Genetic Testing: How Uncertain Results Impact Our Health

Imagine getting a test result back from your doctor that says something might be wrong, but they’re not sure what it means yet. The uncertainty can be daunting, especially when it involves something as serious as cancer. This is the reality for many people who undergo genetic testing for cancer. A recent study by Invitae shines a light on this issue, providing new insights into the significance of these uncertain genetic results, known as variants of uncertain significance (VUS). This study, which was presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting held in Chicago, not only addresses the challenges faced by patients but also underscores the critical importance of genetic testing across various cancer types.  Here’s what you need to know. What Are Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS)? Genetic testing translates your DNA into information that medical professionals can use to understand your health better. Sometimes, these tests reveal changes in your genes that doctors don’t fully understand yet. These are called variants of uncertain significance, or VUS. They’re like finding a word in a book written in a language you don’t fully understand—it might be important, but without more context, you just can’t be sure....