The field of genetics has expanded rapidly in recent years, and it can be challenging to navigate what all of this complex information means.

That’s where Genetic Support Foundation can help.

The Patient Library is your resource for objective, up-to-date information about the field of genetics. This resource will help you understand key areas of genetics and how they affect your personal health.

Genetics 101

To know about genetics is to know about yourself. This basic background can be a helpful resource for understanding genetics.

Genetics & Infertility

Learn more about some of the possible underlying genetic causes of infertility.

Genetics & Pregnancy

Many genetic-related topics are discussed during or prior to pregnancy. These topics can empower you with information on what testing options are available, help you understand what results can and cannot tell you, and help you decide which tests are right for you based on your own personality, beliefs, needs and values.

Genetics & Newborn Screening

Newborn screening is genetic testing that is done shortly after a baby is born. This testing checks for rare conditions that can have serious implications if unknown, but if diagnosed early can be treated. Learn more about the different types of medical conditions that newborn screening can look for, and what your state tests for.

Genetics & Child Development

Watching children grow and learn can be one of the most rewarding things in life. Some children can experience health concerns as they grow, including intellectual and developmental delays, and it can be helpful to determine if there is an underlying genetic cause that may lead to other health issues.

Genetics & Metabolic Disorders

Our metabolism isn't just how our body processes our food, but how it breaks down, stores, and gets rid of many different substances in the body. There are many types of underlying genetic metabolic disorders that can affect how this process works

Genetics & Cancer

Genetic testing in the setting of a personal or family history of cancer is becoming more and more common. This powerful technology can tell us a lot about our personal risks for cancer, our family members’ risks for cancer, and steps we can take to lower those risks. It is equally as important to understand the limitations of genetic testing for cancer. Use these pages to inform your decisions as you navigate this growing field of genetics.

Genetics & Your Heart (Cardiovascular)

The heart is one of the most important organs in our body, pumping blood throughout the body through our vascular system. There are many health issues with our heart that become more common as we get older. Some families have a higher chance to develop these health issues, and to develop them at younger ages, due to their genetics.

Genetics & Connective Tissue Disorders

Connective tissue holds our bodies together and impacts how our bones, joints, and organs grow and function. Some genetic conditions can affect how the connective tissue works in the body.

Genetics & Personalized Medicine

Unpack the buzzword and bring light to genomic testing for targeted cancer therapies, whole genome testing, genetic nutrition tests, and direct to consumer tests. This section will be updated as new developments are made in this field.