Home Genetic Testing Kits Covered | Medical Updates
In the realm of at-home DNA testing, two popular options are AncestryDNA and MyHeritage DNA. Let's delve into their offerings, prices, and what sets them apart.
Firstly, the AncestryDNA kit costs $99 and offers a 3-month Ancestry subscription for just $1 extra. This kit includes analysis of over 700,000 genetic markers, allowing users to trace their ancestry with precision.
MyHeritage DNA, on the other hand, costs $79. The test features noninvasive sample collection through a cheek swab and covers 2,114 geographic regions and 42 ethnicities. However, it's important to note that MyHeritage DNA does not offer health testing as part of its basic DNA testing kit.
For those seeking health testing, both AncestryDNA and MyHeritage offer upgrades. With AncestryDNA, a $120 upgrade fee grants access to health testing. MyHeritage, on the other hand, requires a separate purchase of their Health upgrade, with pricing and availability dependent on the user's location.
When considering an at-home DNA test kit, it's crucial to evaluate the accreditations of the laboratories the company uses, the company's privacy policy, the quality of information on the company's website, and the types of genetic mutations the test focuses on. In this regard, both AncestryDNA and MyHeritage DNA can reassure users, as their labs are accredited by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP).
It's essential to remember that as of the latest information in 2025, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has primarily approved at-home test kits for cancer screening but not directly for broad genetic health risk testing. Therefore, comprehensive genetic health risk testing typically requires clinical settings with professional involvement.
In terms of reviews, the 23andMe Ancestry + Traits Service kit boasts more than 27,000 reviews on Amazon, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. 23andMe offers genetic testing to help individuals learn about their genetic ancestry and genetic health testing to show their risk and carrier statuses for a range of health conditions.
In conclusion, at-home DNA test kits offer an accessible way for people to learn about their genetic makeup, ancestry, and overall health risks. However, it's crucial to approach these tests with a critical eye, considering factors such as laboratory accreditations, privacy policies, and the types of genetic mutations the test focuses on.
Home is a place where individuals can receive a DNA test kit, with AncestryDNA and MyHeritage DNA being popular choices. In the field of science and health-and-wellness, these kits provide insights into ancestry and medical-conditions, albeit with varying levels of comprehensive health testing.
