What type of genetic test provides information about an asymptomatic person's risk for having a child with a specific autosomal recessive disorder?

The correct choice is focused on assessing the likelihood that an individual who appears healthy, meaning they do not show symptoms of a particular autosomal recessive disorder, may still carry a genetic variant that could be passed on to their offspring. A carrier test is designed specifically for this purpose: it identifies whether a person carries one copy of a gene mutation associated with an autosomal recessive disorder.

In the context of genetic inheritance, both parents must carry the gene mutation for there to be a risk of having an affected child. This type of testing is crucial for family planning and can inform individuals about their reproductive options, especially if they belong to a population with a higher incidence of certain genetic disorders.

Other tests mentioned serve different purposes. A diagnostic test is used to confirm or rule out a specific condition in someone already exhibiting symptoms. A predictive test assesses the likelihood of developing a genetic disorder based on one’s genetic makeup, often focusing on dominant inheritance patterns. Newborn screening is a proactive approach conducted shortly after birth to detect certain genetic conditions early on, but it does not apply to assessing potential risks in asymptomatic individuals regarding future offspring. Thus, the carrier test is the appropriate choice for understanding risks associated with autosomal recessive conditions in asymptomatic individuals.