What are the advantages and disadvantages of genetic profiling and DNA analysis?

Genetic profiling and DNA analysis refers to the processes used to test an individual’s genetic material in an effort to determine their identity as well as disease susceptibility. It is common in the fields of medicine and criminal justice where it is utilized as a forensic technique.

Advantages include:

• Genetic profiling and DNA analysis can be used in the identification of criminal suspects during investigations.


• Genetic profiling and DNA analysis can be used to screen for certain risk factors or genetic diseases.


• Genetic profiling and DNA analysis can be easily applied to any individual’s sample provided it contains cells with nuclei. Such human samples include urine, hair, semen and saliva.


• Genetic profiling and DNA analysis are extremely sensitive serological tests that can be carried out by use of samples that may be too small when carrying out other serological tests.

Disadvantages include:

• Genetic profiling and DNA analysis only offer the probability in terms of statistics rather than the absolute certainty.


• The DNA results stored as data on computers are vulnerable and can be easily exploited. This may lead to an invasion of privacy.