Taiwan doctor recommends genetic testing for better health insights

台灣醫生建議基因檢測以獲得更好的健康見解

Genetic testing helps with disease risk detection and medication customization for health management


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Family doctor Kuo Tsui-wen (郭紋翠) said Saturday (Nov. 16) that genetic testing is essential for better health insights that could save lives.

Kuo, a doctor at Lo-Sheng Sanatorium and Hospital, under the Ministry of Health and Welfare, explained that genetic testing helps identify gene changes and determine a person’s chance of developing a genetic disorder, per CNA.

Genetic tests use samples of blood, hair, skin, or amniotic fluid samples to detect specific changes in DNA, chromosomes, or proteins. These samples are analyzed in a laboratory to identify issues linked to possible health conditions or diseases, per MedlinePlus.

Kuo noted many diseases, such as cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes, and certain rare diseases, potentially have a connection to genes. Genetic testing can help understand one's body better because each person is born with a unique genetic makeup.

Kuo added some individuals are inherently resistant to certain medications. Genetic testing helps predict a person’s drug resistance, enabling doctors to customize medications accordingly.

According to the National Development Council, Taiwan is set to become a super-aged society by next year. Kuo said genetic testing helps with personal health management and improves the quality of life for older adults.