The cost of mapping a person's full genetic profile has been dropping
quickly. Now, doctors are struggling with a new question: how to use
the information to improve people's health.
Genetic profiling, known as genome sequencing, already is helping researchers diagnose rare or mysterious illnesses. Other specialists use
the process to tailor drug therapies for advanced cancer patients. The
latest research focuses on how to use genome sequencing in basically
healthy people, especially those who may have a family history of
disease but no symptoms.
The price to get a full genetic map currently starts at about $3,000,
and many experts predict this could quickly fall to $1,000, roughly
equivalent to the cost of an MRI. Insurance is expected eventually to
help cover the cost of doctor-ordered tests.
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