As parents, we know how important it is to give our kids the best start in life. We also know the peace of mind we get from understanding what’s going on in our little one’s health. It helps us sleep better at night.
Knowledge is power when it comes to our child’s genetics, too. The more we know, the better we can advocate for their well-being. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our collaboration with Nurture Genomics.
Nurture uses the latest genetic screening to catch and treat genetic conditions early. They make the science easy to understand, so you get meaningful health insights based on cutting-edge genomics.
Meet guest blogger Laura Andolina, head of Genetic Counseling at Nurture Genomics. With nearly 20 years of experience as a board-certified genetic counselor, she’s here to share her insights on genetic testing in children. She’ll also dive into how Nurture’s innovations are reshaping the future of early detection and treatment.
By Laura Andolina, MS, CGC
Prenatal screening 101: what parents need to know
Many genetic tests are available to parents, and it can be tricky to understand how one differs from the next. Knowing what makes each unique can help you choose the best options for your family.
Doctors often offer genetic testing before conception or during pregnancy. Carrier screening tests each parent to see if they have genetic markers that could raise their child’s risk of a health condition. Depending on the lab, the number of conditions tested can vary from one or two to hundreds.
Cell-free DNA testing, or non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), is a test done during pregnancy. This test uses DNA from the baby that is floating in mom’s blood to look for certain chromosomal disorders (like Down syndrome) and genetic conditions. The number of conditions tested varies by lab but usually covers between five and ten. This is a screening test, so the results aren’t definitive. If something unusual pops up in the results, more tests are needed to confirm it.
Childhood genetic screening: a breakthrough
Genetic screening in early childhood is an exciting recent advancement. This screening has the potential to improve children's health and development and even save lives. You may have heard about state newborn screening programs: a small blood sample is taken from a baby’s heel before they leave the hospital.
These public health programs test for treatable conditions that might not show symptoms until a child’s health is at risk. Catching conditions early is key, as doctors can take action before problems start, making a big difference in a child's health. Every state has a newborn screening program, but the number of conditions tested varies by state.
Prenatal and state newborn screening tests only detect a limited number of conditions. That’s why childhood genetic screening is so empowering for parents. It gives them a tool to spot and address serious conditions not covered by most standard tests. It can be a game changer for their children's lifelong health.
Imagine identifying a risk for a devastating illness in a healthy newborn baby. Imagine then being able to find the biomarkers for the ones who are going to develop the disease and even prevent it.
—Nurture Genomics Co-founder Dr. Robert Green, MD, MPH
What early intervention looks like
One way genetic screening can make a big difference is if your child has a genetic immune deficiency. Early screening and detection often means they can start treatments right away. They’ll have the potential to avoid hospital stays and long courses of antibiotics and the opportunity to proactively address challenges with their growth and development. Plus, knowing about and treating an immune condition early may help your little one miss fewer school days due to illness while you search for answers.
Nurture Genomics’ childhood genetic screening uses whole genome sequencing to screen your child’s genome for 413 childhood-onset, actionable conditions. With Nurture, you’re not alone. Every family gets a team of experts to guide and support you through each step of the process. With insights and action plans, you’ll have the tools to make decisions for your child when it matters most.
Giving your kids the best start in life
Nurture’s genomic screening is the perfect companion to Tiny Health microbiome testing. Together, we offer deeper childhood health insights. Giving your little ones the best start in life paves the way for better health outcomes for all kids.
Nurture is extending a $300 discount to all Tiny Health families. Enter code TINYHEALTH during checkout to redeem. We understand that decisions about genetic testing can be challenging for parents. That’s why we're offering Tiny Health families a free virtual consultation with one of our genetics experts. There’s no cost or obligation, only straightforward answers to all your questions. So, go ahead, contact support@nurturegenomics.com, book your appointment, and ask us anything!
