearing loss, and other conditions and take preventive steps accordingly. 23andMe offers easy-to-use in-home testing kits where users can collect a saliva sample and receive results three to four weeks later.

FamilyTreeDNA
FamilyTree DNA is another famous name in the genetic testing industry. Established in 2000, the company offers a wide range of services to determine a person’s ancestry, ethnicity, and more. They also provide unique tests where one can trace their origin on either their maternal or paternal sides. The best part is that FamilyTreeDNA does not ask people to visit them to provide samples. Users only need to order the DNA kit online, swab the inside of the cheeks, and mail it back to the main office with the prepaid package that comes with the kit. They do not need to provide any blood, sweat, or spit. FamilyTreeDNA takes around four to eight weeks to share the results of the DNA analysis.

One drawback is that FamilyTreeDNA has only four test kits to choose from: Maternal Ancestry, Paternal Ancestry, Family Ancestry, and Family Ancestry + myDNA Wellness. The myDNA Wellness kit helps get more insight into an individual’s health with over 30 health reports.

AncestryDNA
Those looking for genetic testing companies for tracing their roots can try AncestryDNA. It is best for learning about ethnic origins and researching ancestors. It is also an excellent choice for those who want to find long-lost relatives as the company has a comprehensive database of DNA matches, which shows people how they are related to different individuals. The company also provides an option to message or get in touch with those on their relatives’ list, irrespective of whether they are nearby or abroad. This is possible because the company has vast records of over 15 million individuals, and they keep adding entries based on new reports.

AncestryDNA offers three packages. The most basic package is AncestryDNA, which allows one to learn where their family is from and costs $99. The AncestryDNA + Family Tree combo package enables individuals to learn about their family and gives a three-month explorer package to find genetically related people. This costs roughly $100. The third package is the all-inclusive package, where one can learn about their traits and access premium features. Those who want to use AncestryDNA must order their kit online, collect their saliva sample, and mail it to the company. The company takes around six to eight weeks to show results.

MyHeritage
This genetic testing company allows individuals to find their ethnicity and ancestry from more than 2,000 regions worldwide. One can discover which geographical locations their ancestors came from and trace new relatives. MyHeritage’s comprehensive report also shows the percentage of DNA a person shares with other individuals and their possible relationship. Further, it provides a complete family tree with the help of autosomal DNA testing. This test helps find relatives six to eight generations back. There are also other tests that help trace 150 to 200 years of family history.

MyHeritage is one of the more affordable genetic testing options. Their basic kit costs roughly $89. Their kit comes with access to various historical records, which can also be upgraded to receive health assessments. And it does not end there. Individuals get a free limited-time trial, so they can use the services first and only then sign up for a paid plan.

Since many companies offer these services, locating them is not difficult. Searching “genetic testing nearby” online will provide relevant results. However, it is advisable to research the provider and compare options before signing up.