Every person carries a unique genetic code—a set of instructions that tells our bodies how to grow, function, and repair themselves. Sometimes, however, a small change in that code can have a big impact. These changes, called mutations , can lead to what we know as genetic disorders . What Is a Genetic Disorder? A genetic disorder  is a health condition caused by an abnormality in a person’s DNA. DNA is the blueprint for every cell in the body, so even a small error can disru