Factbox about DNA testing

Q: What is the DNA paternity test used for?

A: To provide proof of blood relationships, usually in legal cases, including inheritance claims, immigration applications, adoption, legal evidence for child support, and parental rights.

Q: How accurate is it?

A: It is the most accurate parentage test ever devised. Every person has a unique DNA fingerprint, except identical twins. DNA parentage testing is considered to be 100 percent accurate.

Q: Is it possible to conduct a paternity test before a child is born?

A: Yes. An obstetrician or gynecologist will collect the baby's specimen during a time frame that presents the lowest risk to the fetus and the mother. The results are as accurate as those of standard paternity tests conducted after the child is born.

Q: Is blood the only test medium?

A: No. DNA is the same in almost all the cells in our bodies. Once conceived during reproduction, DNA does not change. Therefore, the type of sample - hair, buccal swabs, bone, blood and others - does not affect the accuracy of the result.