DNA Test: How Much Does It Cost To Run One?

In Nigeria, how much does a DNA test cost? This is a crucial question for anyone seeking information about their biological connections, potential health risks, or immigration requirements.

In 2024, the cost of DNA testing in Nigeria will vary according on the type of test required. The price of paternity testing, ranging from personal to prenatal, might differ significantly.

In this article, we’ll go over the various DNA tests available in Nigeria and look into the factors influencing their prices. Those considering these services need to be aware of the costs associated with DNA testing.

What Is A DNA Test?

A DNA test is a kind of genetic testing that looks at the DNA sequence to assess genetic diseases or establish paternity in court.

Deoxyribonucleic acid, also known as DNA, is essentially a genetic code that passes on information from both parents to their offspring. Since every person receives a different set of genes from their parents, each person has a unique code. Additionally, it is possible to find out about a person’s family history using DNA test.

Why Carry Out A DNA Test?

To find out before you experience symptoms if you have a hereditary disorder that runs in your family
To find out if a potential or existing pregnancy has a genetic problem
Identifying a hereditary disorder if symptoms are present in you or your child
To fully understand and direct your cancer treatment or prevention strategy

Types of DNA Test?

1. Molecular Test

Molecular testing searches for variations in one or more genes. These tests, known as DNA sequencing, confirm the arrangement of the nucleotides, or building blocks of DNA, in a person’s genetic code.

2. Chromosomal Test

Large-scale mutations are detected by chromosomal testing, which examine entire chromosomes or broad segments of DNA. A chromosome’s additional or missing copy (trisomy or monosomy, respectively), a major portion of a chromosome added (duplicated) or removed (deleted), or rearrangements (translocations) of chromosome segments are examples of changes that can be discovered. When a certain genetic problem is suspected, a chromosomal test can be used to confirm the association between the condition and particular chromosomal alterations.

3. Gene Expression Test

Tests for gene expression check which genes are expressed (turned on or off) in various cell types. When a gene is active, the instructions included in the gene cause the cell to produce a molecule known as mRNA, which serves as a blueprint for the production of proteins. Tests for gene expression look at mRNA in cells to identify the activated genes. Certain genetic illnesses, like many forms of cancer, may be suggested by the overexpression or underexpression of specific genes.

4. Biochemical Test

While biochemical tests examine the quantity or degree of activity of proteins or enzymes created from genes, they do not directly analyse DNA. Deviations from these substances could point to changes in the DNA underlying a hereditary illness.

How is a DNA test done?

Performing a DNA/Genetic tests is obtaining samples from the buccal cells utilising cheek swapping, depending on the objectives and tests that need to be performed. Additionally, samples of blood, hairs, and amniotic fluid (from the foetus in the womb) are taken.

The lab receives these samples for verification, analysis, and screening.

How Much Does It Cost To Run A DNA Test?

Let’s look at the costs of several types of DNA tests in Nigeria as of 2024:

Let’s look at the costs of several types of DNA tests in Nigeria as of 2024:
Standard Pregnancy Care Starting at Week 8: N150,000
The Personal Paternity (Peace of Mind) Test would cost N150,000.
Prenatal Paternity Test: The initial amount is N150,000.
Immigration DNA testing: starting at N270,000
Legal Paternity with DNA Testing – N270,000
The Standard Avuncular Test will cost N200,000.

Why does running a DNA test cost this much?

1. The number of companies offering DNA testing services has increased in Nigeria, with various locations offering the service both domestically and abroad. As a result, DNA test costs are now more reasonable and convenient in Nigeria.

2. The benefits of DNA testing are becoming more well known in Nigeria. These benefits include the capacity to establish lineage, identify genetic abnormalities, and determine paternity. The need for DNA testing services has grown as a result of this.

3. The increasing quantity of DNA test-related court cases: In Nigeria, the use of DNA testing is becoming more common in court issues pertaining to inheritance, immigration, and child custody. Additionally, this has promoted awareness of the advantages of DNA testing.