When we think of DNA it is usually connect to some kind of crime.
It is a science most of us do not understand, but there is a new way to use DNA testing that brings it home.
A new DNA testing lab in Winnipeg is promising it can find out whether you are genetically susceptible to a disease.
For some it is a chance to guard against and steer clear of potential problems but for others it is Pandora's Box.
All it takes is two-millimetres of saliva, and a bit of a wait.
Within weeks, Lesley Dickson will get an entire map of her own DNA.
"I want to know, I need to know. I owe it to my children to know," explains Dickson.
The DNA Testing Centre of Canada has just opened its doors in Winnipeg.
The main lab is in Toronto, but the clinic on Academy Road is a collection centre, the first of its kind in Canada.
The DNA test examines whether a patient is genetically susceptible to illnesses like cancer, Multiple Sclerosis or Alzheimer's.
Dickson lost both of her parents to cancer, and had her children later in life.
"If I can avoid that, or prolong my life to help prevent or increase my longevity for my children," says Dickson.
Not everyone likes the idea of knowing so much.
One insurance broker says there are risks to having your DNA mapped.
David Shpak says when applying or even renewing life insurance the DNA report could lead to higher premiums or even an outright denial of insurance.
Shpak says one day a DNA test could even become a requirement to get insurance.
"I didn't think that people would necessarily be doing blood and urine specimens 25-years ago either so how the business evolves I don't know," says Shpak.
Dr. Babubhai Patel says even if this test finds a gene showing you may be susceptible to a condition, it doesn't mean you'll necessarily get an illness.
He says having your DNA mapped can encourage you to take steps to prevent an illness or get early screening.
Once the patient receives the DNA report, they are told to discuss the findings with their family doctor.
They then can decide on what lifestyle changes need to be made.
"I'm not going down without a fight, I'm not. I owe it to my kids." says Dickson.
Like anything, this testing has limitations.
A medical geneticist with the WRHA says the DNA test can be misleading because it only looks at low probability risk factors.
There are many other genetic factors that need to be considered to determine a patient's risk of contracting a disease.
With a report from CTV's Rachel Lagac�
