DNA testing for paternity results has many benefits, from the peace of mind of knowing for certain that a biological relationship exists to knowing family health history and inheritance eligibility.
The method for collecting DNA samples for paternity DNA testing has many questioning whether blood samples would be more accurate than buccal (cheek) swabs. In short, the answer is no. Here’s a look at why cheek-swabbing is the preferred method for DNA collection.
Advantages for the client
The use of buccal swabs in paternity kits is non-invasive and a much easier technique for the collection of DNA samples. This means no needles for those of us who would rather not have blood taken with a needle, especially if it’s not absolutely necessary. The buccal swabs also don’t require refrigeration like blood samples do, and they are good for up to six months after the collection has been taken. DNA testing for paternity results can be an emotionally-difficult procedure, so using buccal swabs is one way to help make the process a little less stressful.
Advantages for the lab
Why do scientists prefer to use buccal swabs over blood samples? From the lab’s point of view,extracting the DNA for testing is a much simpler process when using buccal swabs as opposed to blood samples. When analyzing DNA for paternity testing, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method is used for both buccal swabs or blood, which means the results are the same for both. Brite Hub states “The tests used for identifying DNA in blood samples are the same as used for identification of DNA in mouth lining scrapings.” The only exception is for those who have been a recipient of bone marrow transplants recently. If you have received a bone marrow transplant, you’ll want to speak with the lab conducting the DNA testing before they process the samples.
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