Genetics & Cancer
DNA Banking
DNA banking is a clinical service. It involves taking a blood sample from a person and sending it to a lab. The lab removes DNA, the hereditary information in a person’s cells, from the blood sample. The DNA sample is then banked (stored) for an extended period of time. The banked DNA can then be used by the patient and their family for genetic testing in the future. Sometimes there are also research projects that may store DNA, but these samples are often anonymized (patients’ names are removed from them) and are not available to the patient/family.
Participation in a research project is not a substitute for clinical DNA banking.
Why do DNA Banking?
DNA Banking may be appropriate for:
- An individual who may have hereditary cancer, but the genetic testing available today was not able to find the cause. DNA banking could allow the family to take advantage of future advances in genetic testing technology. Access to this information may help the family to better understand their cancer risks.
- Individuals and families being evaluated for a genetic cause for their disease where there is no genetic test available. A genetic test could be available in the future.
- An individual who may have hereditary cancer who is terminally ill or near the end of life. DNA banking assures that genetic material is saved for future testing. The family can then begin the process of genetic counseling and testing when they are ready.
How can I do DNA banking?
You can discuss DNA banking with your genetic counselor. If you have not already seen a genetic counselor and you are interested in DNA banking, you can ask your health care provider to refer you for genetic counseling.
Where would my DNA be banked?
DNA banking is offered through both commercial labs and university-based labs. Your genetic counselor can tell you more about the DNA banking facility where your sample would be stored.
How much does DNA banking cost?
DNA banking costs about $100 - $200. This usually includes the cost of storage for five or more years. DNA banking may or may not be covered by insurance.
If the banked DNA is later sent for genetic testing, there is another charge for the genetic test. Depending on the case, this may or may not be covered by insurance. When family members request genetic testing on banked DNA, this is usually not covered by insurance.
Who can access or use my banked DNA?
You can okay the use of your own banked DNA sample for genetic testing. If needed, the executor of your estate and/or your next of kin may be able to allow use of your banked DNA. Laws and policies governing family members’ access to banked DNA may vary by lab and by state and could change over time.
It is a good idea to include your wishes regarding use of your banked DNA sample when planning your will and to ask for legal help with this. You should also keep all of the paperwork from your DNA banking in a safe place where you and/or family members can get to it.
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