Buccal Swabs VS Blood Samples: Which Is More Accurate?

When trying to determine a person’s parentage, there are many different options available. Paternity tests are performed by comparing DNA, and most tests differ only in the method of DNA collection. Some of the ways are the following: a strand of hair from the root, samples of nails, skin, or bones. Although there are various ways, the most preferred are buccal swabs and blood samples due to cost efficiency and ease of collection. They are also found to be extremely accurate. Now the question is, which is better or more reliable? When looking at both processes, there are pros and cons to both. Some will automatically say a buccal swab is more efficient because that is the most common test collection method used for paternity testing. Some will say blood because of the common notion that blood contains a better DNA sample. It depends on the person having the testing done to determine which process will be more reliable for them.

Buccal Swabs

One way to collect DNA from a person is by taking a buccal swab. This consists of swabbing the inside of one’s cheek with a large cotton tipped object, similar to a large cotton swab. However, buccal swabs are created specifically to aid in obtaining and storing DNA material. The drawback of taking a buccal swab is that the DNA sample is not visible, and it can be difficult to tell if an adequate sample has been taken. However, this process is quick, easy, and painless. Taking a buccal swab sample is usually slightly less costly than taking blood samples since taking the swab sample does not require a trained technician. This process is less invasive, and for those with a fear of needles it is a highly preferred method.

Blood Samples

In contrast to collection by buccal swabs, a blood test requires a blood sample. This process is slightly invasive. If you do not like needles, or if you get queasy when you see blood, maybe a blood sample is not the best choice. When undergoing the procedure, your finger tip is lightly pierced, and blood is collected from the pierced area. Unlike buccal swabs, the sample is visible, and DNA is able to be verified as present. Some downsides to this procedure are that the person providing the sample will feel a bit of pain and the process takes a bit longer to complete. Another important aspect to consider is that if the person providing the sample has gone through a blood transfusion the sample can be inaccurate.

Which is More Accurate?

Conclusively, both of these methods of DNA collection for paternity testing are extremely reliable and known to be accurate. The outcome of paternity tests are based on DNA samples, and the fact is that both buccal and blood samples provide DNA. The only difference in testing is the method of DNA extraction from the samples; the DNA from one method of collection is not inherently more accurate than from another. Accuracy more often depends on the person being tested . For those with a fear of needles, or who have had a blood transfusion, a buccal swab would most likely be preferred.

If you would like more information about paternity testing, contact The Sedona Group of Austin, located in Austin, TX.

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