There are many obvious benefits to this kind of testing. A negative test (a test that says a person is not likely to develop a disorder) can bring a tremendous sense of relief. Jen Thomson, who recently underwent predictive gene testing for colon cancer, explains, ”So many people in my family died of colon cancer, I worried constantly. When the test came back negative, I felt as if someone had lifted an enormous weight off my shoulder.” A positive test has benefits as well. It warns of the need for preventative care, like frequent checkups, dietary changes, medicines, or even the option of surgically removing the part likely to develop the disease. For example, if Thomson’s test had been positive, she might have chosen to have her colon removed.