What type of testing is conducted to check for genetic disorders in a population?

Genetic screening is designed to assess the presence of genetic disorders in a population. This process involves testing individuals, often in a systematic way, to identify those who may carry genes for certain genetic conditions, even if they do not exhibit symptoms themselves. Genetic screening is typically used in public health initiatives to identify at-risk individuals or to determine the prevalence of genetic disorders within a population, enabling earlier interventions and informed reproductive choices.

In contrast, while genetic testing refers to the analysis of specific genes or chromosomes to diagnose genetic conditions in individuals, it does not necessarily imply a population-wide approach. DNA profiling, on the other hand, is primarily used for identification purposes and forensic analysis rather than for screening for genetic disorders. Viral testing is specifically focused on detecting viral pathogens and is not related to genetic disorders. Therefore, genetic screening is the most suitable option for assessing genetic disorders across a population.