BLOG

Navigating the complexities of genetics can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves personal or family health. That’s where a genetic counselor comes in. At our clinical genetics practice, our genetic counselors work as your guides. They help you understand genetic information and how it impacts you and your loved ones. Whether you're considering genetic testing or managing a genetic condition, here are seven ways our genetic counselors can help. 7 [...]

Types of Genetic Eye and Vision Disorders Genetic disorders can impact every part of our bodies and bodily functions, including vision. If you have a personal or family history of vision loss, blindness, or other eye and vision problems and your doctors can’t figure out the underlying cause, it may be time to look to genetics. Symptoms related to your vision may occur on their own or alongside other health [...]

If you’ve been researching your health and genetics, you may come across the terms genetic screening and genetic diagnostic testing. SequenceMD offers both services for our patients, and the two offerings have very different purposes.  What Is Genetic Screening? Genetic screening is a way to learn if you have an increased risk for certain genetic conditions. Think of it as a first step to see if there’s a reason to [...]

When children have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), doctors often turn to genetic testing for answers. They trust that genetics can help them gather information and find a diagnosis. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for adults with similar conditions. Doctors rarely consider genetic evaluations for adults with IDD. Whether due to outdated clinical guidelines, limited awareness of adult testing benefits, or a lack of nearby clinical geneticists, genetic testing [...]

What are intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs)? Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDDs) are a group of disorders that affect cognitive function and physical or neurological development. These conditions can impact how people learn, communicate, and perform everyday activities. People with IDDs may struggle with communication, social interactions, self-care (like dressing, eating, and hygiene), problem-solving, and following rules or routines. People may have challenges in a few or all of these [...]

If you have family members with cardiac issues, there may be underlying genetic factors you should know about. If the problems began at a young age or have another unusual factor, that’s an even bigger sign to pay attention. Even when a family member has been diagnosed, they may not have been evaluated to see if genetics is the cause. Yet, genetic conditions impact millions of people and numerous heart [...]