FAQ: Background and Benefits of Genetic Testing
Knowing your genetic heritage gives you the power to be proactive about your health and tailor a personalized medicine plan around your individual DNA profile.
What is genomics? Show/Hide»
Genomics is the comprehensive study of all genetic information in the cell.
Why should I take this test? Show/Hide»
With research constantly disclosing vast quantities of information about genes' role in disease, knowing more about your genetic heritage gives you the power to be proactive, allowing you to take part in the emerging area of personalized medicine. Learning about your genetic risk factors lets you and your physician plan an individualized program of preventative care. Nature Genetics (Aug 2008), "With the completion of the sequence of the human genome, scientific experts have characterized a rapidly approaching future in which genomic risk information might be used by individuals and health care providers to facilitate decision-making, personalize treatment and motivate lifestyle improvements and adherence to screening recommendations."
What is the scientific basis of the genetic assessments that you offer? Show/Hide»
We have developed a unique way to assign a risk score to the subtle interaction of genes and gene variants previously identified as associated with the diseases in question via painstakingly conducted case-control studies. Based on observed frequencies of diseases and genotyping from case control studies, we have developed a unique and accurate risk assessment methodology. This approach produces a wide range of risk via assessment of multiple genes. We then score the result and produce individual genetically based risk scores which help you predict the onset of disease. Peer reviewed articles which represent this approach, are available on our website for you to review.
Your brochure and website says that this test identifies "genetic risk factors" for disease. Aren't there other causes of disease? How do I measure mine? Show/Hide»
Our tests measure certain highly relevant genetic risk factors—the risk of disease based on the individual's genetic endowment. Environmental risk factors (e.g. cigarette smoking and lung cancer, head trauma and dementia) are harder to quantify for individual's. There are things that people do or things they are exposed to, like toxic chemicals at work, that contribute to disease onset. Indeed, some people have DNA that makes them very susceptible to disease after environmental exposure (gene-environment interaction) but none of that is measured here. High risk persons should make a special effort to have a healthy lifestyle, especially limiting suspected lifestyle exposures.
One of my relatives got breast cancer. Is that a good reason to take the test? Show/Hide»
Aside from rare families that carry specific breast cancer mutations (i.e., BRCA1 and BRCA2) the relationship between one relative getting breast cancer and another becoming affected is on average not great. Each relative carries a combination of gene variants from both parents that poses an individual level of inherited risk. Our test measures a highly relevant set of gene variants and is informative by defining a broad range of inherited risk. This information gives the individual good information on which to make decisions about medical care in the future.
Why does the relative risk for some people go so high? Show/Hide»
The set of high-risk gene variants is found together by chance, inherited from both parents, in a small percentage of high-risk individuals. Other's vary in inherited level of risk from very low to moderate risk depending on which combination of gene variants have been inherited.
Do your tests have the same relevance across all racial and ethnic groups? Show/Hide»
That's a tough question. Like many other genetic studies, the research that we used to develop our tests was conducted among persons of European descent. Whether or not the results are equally useful for individuals with other ancestry is not known.
Do you plan to have tests for other diseases in the future? If so, will you need additional DNA from me to do them? Show/Hide»
Yes, we are formalizing new tests. Because your DNA material is destroyed after testing, we would need additional DNA from you to test for these new diseases.
At what age will I benefit from this test? Show/Hide»
We have found that concern about disease increases as we get older. However, any adult could benefit from the test.
I have been diagnosed with breast cancer, do you recommend that I still be tested? Show/Hide»
No, those persons diagnosed/under treatment would benefit less from this assessment test.
Will this test tell me if I am going to get breast cancer? Show/Hide»
No, it will provide you with information about your risk of getting the disease, thus empowering you to consider lifestyles, diagnostic testing, and potential treatments suitable to your risk level.
Can I be discriminated against based on genetic test results? Show/Hide»
No, the Genetic Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 bars health insurance companies or employers from denying or canceling coverage, hiking premiums or making decisions on hiring, firing and compensation based on genetic test results.