FAQ
The questions people should ask before and after a DNA test.
Does whole-genome sequencing literally detect every genetic change?
No. WGS is broad, but every sequencing technology has blind spots. Short-read sequencing can be less reliable in some repetitive regions and for certain structural variants. “Whole genome” describes scope, not perfect detection of every possible medically relevant change.
Is WGS always better than 23andMe or Ancestry?
No. WGS gives you a far broader raw sequence dataset. Large genotyping services can still be better for relative matching and genealogy because their consumer databases are enormous.
Can I diagnose myself from a VCF?
No. A VCF is a list of called variants. Variant quality, annotation, evidence strength, conflicting classifications, personal history and clinical confirmation can all matter.
What raw files should I keep?
If your provider gives them to you, keep the highest-level raw data you can reasonably store plus processed files such as VCF. For WGS that can include FASTQ and BAM/CRAM as well as VCF.
Does the File Inspector upload my genome?
No. The Test Your Genome inspector reads selected file data locally in your browser. It is designed for format and metadata detection, not medical interpretation.
Should I worry about genetic privacy?
You should at least understand it. A genome is durable identifying data. Review sample retention, research consent, deletion, matching, data sharing, law-enforcement policy and what happens if the company is sold.
What if a consumer report says I have a serious disease risk?
Do not make treatment or screening changes based only on a consumer result. A qualified clinician or genetic counselor can help determine whether the result is relevant and whether confirmatory testing is appropriate.