Why Should I Learn My Family’s Medical History?

| September 30, 2026

Science tells us that everyone has their own DNA; no one else is exactly like us. Even our fingerprints are completely unique to us! It may seem like our lifelong health should be our own, too, but that isn’t the case.

Genetics plays a huge role in everything from our eye and hair color to our internal health. But while we tend to think of genetics as external features or personality traits, genetics affects your health in profound ways.

Children of single mothers may only know their mother’s medical history. In many cases, only knowing your mother’s medical history isn’t sufficient to understand your personal genetics. It’s just one piece of the puzzle. Even if you know your mother and father’s medical history, there are still so many genes that can be in your genetic pool.

Why is a medical history important for your health?

A family medical history is a record of health information about a person and his or her close relatives. A complete record includes information from three generations of relatives, including children, brothers and sisters, parents, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, grandparents, and cousins.

Knowing your medical history is important for your health because it gives you a more complete picture of genetic traits, diseases, mental health disorders, or addiction tendencies. Without knowing your family’s medical history, you may not realize your genetic predisposition to diabetes, cancer, heart disease, depression, or alcoholism. Certain lifestyle and environmental choices can worsen these conditions, and you could develop a condition that could have been avoided.

Knowing your family’s medical history allows you to take steps to reduce your risk for certain diseases. Healthcare professionals may recommend more frequent screening for certain cancers (such as mammography or colonoscopy) or starting screening at an earlier age. Physicians may also encourage regular checkups, testing, or lifestyle changes for people with a predisposition for other diseases such as diabetes.

While knowing your family’s medical history is beneficial, it doesn’t guarantee you will develop their conditions. Many environmental and lifestyle choices can trigger disease or prevent it; your physician can help guide you in an individual health plan.

How do I learn my family’s medical history?

The easiest way to get information about family medical history is to talk to relatives about their health. Additionally, ask about their relatives’ health conditions for even more information.

If you don’t know your family tree, a genetic test from DNA Paternity Testing Centers can help you learn about your relatives.  Our genetic tests are fast and accurate, so you can determine your family tree quickly.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

Does Insurance Cover DNA Paternity Testing?

| September 15, 2026

Like most medical tests, DNA testing can be expensive, especially certain kinds of DNA tests. Since DNA testing falls in the realm of medical tests, it’s understandable to assume insurance covers DNA tests. But is this true?

Most of the time, DNA testing is not covered under medical insurance. This is because DNA testing to establish paternity, maternity, or any other relationship is not a health-related test. Insurance only covers tests and procedures they can bill for under a CPT, or Current Procedural Terminology, code. A CPT code describes medical, surgical, and diagnostic services performed by healthcare providers. Since there is no CPT code for DNA testing, insurance companies rarely cover these tests.

Certain circumstances may allow some insurance companies to cover the cost of a DNA test. Genetic knowledge may be essential for medical decision-making, such as assessing genetic risks where parental status affects the child’s treatment. However, this usually requires extensive documentation from the treating physicians and/or preauthorization.

If you’re struggling with finding the funds to cover the cost of a DNA test, you can inquire about state or federal programs that subsidize or provide coverage for genetic tests. HSA and FSA may also be applicable. Thankfully, DNA testing is usually a one-time expense; you’ll never have to re-confirm paternity if the match is positive. But by identifying your child’s paternity, you can receive financial and family support in the future. The best option is to confirm your child’s paternity!

At DNA Paternity Testing, our affordable tests make it easier to confirm paternity and get you the help you need!

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

Can You Get a DNA Test of Deceased Parents?

| August 29, 2026

Paternity is easily established through DNA testing of living fathers, but, unfortunately, sometimes the alleged father of the child is deceased. Although the father can’t be present in the child’s life or assist the mother in raising them, the child can still benefit from confirming their paternity. Once a child has a confirmed parentage, they have access to:

  • Inheritance rights
  • The father’s medical history
  • Eligibility for social security or survivor benefits

Although confirming a deceased parent is a little more challenging, it’s worth the effort for the benefit of the child.

There are a few ways to confirm a deceased father’s paternity. Perhaps the easiest way is to perform a DNA test on the parents or siblings of the alleged father. We can also test proven children of the alleged father. Although the genetic ties won’t be as strong as to the father, if the child is related to their grandparent, aunt, uncle, or half-sibling, there will be genetic matches. This is enough to confirm paternity.

If alleged grandparents or siblings aren’t available, a paternity test can be performed using a sample containing the alleged father’s DNA. We can test the alleged father’s blood, hair, fingernails, toenails, or cheek swab. Of course, these are only possible to obtain before burial or cremation, so this isn’t always an option. In some cases, the cremated remains can be tested, but this is less common.

All children deserve to know their paternity. This knowledge can benefit them for the rest of their lives, so families should do all they can to get paternity answers for the child.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What Is a Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) Test?

| August 12, 2026

Some paternity choices and preferences can’t wait until after the baby is born. Thankfully, there are several ways to determine your baby’s paternity before it is born.

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is the process of taking a sample of the baby’s amniotic fluid for genetic testing. Guided by an ultrasound image, a long-needled syringe takes some of the amniotic fluid, leaving your baby safely inside your womb. The amniotic fluid contains cells shed by the baby from its skin, lungs, and urinary tract, and these cells are sufficient for genetic analysis. While it can determine paternity, mothers who undergo this procedure usually want further testing for genetic abnormalities, such as Down Syndrome or other trisomy disorders. It is typically done between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.

An amniocentesis averages $4,100. While it is generally safe, there are risks, including miscarriage, needle injury, and infection.

Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) Test

Although amniocentesis can have some advantages with more extensive genetic testing, a NIPP test is safer, cheaper, and a better choice for determining paternity. A NIPP test is performed by taking a blood sample from the mother and a cheek swab from the alleged father. It can be done as early as seven weeks and, at $1095 from DNA Paternity Testing Centers, is a fraction of the cost of amniocentesis. Because it is less invasive, it is safer for the baby and mother.

While amniocentesis has its place, a NIPP test from DNA Paternity Testing Centers gets you the paternity results you need quickly, safely, and at the best price!

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

Top 4 DNA Test Myths Debunked

| July 27, 2026

There is a lot of mystery surrounding DNA testing. What type of DNA test do I need? How are the results of a DNA test determined? Are all DNA tests the same?

Here are 4 common myths about DNA testing.

1. DNA Testing is Expensive

Not that long ago, DNA testing was over $1000. The cost reserved DNA testing for only necessary circumstances. But with scientific advancements and the popularity of ancestral test kits, paternity test kit costs have dropped dramatically. At DNA Paternity Testing Centers, our test kits start at just $299!

2. The Baby Has to Be Born

Scientific advancements now allow a mother to determine her baby’s paternity before it is even born! After more than 4 years of research and development, DNA Paternity Testing Centers are proud to offer a first-of-its kind Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity (NIPP) Test. You must be at least 9 weeks pregnant. The test is administered by drawing the mother’s blood and a buccal swab for the father.

3. All DNA Tests Are the Same

There are many kinds of DNA tests: ancestral, genetic, dietary, paternity, and so much more! Further, DNA test centers are not created equally. If you’re looking for reliable, court admissible test results, you must order from an AABB-accredited lab. Luckily, DNA Paternity Testing Centers uses AABB-accredited labs for all our test results, so your results are not only reliable, but court admissible.

4. Both Parents Must Be in the Same Location

While you might think both parents must attend the same appointment at the same test center, this is not the case. In fact, the parents can be across the country and still get results with DNA Paternity Testing Centers. We make is easy to get the results you need! We have thousands of test centers nationwide, so you can make an appointment at a test center most convenient for you.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

How Do I Schedule a DNA Test?

| July 11, 2026

DNA Paternity Testing Centers is a top-accredited DNA testing lab that offers unbeatable prices, quality care, and fast results. DNA Paternity Testing Centers uses AABB-accredited testing facilities so your results are admissible in court.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers has a location near you where you can easily schedule an appointment. Here is how to schedule a DNA test at one of our centers.

How Do I Schedule a DNA Test?

The easiest way to schedule an appointment is by calling 866.944.9546. However, you can also:

What Information Do DNA Paternity Testing Centers Need?

DNA Paternity Testing Centers need minimal information to schedule an appointment. When you make your appointment, be ready to give the following information:

  • Names of all relationships participating in the test
  • Relationships of all individuals participating in the test
  • Date of birth of all individuals participating in the test
  • Zip code
  • Contact number

Remember that during check-in at your appointment time, you must present a photo ID for all individuals taking the test, including children.

Can I Walk In for an Appointment?

No, DNA Paternity Testing Centers does not accept walk-in appointments. However, same-day appointments are available! You can be seen the same day, but you must schedule an appointment first.

Do All Parties Have to Visit the Same Facility?

No, you do not have to attend the same appointment or even come to the same facility. This is a huge advantage to using DNA Paternity Testing Centers! With over 2,000 facilities nationwide, the involved parties can schedule an appointment at their most convenient location and time.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

What Should I Expect During My DNA Appointment?

| June 27, 2026

If you need to collect a DNA sample for court-admissible results, look no further than DNA Paternity Testing Centers! We have over 2,000 locations, so you can book an appointment at a convenient time and location. Here’s what you can expect at your appointment.

You should arrive a few minutes before your appointment so you can get checked in at the front desk. You must present a photo ID of yourself and/or of your child at the front desk. This confirms your identity so your results are accurate. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, state-issued ID, military ID, and passport.

Children must have a photo ID, a birth certificate, or a Social Security card. If testing a newborn and a birth certificate or a Social Security card may not be available, the mother or legal guardian should visit the testing facility with the child, provide their photo ID, and the hospital discharge papers. If there is absolutely no ID available for the child in a case, we can still provide DNA testing; however, the legal use of your test results could be affected.

At your appointment time, you will be taken to a private room where a medical professional will perform a buccal swab test. This is a cotton swab attached to a long plastic stick. The professional will gently swab the inside of the right and left cheek. It is a quick and painless test. That’s it!

DNA Paternity Testing Center uses AABB-accredited testing facilities so your results are admissible in court. You will receive a phone call in three to five business days to verbally confirm the results. The documents will arrive via priority mail.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

Which Is Better: At Home or Medical DNA Test

| June 13, 2026

Collecting a DNA sample for court-admissible evidence is very different than collecting DNA for personal reasons. If someone wants to learn about their ancestry, genetic predispositions, or other personal data, they wouldn’t use someone else’s data for their test. However, someone might use another’s DNA to alter the results of a court case. This is why the collection process is so important at DNA Paternity Testing Centers.

When collecting your genetic sample, DNA Paternity Centers first collects your ID or the identification of the child. This ensures the sample is accurate with your identity or the identity of your child. A medical professional will swab the inside of both cheeks with a cotton swab and put the sample in a container with the correct name.

A home test cannot be used as court-admissible genetic evidence. It is too tamper with the evidence, alter the rulings of the case, and thereby affect the lives of all parties involved.

Luckily, DNA Paternity Testing Center has over 2,000 locations. Our testing centers are accessible, and appointments are easy to schedule. You don’t have to attend the same appointment or location with all members of your party, but everyone can schedule an appointment at a center closest to them.

When you’re collecting a DNA sample for court, a crucial element is the lab where the testing is completed. An AABB-accredited facility must analyze the sample. DNA Paternity Testing Centers exclusively uses AABB facilities, so all your results are accurate and admissible in court.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

DNA Predicts Response to Weight-Loss Drugs

| May 23, 2026

For some time, genetic scientists have shown that DNA determines certain health markers that make someone more susceptible to obesity than others. Using these health markers, dieticians claim to craft diets tailored for individuals looking to lose weight through diet. While these diets work for some, they don’t for others; using a genetic test to help individuals lose weight has generally gone out of style

Now, scientists claim there is a new way genetics can assist obese persons: by anticipating their response to weight loss drugs like GLP-1. The test calculated a person’s CTS–calories to satiation, essentially, how many calories it takes for someone to feel full. The test revealed the following results:

  • “People with a high satiation threshold lost more weight on phentermine-topiramate. This drug may help control portion size and reduce large-meal overeating (hungry brain).
  • People with a low satiation threshold responded better to liraglutide. This drug may reduce overall hunger and frequency of eating (hungry gut).”

The scientists were very pleased with the results, stating that it would benefit those with obesity and their journey to become healthier. It also makes treatment plans more cost-effective for obese persons, since they know which drug will help them lose weight.

While science continues to advance with genetic testing, the primary and most accurate use for genetic testing is paternity. Paternity testing from DNA Paternity Testing Centers is 99.99% accurate and is admissible in court for paternity rulings.

 

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!

DNA Tests Helps Families Reunite After Disasters

| May 11, 2026

Natural or unplanned disasters are a huge risk to a child’s well-being. When a catastrophe strikes, families can be suddenly separated, with no preparation for the care of the children or plans for reunification.

Children are particularly vulnerable during disasters; they may not know how to protect, feed, or care for themselves until they can be reunified with their families. This can lead to greater fatalities.

Another challenge of reunification after a disaster is for preverbal or nonverbal children. Young or nonverbal children, unable to even say their name, can go unidentified for extended periods of time while family members search desperately for them.

However, DNA testing can help disaster relief operations reunite families after a catastrophe. Preverbal and nonverbal children, unconscious, or deceased children, can be reunited with their families quickly using a simple DNA test.

While there aren’t many natural disasters or catastrophes in America, DNA testing is a necessity for other countries more prone to disasters. Additionally, Chung and Blake point out, “With disasters expected to increase in frequency and severity due to global climate change, population growth, worsening pollution, and political instability, more children are expected to become separated from their families as a result of disasters. Whether a disaster occurs by a force of nature or as a man-made result of human intent, preparation for family separations and prioritization of prompt, accessible, and safe tools to facilitate family reunifications are necessary.” It’s possible that DNA testing may need to be used for local reunification in the near future.

With over 2,000 centers nationwide, DNA Paternity Testing Centers is one of the largest, most affordable networks of accredited DNA testing labs in the United States. Our price is unbeatable without sacrificing quality. We offer DNA testing for paternity, maternity, and all other relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, aunts, and uncles. Call us today at 866.944.9546 or ORDER ONLINE!