Get helpful resources and updates from the Les Turner ALS Foundation delivered straight to your inbox. You’ll receive information on additional decision tools to help you understand your treatment options and make the decision that's right for you, plus information on upcoming events, ALS research, clinical trials, and more.

Progress — 70%

Think about the downsides of genetic testing

Do any of these downsides stand out to you?

This tool will save your answers so you can look back at them later.

Cost

Genetic testing can be expensive, but your health insurance may cover some or all of the cost. You can also ask your doctor or counselor about programs that provide genetic testing at no cost for people living with ALS.

Limitations of genetic testing

Genetic testing may not give you a clear answer about whether your ALS is due to a pathogenic variant or what symptoms you may have in the future. But you can choose to have your DNA stored for future testing — so as researchers learn more about genetic causes of ALS, you can too.

Emotions that may come with genetic testing

Genetic testing can bring up difficult emotions for you and your loved ones.

Select all