Used in high-profile criminal investigations and paternity cases, deoxyribonucleic acid, commonly known as DNA, testing has now been popularized to prove relationships between individuals. The evolution of the test in past years has turned DNA testing into a popular tool for determining ancestry. The test also helps in determining if two people are related or descend from the same ancestor. Although DNA has been around for many years now, the cost has dropped enough to be affordable to average individuals interested in tracing their roots.



Home DNA test kits can now be ordered over the Internet or through the mail at a cost of less than $ 300 per test. The kit usually contains a swab or mouthwash that can help collect a sample of cells from the inside the mouth.

The samples can be posted back via mail and within a span of one month an individual can receive a series of numbers that represent key chemical ""markers"" within his DNA. These numbers can then be compared to results from other individuals to help determine ancestry.

This small amount of blood or cheek swab allows the testing of newborns as well. Paternity tests can also be conducted during pregnancy. These samples are compared to trace any similarities and then sent to the laboratory for verification. The results of a DNA testing are accurate and confidential.

If the results of the DNA testing are to be used in a court of law, and require a legal standing, a home DNA test is not usually admissible. A much more rigorous approach in verifying the source of every sample is required. The process of obtaining the samples is witnessed and fully documented, including taking photographs of all the parties associated with each sample. This continuity is maintained with the laboratory environment, and allows an expert witness to provide an opinion in court, as to the relevance of the test results.