genetic diseases

Genetically modified virus saves teen's life

Isabelle Carnell-Holdaway, 17, has faced not one but two unrelenting threats to her life. Diagnosed at 11 months of age with cystic fibrosis, the progressive genetic disease that causes lung infections and breathing impairment, Isabelle has also combated an on-again, off-again infection caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria since age 8.

New recommendations say not all women need genetic testing for cancer

Primary care providers should screen women for personal, family and/or ethnic history of breast, ovarian, tubal or peritoneal cancer to decide who should undergo genetic counseling for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommended Tuesday. The mutations increase a woman's cancer risk.

Congrats on the new baby. Would you like a DNA screening test?

Every baby born in the United States is given a routine blood test to screen for dozens of inherited medical conditions. Now, the U.S. National Institutes of Health is exploring whether to use DNA sequencing to screen newborn babies for additional genetic abnormalities and disorders. Such DNA testing would likely complement, but not replace, the current routine blood tests.