DNA Testing Can Confirm Paternity Beyond Physical Resemblance — Dr. Evans Fei Fosu
Story: Maurice Otoo
Dr. Evans Fei Fosu, Director of MMALABS, has underscored the importance of DNA testing in establishing biological relationships, stressing that physical resemblance alone is not enough to confirm paternity.
Speaking via Zoom interview on Kessben TV’s Digest show on the subject of the proposed mandatory DNA test of unborn children, Dr. Fosu explained that while a child may closely resemble an individual, such similarity does not automatically prove biological fatherhood.
According to him, only scientific testing through DNA analysis can provide certainty in determining whether a person is the biological father of a child.
“A child can resemble someone, but that does not make the person the biological father until it is scientifically proven by DNA,” he stated.
Dr. Fosu further noted that in some cases, people may look very identical without sharing any blood relation, while others may have little or no physical resemblance yet be proven to have the exact genetic connection.
He observed that there is growing public interest in DNA testing as more people seek clarity about their biological relationships and personal status.
Beyond paternity concerns, Dr. Fosu pointed out that women can also benefit from DNA testing to confirm the identity of their babies, especially in light of concerns about baby-swapping incidents in some health facilities.
He indicated that such occurrences may happen either knowingly or unknowingly, making DNA testing a valuable tool for assurance and accountability.
Dr. Fosu’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions on whether DNA testing should become mandatory before or after childbirth, as part of efforts to promote transparency and reduce disputes over parentage.
