What is the term for the use of specific tests to check for inherited genes that cause disease?

The term that describes the use of specific tests to check for inherited genes that cause disease is best defined as genetic screening. This process involves analyzing an individual's genetic makeup to identify mutations or markers that may indicate a predisposition to certain health conditions. Genetic screening is widely used in public health to detect genetic disorders early in life, allowing for timely intervention or management.

Genomics refers to the broader study of genomes, including the sequencing and analysis of an organism's complete set of DNA, while genomic testing typically involves the analysis of numerous genes simultaneously, which may go beyond simply identifying inherited disease-causing mutations. Gene therapy, on the other hand, refers to experimental techniques aimed at treating or preventing disease through the alteration of genes. Each of these terms is related to genetics but serves a different function within the field.