by Destiny Gordon&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



We often blame everything on not getting enough sleep—feeling foggy, moody, exhausted, or just off. And while sleep quantity matters, what many of us don’t realize is that it’s not only about how much sleep we get—but when we get it. At the core of it all is your body’s internal clock, known as your circadian rhythm. This quiet, biological timekeeper is constantly at work, regulating everything from <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28165421/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hormone release and metabolism</a> to <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-your-sleep-and-wake-cycles-affect-your-mood-2020051319792" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mood and energy</a>. And when it falls out of sync—whether due to shift work, late nights, excessive screen time, or simply inconsistent routines—your health can start to feel out of balance in ways that go far beyond basic tiredness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-circadian-rhythm">What is circadian rhythm?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-25757" style="width:448px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-880x587.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-1180x788.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980.jpg 1254w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Circadian rhythm is the natural cycle your body goes through in a 24-hour period. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36028773/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genetics</a> plays a key role in determining circadian rhythm. In fact, the researchers who first uncovered the genetic basis of circadian rhythm won the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/nobel-worthy-sleep-science" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2017</a>. Your circadian rhythm <a href="https://nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influences</a> when your brain is sharp, when your body digests food efficiently, and when it needs deep rest. And for women, the interaction between daily circadian rhythms and monthly hormone fluctuations creates <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35101914/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a unique layer of complexity</a>. At different points in the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17383933/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">menstrual cycle</a>, shifts in estrogen and progesterone can make your body more sensitive to sleep disruption, stress, and energy dips. So if your daily rhythm is already out of sync, those hormonal shifts can hit harder—amplifying symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, poor focus, or disrupted sleep. It’s a compounding effect that makes it even more important to stay in rhythm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-when-you-re-misaligned-to-your-circadian-rhythm">What happens when you&#8217;re misaligned to your circadian rhythm?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="691" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-691x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34017" style="width:219px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-691x1024.png 691w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-203x300.png 203w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-594x880.png 594w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption.png 748w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 691px) 100vw, 691px" /></figure>



Research has shown that <a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/circadian-rhythm-disorders/causes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disruptions to this internal rhythm</a>—like being awake when your body naturally wants to be asleep, sleeping at inconsistent times due to shift work, or missing natural light cues—can throw off the timing of critical biological processes. This circadian misalignment can increase the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38564856/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risk of real, long-term health issues for</a> both men and women. These shifts are linked to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4868418/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mood disorders</a> like anxiety and depression, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21270661/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight gain</a>, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6167165/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insulin resistance</a>, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44325-024-00024-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular issues</a>, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945706006216" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">irregular menstrual cycle</a>, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1556407X07001191" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and even fertility challenges</a>. And because these symptoms often start subtly, it’s easy to miss the connection until the effects become harder to ignore.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-we-do-to-keep-our-lives-aligned-to-our-circadian-rhythm">What can we do to keep our lives aligned to our circadian rhythm?</h2>



The tricky part? Circadian disruption often hides in plain sight. It doesn’t always feel like a big, dramatic problem. It can look like staying up a little too late, skipping meals, waking up at inconsistent times, or scrolling in bed just a bit too long. These small habits may not seem like much, but if they happen repeatedly over time, they chip away at your body’s natural rhythm.&nbsp;



The good news? Once you start to tune in, you can make <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/circadian-rhythm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small, manageable changes</a> to help bring your body back into sync. Things like going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends), getting exposure to natural light in the morning, limiting caffeine later in the day, and avoiding screens at least an hour before bed can all support a healthier rhythm. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about creating enough consistency that your body knows when to rise, when to rest, and everything in between.&nbsp;



Because when your body runs in rhythm, everything works better. Your mind feels clearer. Your energy lasts longer. Your health feels like it’s working with you, not against you. So maybe it’s not just about getting more sleep. Maybe it’s time to get back in sync.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



About Destiny:&nbsp; Destiny Gordon is a rising second-year medical student at Morehouse School of Medicine, originally from Jacksonville, Florida. She is the founder of InnerLight ATL, a youth mental health initiative focused on building safe, supportive spaces for emotional wellness. With over three years of experience in cancer research and a passion for community-centered care, Destiny is dedicated to blending science, advocacy, and storytelling to inform and inspire.

Your Body Clock Is Talking—Are You Listening?

Thyroid disease is surprisingly common. Studies have estimated that around 1 in 20 people in the U.S. have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, some of the most common thyroid conditions.[1,2] Yet despite how prevalent thyroid disease is, it&#8217;s also frequently missed. According to the American Thyroid Association, up to 60% of people with a thyroid condition are unaware of it.[3]



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thyroid-101">Thyroid 101</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="422" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hashimotos-report-icon-1024x422.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33934" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hashimotos-report-icon-1024x422.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hashimotos-report-icon-300x124.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hashimotos-report-icon-768x316.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hashimotos-report-icon-880x362.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hashimotos-report-icon-1180x486.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hashimotos-report-icon.png 1224w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ in the neck, just in front of the trachea, that <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/hashimotos-disease/?srsltid=AfmBOoqCPT1mfxaBMpCBrjlJJP_jB7OXbGh7CJ03xS9Njaw1R4tjhA-H" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">despite its small size plays an important role</a> in a range of physiological functions. It produces thyroid hormone, which circulates throughout the body and impacts metabolism, energy levels, and more. If the thyroid is underactive (<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hypothyroidism</a>), it doesn&#8217;t produce enough thyroid hormone. Conversely, if it&#8217;s overactive (<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperthyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20373659" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hyperthyroidism</a>), it produces too much.&nbsp;



The most common causes of both conditions are autoimmune disorders,[4] where the body&#8217;s immune system mistakenly attacks cells in the thyroid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-thyroid-diseases-difficult-to-diagnose-nbsp">What makes thyroid diseases difficult to diagnose?&nbsp;</h2>



One factor is that symptoms can be non-specific. With autoimmune hypothyroidism, for instance, <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17665-hashimotos-disease" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">symptoms</a> can include things like weight gain, low energy, joint stiffness, and depression — which can easily be mistaken as the result of stress or too much time behind a computer, for example. Plus, symptoms can come on gradually over time. Or symptoms may come and go.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sometimes-it-s-more-than-just-stress">Sometimes it&#8217;s more than just stress</h2>



A common scenario for someone with undiagnosed Hashimoto&#8217;s: you start to notice gradual but unexplained weight gain along with unshakeable fatigue, and decide to double down on diet and exercise. Yet you see little impact of these efforts. That&#8217;s such a common experience — even for those with normal thyroid function — that it might not occur to you, or your doctor, to get a blood test to rule out potential thyroid problems.



The good news is that once they&#8217;re diagnosed, both hypothyroidism and its counterpart, hyperthyroidism, are treatable, though they may demand lifelong attention to managing them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-role-of-genetics">Exploring the role of genetics</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="845" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DNA-Discovery-1024x845.png" alt="" class="wp-image-26142" style="width:224px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DNA-Discovery-1024x845.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DNA-Discovery-300x248.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DNA-Discovery-768x634.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DNA-Discovery-880x726.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DNA-Discovery-1180x974.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DNA-Discovery.png 1270w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Like other autoimmune conditions, Hashimoto&#8217;s disease and autoimmune hyperthyroidism (Graves&#8217; disease) have a strong genetic component. It&#8217;s been observed that individuals have a &#8220;set point&#8221; or characteristic level of thyroid hormone,[5] and genetics may explain up to two-thirds of the variation between individuals in this set point.[6]



So could genetics help identify people more likely to experience thyroid conditions? In recent years, research has explored how genetics can be used to predict risk for diseases like Hashimoto&#8217;s using polygenic risk scores, or PRS. Someone with the highest <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodologyAppendix_2022.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic likelihood for Hashimoto&#8217;s disease based on a PRS calculated by 23andMe</a> has a <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodologyAppendix_2022.pdf">3-6 times higher odds</a> of being diagnosed with this condition than someone with an average genetic likelihood.[7]&nbsp;



Polygenic scores also have promising applications for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32132206/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicting risk of thyroid cancer</a>, predicting <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37453101/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subtypes of thyroid cancer</a>, and even improving <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37683082/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI tools for predicting</a> which thyroid nodules are malignant.&nbsp;



And genomics can help tease apart the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38291025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological mechanisms</a> of thyroid function that underlie all these conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-as-a-tool-for-awareness-and-early-action">Genetics as a tool for awareness and early action</h2>



Genetic insights can reveal an increased susceptibility to thyroid conditions, empowering individuals to be more proactive about their health. This heightened awareness could pave the way for faster diagnoses and earlier treatments. And that translates to more years of good health.



_____________________________________________________________________



References:



[1]Doubleday AR et al. (2020). &#8220;Hyperthyroidism.&#8221; Gland Surg. 9(1):124-135. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32206604/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32206604/</a>&nbsp;



[2]Patil N et al. (2024). &#8220;Hypothyroidism&#8221;. StatPearls [Internet]. Accessed May 19, 2025, from <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519536/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519536/</a>.



[3]American Thyroid Association. &#8220;General Information/Press Room.&#8221; Accessed May 19, 2025, from <a href="https://www.thyroid.org/media-main/press-room/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.thyroid.org/media-main/press-room/</a>.&nbsp;



[4]Vanderpump MP. (2011). &#8220;The epidemiology of thyroid disease.&#8221; Br Med Bull. 99:39-51. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21893493/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21893493/</a>&nbsp;



[5]Andersen S et al. (2002). &#8220;Narrow individual variations in serum T(4) and T(3) in normal subjects: a clue to the understanding of subclinical thyroid disease.&#8221; J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 87(3):1068-72. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11889165/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11889165/</a>



[6]Panicker V. (2011). &#8220;Genetics of thyroid function and disease.&#8221; Clin Biochem Rev. 32(4):165-75. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22147956/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22147956/</a>



[7]Ashenhurst JR et al. (2025). &#8220;White Paper 23-21: A generalized method for the creation and evaluation of polygenic scores.&#8221; 23andMe. Accessed May 19, 2025, from <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodology_May2020.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodology_May2020.pdf</a>.

Today Is World Thyroid Day and Genomics Is Here for It

By Tomi Oyedeji-Olaniyan



As part of a new collaboration, the California Northstate University College of Medicine worked with 23andMe to improve their pre-existing genetics curriculum for medical students by integrating components of 23andMe’s genetics education program.&nbsp;



This enhanced curriculum addresses known gaps in genetics education in US medical schools and is based on recommendations from the Association of Professors of Human and Medical Genetics.3&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The truth is that genetics does impact all areas of medicine, and we know that now much more than we did a decade ago or five years ago,” said Noura Abul-Husn, MD, PhD, Vice President of Genomic Health at 23andMe. “I’m excited that we’re making a difference through our education initiatives, where we can offer information to healthcare providers outside of our ecosystem to learn more about genetic testing, genetic health results, and how to use them.”



While the scientific community has made significant advances in the clinical applications of genetics, many patients still do not have easy access to clinicians with genetics training. As a result, patients rely heavily on primary care physicians to address their genetic concerns.1 Despite this, <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10872981.2022.2143920#abstract">a 2022 study</a> revealed that most healthcare providers (HCPs) do not feel prepared to use genetic information in patient care or to address direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic test results.2&nbsp;



This gap in genetics education starts during medical school, where genetics is often only taught during the preclinical years and is virtually non-existent during the clinical years.3 &nbsp;The collaboration between 23andMe and California Northstate University College of Medicine aims to help address this gap in genetics education and offer medical students an expanded and more comprehensive genetics curriculum.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="512" height="222" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/California-Northstate-University.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-33327" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/California-Northstate-University.jpg 512w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/California-Northstate-University-300x130.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-curriculum">The Curriculum</h2>



As part of this new curriculum, first-year medical students studying genetics will be watching a series of micro-learning videos this fall. These educational videos result from a collaboration between<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/resources-for-healthcare"> 23andMe and Osmosis</a>, an online educational platform for students and clinicians. The videos cover topics including<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crsxdOnJg1I&amp;list=PLY33uf2n4e6MZpssct5f5416EuZxzfYUA&amp;index=2"> </a><a href="https://medical.23andme.com/videos/genetic-variation-and-disease/">genetic variation and disease</a>, <a href="https://medical.23andme.com/videos/complex-conditions-polygenic-risk-scores/">complex disease and polygenic risk scores</a>, <a href="https://medical.23andme.com/videos/using-your-patients-family-health-history-to-guide-their-care/">family health history</a>,<a href="https://medical.23andme.com/videos/interpreting-results/"> interpreting genetic test results, </a>and <a href="https://medical.23andme.com/videos/understanding-pharmacogenetics/">pharmacogenomics</a>. Upon completing the course, students will be assessed for improved knowledge content and asked for feedback on the enhanced course.&nbsp;



California Northstate University College of Medicine&#8217;s first-year medical curriculum requires students to take courses that focus on the fundamental principles of the basic sciences, such as genetics. This collaboration will equip the school’s first-year students with clinically-informed genetics education, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge to real-world clinical practice. Additionally, the medical school offers research opportunities, allowing students with an interest in exploring innovative approaches to genetics education to delve deeper, further supporting our efforts.&nbsp;



“As the future of medicine increasingly relies on genomics, it is essential for physicians to develop expertise in this field,” said Richard Isaacs, MD, FACS, Dean and Senior Vice-President of Medical Affairs and Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at California Northstate University College of Medicine. “We must equip physicians and staff with the tools and knowledge to lead in this dynamic area.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-it-essential-for-doctors-to-have-this-training">Why is it essential for doctors to have this training?</h2>



With the rise of direct-to-consumer genetic testing, it is becoming increasingly important that healthcare providers can interpret and discuss results with their patients. Genetic testing provides tools that can aid healthcare providers in personalizing care for their patients. Many clinics are also starting to adopt precision medicine — an approach, as defined by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to “tailoring disease prevention that accounts for differences in people’s genes, environments, and lifestyles.” Genetics plays a major role in helping HCPs make the right care decisions for their patients and, ultimately, improving clinical outcomes.&nbsp;



Patients are also becoming more proactive about their health. With more awareness surrounding the genetic association with diseases such as breast cancer, Alzheimer’s, and colorectal cancer, patients are choosing to undergo screening and take preventive action where possible. For many patients, this could include DTC testing, which they might then bring to their HCP. Therefore, genetics education and training remain a critical skill set for HCPs.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="512" height="246" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/DTC-Genetic-Testing-Slide.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33328" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/DTC-Genetic-Testing-Slide.png 512w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/DTC-Genetic-Testing-Slide-300x144.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-ongoing-effort-nbsp">An Ongoing Effort&nbsp;</h2>



A leading consumer genetics and research company, 23andMe, has been working to improve <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/medical-education-at-23andme">genetics education for customers and clinicians</a>. Our Personal Genome Service was the first genetic service authorized by the FDA to provide direct-to-consumer Genetic Health Risk*, Carrier Status*, and Pharmacogenetic reports**. With genetic education at the forefront of customer interaction, 23andMe continues to expand this mission into improved genetics training for HCPs.&nbsp;



In 2021, 23andMe acquired Lemonaid Health, a telehealth service focused on affordable and accessible healthcare. Since the acquisition, Lemonaid Health clinicians have also undergone a 23andMe-developed training program in genetics-informed care, and patients can schedule <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-report-consults">clinical consultations to discuss their genetic results.</a> Studies done by 23andMe have shown positive learning outcomes after clinicians have completed the training.&nbsp;



“Healthcare providers are facing a wide variety of questions about genetic testing from patients, especially about the genetic aspects of common diseases such as cancer, heart diseases, and mental illness,” explains Anne Greb, MS, CGC, Director of Genomic Health Education at 23andMe. Anne, a trained genetic counselor, has dedicated her career to teaching, improving, and developing genetics education curricula for HCPs the last three decades. “Now, there is an urgent need to modernize genetics education with engaging, scalable activities and resources so HCPs can integrate genetics into the care of their patients.”



<a href="https://medical.23andme.com/genomic-health-team/">23andMe’s Genomic Health team</a> continues to engage with physicians, genetic counselors, pharmacists, and other HCPs to provide resources for interpreting and discussing 23andMe genetic reports. These resources include <a href="https://medical.23andme.com/stories/">HCP-led educational videos</a>, <a href="https://medical.23andme.com/reports/">sample reports</a>, <a href="https://medical.23andme.com/videos/">bite-sized open-source educational videos</a>, and much more. Visit <a href="https://medical.23andme.com/">our website for healthcare professionals</a> to learn more about how 23andMe is supporting HCPs 



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-references">References:</h2>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://app.readcube.com/library/?style=Genetics%20in%20Medicine+%7B%22language%22:%22en-US%22%7D">Chou AF, et.al. Barriers and strategies to integrate medical genetics and primary care in underserved populations: a scoping review. J Community Genet. 2021;12(3):291-309.&nbsp;</a></li>



<li><a href="https://app.readcube.com/library/?style=Genetics%20in%20Medicine+%7B%22language%22:%22en-US%22%7D">French EL, et.al. Physician Perception of the Importance of Medical Genetics and Genomics in Medical Education and Clinical Practice. Med Educ Online. Vol. 28. 2023</a></li>



<li>Haspel RL, et.al. Call for improvement in medical school training in genetics: results of a national survey. Genet Med. 2021 Jun; 23(6): 1151–1157</li>



<li>Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “Precision Medicine.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, <a href="http://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics/precision-medicine">www.fda.gov/medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics/precision-medicine</a> (Accessed 16 Aug. 2024).&nbsp;</li>
</ol>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-note">Note:</h2>



*The 23andMe PGS test includes health predisposition and carrier status reports. Health predisposition reports include both reports that meet FDA requirements for genetic health risks and reports that are based on 23andMe research and have not been reviewed by the FDA. The test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva to report and interpret genetic health risks and report carrier status. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The test is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication, how much of a medication you should take, or determine any treatment. Our carrier status reports can be used to determine carrier status but cannot determine if you have two copies of any genetic variant. These carrier reports are not intended to tell you anything about your risk for developing a disease in the future, the health of your fetus, or your newborn child&#8217;s risk of developing a particular disease later in life. For certain conditions, we provide a single report that includes information on both carrier status and genetic health risk. Results should be confirmed in a clinical setting before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding each genetic health risk and carrier status report, visit <a href="http://23andme.com/test-info/">23andme.com/test-info/</a>



 **23andMe PGS Pharmacogenetics reports: The 23andMe test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 3 variants in the CYP2C19 gene, 2 variants in the DPYD gene and 1 variant in the SLCO1B1 gene in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva to report and interpret information about the processing of certain therapeutics to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. It does not describe if a person will or will not respond to a particular therapeutic. Our CYP2C19 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with metabolism of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of citalopram and clopidogrel therapy. Our SLCO1B1 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with the processing of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of simvastatin therapy. Our DPYD Pharmacogenetics report does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Results for DPYD and certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action. Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding Pharmacogenetic reports, visit <a href="http://23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/">23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/</a>

23andMe Collaborates with California Northstate University to Introduce Enhanced Genetics Curriculum for Medical Students

By Anne Greb, MS, CGC, 23andMe Lead, Medical Education
For Genetic Counselor Awareness Day this year, we want to celebrate the important role genetic counselors play in healthcare, but we also want to educate people about how genetic counselors can help them sort through their test results and family health history in making important medical decisions.
<div id="attachment_26688" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-26688" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Anne-Greb-300x259.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-26688 size-medium" width="300" height="259" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Anne-Greb-300x259.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Anne-Greb.jpg 629w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Anne Greb, MS, CGC, 23andMe Lead, Medical Education</div>
A future in which genetic and genomic health information is part of clinical care is around the corner, offering hope for more personalized medicine and disease prevention. It will be genetic counselors who help us get there. 
<h6>What We Do</h6>
The simplest description of what we do (I’m a genetic counselor) is to help people assess risk in making critical decisions about their health. These could be decisions about such things as cancer treatment, or pregnancy, or rare disease interventions. While genetics is part of the equation, it’s by no means the only thing a genetic counselor considers. We are often involved before a genetic test is done. Even helping a person decide whether testing is right for them. Often a genetic counselor is needed right at a critical decision point in a person’s life. A genetic counselor has the training and understanding to meet the gravity of those moments. 
Unfortunately, there are too few genetic counselors to meet this growing demand. Over the next decade that demand is only going to get bigger. A recent estimate projects the field is going to grow by <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/genetic-counselors.htm">more than 25 percent,</a> according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 
<h6>What&#8217;s to Come</h6>
In many ways, this big increase in demand is what we anticipated long ago with the mapping of the human genome. Now more than ever genetic discoveries and new technologies are being used to diagnose rare diseases, or help tailor pharmaceutical approaches to treatment, or identify disease risk. On top of that, the widespread use of direct-to-consumer genetic testing has encouraged more and more people to learn about their own genetic predispositions, prompting discussions with their healthcare providers. 
While we await current efforts to build the ranks of genetic counselors, it’s these healthcare providers who are left to discuss genetic issues with patients. Right now, a lack of knowledge and training for those providers is often an obstacle, so providing genetic education and resources specifically for medical professionals is vital to help ensure that genetics becomes a part of clinical care.
<h6>Medical Education</h6>
That’s part of my role as a genetic counselor and lead of medical education at 23andMe both within the company, but also externally. I’m often engaging with other healthcare professionals to figure out the best way to incorporate genetics into clinical care. 
I’m not alone. Indeed, in a recent National Society of Genetic Counselors Professional Status <a href="https://www.nsgc.org/Portals/0/Docs/Policy/PSS%20Executive%20Summary%202020%20FINAL%2005-03-20.pdf">Survey</a>, 45 percent of genetic counselors reported that education and training played a significant role in their job-related activities. While education is by no means the only thing we do as genetic counselors, it’s an important part of the work. And as a genetic counselor at 23andMe, I can see how this surge in direct-to-consumer genetic testing presents a teachable moment. We know from studies that about 30 percent of direct-to-consumer genetic testing customers ask their healthcare providers about their results.<a id="f1" href="#a1">[1]</a>,<a id="f2" href="#a2">[2]</a> This offers those providers an opportunity to engage with their patients in important discussions, and use these moments to update and discuss family health information. Primary care providers who often have long-standing relationships with patients may be best positioned to offer support when patients discover unexpected findings as a result of one of these tests, and they can refer them to genetic counselors to help navigate the next steps.
So in recognition of Genetic Counselor Awareness Day this year, let&#8217;s consider the work that genetic counselors do to support not just consumers of direct-to-consumer genetic testing, but healthcare providers as well. 
<h6 class="footnotes">References:</h6>
<footer class="footnotes"><code style="display: none;"> </code><code style="display: none;"> </code> <a id="f1" href="#a1">[1]</a> van der Wouden CH, et al. <a href="https://www.genomes2people.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Van-Der-Wouden-et-al-2016.pdf">&#8220;Consumer Perceptions of Interactions With Primary Care Providers&#8221; </a> Ann Intern Med (2016)
<footer class="footnotes"></footer>
<footer class="footnotes"></footer>
</footer>
<footer class="footnotes"><code style="display: none;"></code> <a id="f2" href="#a2">[2] </a> Vassey JL, et al. <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/scitranslmed.aaa2401">&#8220;How to know when physicians are ready for genomic medicine&#8221;</a> Science Translational Medicine (2015) </footer>

Genetic Counselor Awareness Day, A Perspective

<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fda-now-recommends-genetic-testing-before-prescribing-specific-chemotherapy-medications">FDA Now Recommends Genetic Testing Before Prescribing Specific Chemotherapy Medications</h5>



For years, patient advocates have been calling for stronger safeguards against preventable toxicity from chemotherapy. Last week, the FDA took a major step forward, updating the label for a drug called <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699003.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capecitabine</a> to explicitly recommend testing for variants in the DPYD gene before starting treatment. This is more than just a label change—it&#8217;s a long-awaited acknowledgment that genetics matter when it comes to patient safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is DPYD?</h2>



The <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/dpyd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DPYD gene</a> provides instructions for making an enzyme called DPD (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase), which helps the body break down certain chemotherapy drugs like capecitabine and <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682708.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5-fluorouracil</a>. These medications are commonly used to treat breast, colorectal, and other cancers. People with certain changes in this gene may not process these drugs properly, causing the drugs to build up in the body and, in some cases, leading to severe or even life-threatening <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/dihydropyrimidine-dehydrogenase-deficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reactions</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="508" height="531" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34304" style="width:126px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle.png 508w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle-287x300.png 287w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 508px) 100vw, 508px" /></figure>



These reactions can include painful mouth sores, severe diarrhea, low white blood cell counts, and nerve problems. <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/dihydropyrimidine-dehydrogenase-deficiency/#frequency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Up to 8%</a> of people have a variant in the DPYD gene that affects how well they process these medications. Sadly, some patients with DPYD variants have died after receiving these drugs. Such experiences have fueled years of advocacy calling for genetic testing before treatment, not after. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-change-in-the-recommendations">A change in the recommendations</h2>



Until now, the FDA advised doctors they could &#8220;consider testing&#8221; patients before giving capecitabine or similar drugs. The <a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/020896s052lbl.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new label</a> goes much further, adding a warning that says, &#8220;serious adverse reactions or death may occur in patients with complete DPD deficiency&#8221; and telling doctors to test for DPYD variants before prescribing the medication. (Experts predict a similar change to the 5-fluorouracil drug label soon.) It&#8217;s a major win for patient safety and for the <a href="https://test4dpd.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advocacy groups</a> who have pushed tirelessly for this change. Organizations that have long advocated for universal DPYD testing hope this update will encourage hospitals and cancer centers across the U.S. to make pretreatment genetic testing standard care.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="790" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-790x1024.png" alt="23andMe mobile pharmacogenomics" class="wp-image-28527" style="width:256px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-790x1024.png 790w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-231x300.png 231w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-768x996.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-679x880.png 679w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-910x1180.png 910w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home.png 1583w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 790px) 100vw, 790px" /></figure>



We share the belief that genetic insights can empower individuals and help improve outcomes. The 23andMe® <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/dpyd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DPYD Drug Metabolism Pharmacogenetics report</a>*, available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members, provides information about two variants associated with reduced DPD enzyme activity. While this report isn&#8217;t a substitute for clinical testing, it can help people learn whether they carry certain DPYD variants and start a conversation with their healthcare provider. 



The FDA&#8217;s new label is an important step toward safer, more personalized cancer treatment and a long-awaited victory for the patients and advocates who made their voices heard.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



 * 23andMe PGS Pharmacogenetics reports: The 23andMe test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 3 variants in the CYP2C19 gene, 2 variants in the DPYD gene and 1 variant in the SLCO1B1 gene in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting information about the processing of certain therapeutics to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. It does not describe if a person will or will not respond to a particular therapeutic. Our CYP2C19 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with metabolism of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of citalopram and clopidogrel therapy. Our SLCO1B1 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with the processing of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of simvastatin therapy. Our DPYD Pharmacogenetics report does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Results for DPYD and certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action. Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding Pharmacogenetic reports, visit <a href="http://23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/</a>

A Big Step Forward for Patient Safety

Late in the first quarter in only his third game this season, one professional football team’s star edge-rusher limped off the field, gesturing to his trainers with his thumb down. Apparently, he already knew what he&#8217;d find out a short time later with an MRI: he&#8217;d again torn his ACL, the anterior cruciate ligament.



While a hard tackle or awkward fall can tear an ACL, some people may be more prone to an ACL tear than others, and their genetics may explain why.



A new 23andMe polygenic risk score (PRS) report sheds light on that genetic connection. The report examines how a person&#8217;s genetics may impact their likelihood of experiencing an ACL tear, an injury particularly common among those involved in high-impact sports.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-genetics-may-influence-acl-tear-risk">How Genetics May Influence ACL Tear Risk</h2>



First, it&#8217;s important to note that your genetics is only one part of the story – many other factors can influence the risk of an ACL tear. 



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="306" height="126" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ACL-tear-PRS-Hero.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34316" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ACL-tear-PRS-Hero.png 306w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ACL-tear-PRS-Hero-300x124.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 306px) 100vw, 306px" /></figure>



Tears typically occur when the knee twists or extends beyond its normal range, often seen in sports that involve jumping and sudden stops, pivots, or changes in direction. That might be in sports such as football, soccer, basketball, or downhill skiing. The ACL is the most commonly injured ligament in the knee.&nbsp;&nbsp;



We also know that ACL tears are more common in female athletes. However, because more males participate in high-risk sports, the total number of ACL tears may actually be higher in males. They are also more likely in people with a family history of an ACL injury or a personal history of an ACL tear. Indeed, genetics plays an important role, with one 2020 sports medicine journal study estimating the <a href="https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/55/7/385" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic contribution to an ACL tear at approximately 69 percent</a>. 



While the exact biological mechanism involved is not yet known, the genetic associations do offer some hints. Among the many genetic variants associated with ACL tears are variants in or near genes involved in the formation of collagen, a building block for ligaments. Scientists have discovered other variants linked to tears, but most of those associations are inconclusive, and more research is needed.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-23andme-s-new-acl-tear-prs-report">23andMe&#8217;s New ACL Tear PRS Report</h2>



Knowing how genetics influences the risk for an ACL tear can empower athletes, who are at the highest risk, train smarter and work toward preventing them.&nbsp;



To create the new ACL Tear PRS Report* 23andMe scientists analyzed data from people who consented to participate in research to identify thousands of variants associated with ACL tears. The 23andMe scientists then created a genetic model that incorporated those variants to calculate the genetic likelihood of an ACL tear.



This PRS report, like other 23andMe PRS reports, is research-based and not validated for medical diagnostic use; it may have limitations for people with mixed or less-studied ancestries and does not account for every possible factor influencing ACL health. In addition, polygenic risk scores integrate many common variants, but they do not account for rare genetic variants or lifestyle factors that can heavily impact risk.&nbsp;



For individuals with an elevated genetic or family risk, creating a personalized prevention plan and scheduling regular check-ins with sports medicine professionals are great ways to keep knees healthy.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-the-risk-of-acl-tears">Mitigating the Risk of ACL Tears</h2>



Whether you’re a pro athlete or not, and especially if you’ve already had an ACL tear before, proper training and technique&nbsp; are simple ways to help lower the likelihood of injury.



Here are a few things you can do to help lower the risk of an ACL tear:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Build muscle strength in the hamstrings, and core to stabilize the knee.</li>



<li>Maintain proper technique for movements such as jumping, pivoting, and squatting — like landing on the balls of your feet with knees bent and keeping knees aligned over your toes.</li>



<li>Warm up and cool down before and after physical activity to increase flexibility.</li>



<li>Wear supportive, activity-appropriate footwear for correct alignment.</li>



<li>Consulting with physical therapists or trainers for form and strength assessments can further reduce the risk, regardless of one&#8217;s genetic background.</li>
</ul>



We continue to learn about the role genetics plays in sports-related injuries, including ACL tears, but genetics is just one factor.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn More</h2>



<a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members can view this report with their other Wellness reports.



<a href="https://you.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sign in</a> to learn more about what 23andMe&#8217;s ACL Tear PRS can tell you. 



* The 23andMe ACL Tear PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 6,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of experiencing an ACL tear. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The ACL Tear PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment.

Genetics May Explain Why Some Athletes Are More Prone to ACL Tears

As many as one in 10 women have endometriosis, but diagnosing it can take up to a decade or more. Dive into the science, and learn a bit about a new 23andMe Endometriosis report that looks at the genetic likelihood of developing this painful condition.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="612" height="252" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/endometriosis_hero-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34227" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/endometriosis_hero-1.jpg 612w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/endometriosis_hero-1-300x124.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px" /></figure>



Have you ever been told your debilitating period pain is &#8220;normal&#8221;? Do you find yourself planning your life around your cycle, canceling plans, or missing work or school due to pain, heavy bleeding, or exhaustion? If so, you&#8217;re not alone; these symptoms could point to endometriosis, a common, yet often misunderstood, condition.



For those with endometriosis, tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other places, like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even the bowel and bladder. This can lead to severe pain, heavy periods, and in some cases, may make it harder to become pregnant (between 30–50% of women with endometriosis experience infertility).



If this sounds familiar, it’s important to know that your pain is real and more common than many people think. Endometriosis affects as many as 10% of women in the U.S. Despite this, the journey to a diagnosis can be frustratingly long, sometimes <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39373298/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">taking up to 12 years</a>. This delay often happens because symptoms are dismissed as &#8220;just a bad period.&#8221;



To support awareness and help people understand their genetic predisposition to endometriosis, we’ve launched the new Endometriosis* report for female <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Total Health</a>™ members.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-causes-endometriosis">What causes endometriosis?</h2>



While the exact cause isn&#8217;t known, several factors can increase your likelihood of developing endometriosis:



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="612" height="720" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Group-125628.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34211" style="width:259px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Group-125628.png 612w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Group-125628-255x300.png 255w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px" /></figure>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Age: It most often affects menstruating people and is frequently diagnosed in the 30s and 40s.</li>



<li>Family history: Having a family member with endometriosis increases risk.</li>



<li>Reproductive history: Starting menstruation at a young age, experiencing menopause later in life, and having frequent or heavy periods (short cycles or bleeding lasting more than 7 days) can all increase chances of developing the condition.</li>
</ul>



These factors are associated with a higher risk. On the other hand, having been pregnant or breastfeeding may reduce risk.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-genetic-connection">The genetic connection</h3>



Endometriosis is what’s known as a <a href="https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Polygenic-Trait" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polygenic</a> condition — meaning that many different genetic variants in many different genes can influence a person’s chances of developing it. In fact, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26209831/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research suggests</a> that genetics may explain nearly half of the differences in who develops endometriosis across a population.



In 2023, 23andMe collaborated with researchers at Oxford in what was at the time the largest study on <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/largest-genetic-study-to-date-links-endometriosis-with-chronic-pain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endometriosis and its association with chronic pain</a>. Now, to further understand the genetics of this condition, researchers at 23andMe looked at genetic and self-reported data from more than 1.5 million consented research participants. Using this information, they created a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) — a model that considers thousands of genetic variants to estimate a person’s likelihood of developing endometriosis.



However, this model did not perform as accurately for 23andMe customers with Black or African American ancestry. Due to this limitation, we cannot provide a result for the Endometriosis report to those customers at this time. This is an important reminder that genetics research has historically underrepresented many communities. With continued research and broader participation, we hope to improve this work and reduce these disparities in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do-about-it">What you can do about it</h2>



While the road to getting a diagnosis and managing endometriosis can be long and frustrating, there are proactive steps you can take on your journey to getting answers and feeling better.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advocate-for-yourself">Advocate for yourself</h3>



Track Your Symptoms. Before you see a doctor, consider starting a symptom diary. Being specific can make a big difference. Every day, note:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pain: On a scale of 1–10, where is the pain, and what does it feel like (sharp, dull, cramping)?</li>



<li>Timing: When during your cycle do you feel symptoms? (During your period, during ovulation, all month long?)</li>



<li>Bleeding: How heavy is your flow? Are you passing clots?</li>



<li>Other Symptoms: Note any bloating, painful bowel movements, pain with sex, or fatigue.</li>



<li>Impact: How do these symptoms affect your daily life? (e.g., &#8220;Missed two days of work,&#8221; &#8220;Couldn&#8217;t exercise,&#8221; &#8220;Had to leave the party early.&#8221;)</li>
</ul>



Connect with a Doctor. Armed with your symptom diary, make an appointment with a healthcare provider.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Be clear and confident. Say, &#8220;I am concerned I might have endometriosis because of these specific symptoms.&#8221;</li>



<li>Don&#8217;t be afraid to ask questions. &#8220;What are the next steps for diagnosis?&#8221; or &#8220;Could we explore treatment options for my pain now?&#8221;</li>



<li>If you feel dismissed, get a second opinion. Look for a gynecologist who specializes in endometriosis or pelvic pain.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manage-symptoms">Manage symptoms</h3>



There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but experts agree that certain lifestyle habits can make a difference:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Exercise: Activities like yoga can improve blood flow, relax muscles, and reduce pain.</li>



<li>Relaxation and self-care: Rest, warmth on the lower stomach (like a heating pad, warm water bottle, or bath), and gentle movement can help ease discomfort.</li>
</ul>



Medical options may include medications to manage pain and hormone levels, pelvic floor physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Because endometriosis tissue can respond to estrogen, symptoms may improve after menopause, when estrogen levels remain consistently low.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-take-the-next-steps">Take the next steps</h2>



Endometriosis pain is not an exaggeration, and it deserves to be taken seriously. Seeking answers is the first and most powerful step toward managing your health and reclaiming your quality of life.



Ready to learn more about your health and genetics and take the next step in your journey? Learn more about <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a> or <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Total Health</a> memberships.



Already part of 23andMe? <a href="https://you.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sign in</a> to view this report with your other Health Predisposition reports or upgrade 23andMe+ Premium or Total Health memberships.



* The 23andMe Endometriosis PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 13,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of developing endometriosis. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history, and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Endometriosis PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment. 



NOTE: Within this blog post, we use the words &#8220;women&#8221; and &#8220;female&#8221; to refer to people whose sex assigned at birth is female. However, we recognize that not everyone who experiences endometriosis will identify as female, and being categorized by birth sex may be an uncomfortable experience for some people. We do not mean to delegitimize anyone’s gender identity. Learn more about why we made this decision in this <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010964373-How-23andMe-Uses-Your-Genetic-Sex-Birth-Sex-and-Gender" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help article</a>.

Could Your Painful Periods Be Endometriosis? Here’s What You Should Know

This week, 23andMe added a new genetic report to help us all be more aware of an often overlooked contributor to health disparities.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="763" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1024x763.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34101" style="width:309px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1024x763.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-300x224.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-768x572.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-880x656.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1180x879.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic.png 1224w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35994632/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nearly 70%</a> of Black and African Americans have two copies of a variant in the Duffy antigen gene that can cause them to have white blood cell (WBC) counts that are lower than most standard reference ranges.&nbsp;



People who have this genotype — called Duffy null status — do not have an increased risk for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32959868/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infection</a> or <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39825822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other health problems</a>. But they may be flagged incorrectly as having abnormally low WBC counts, which can negatively impact the healthcare they receive.&nbsp;



&#8220;I&#8217;ve seen patients that are told that they might have cancer, go through painful bone marrow biopsies, miss out on joining clinical trials, or have critical medications like chemotherapy discontinued simply because their white blood cell counts were interpreted without understanding their Duffy status,&#8221; says Dr. Lauren Merz, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology at the University of Michigan, who is leading efforts to raise awareness about Duffy null status and develop Duffy null-specific reference ranges and who provided expert feedback on 23andMe&#8217;s new report.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-a-one-size-fits-all-blood-test-falls-short">When a one-size-fits-all blood test falls short</h2>



When we have our blood drawn, testing labs use reference ranges to determine whether our results fall in the range considered &#8220;normal&#8221; or are too high or too low, which can flag the need for clinical follow-up. One common blood test measures neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections.



Most neutrophil reference ranges are defined based on populations where Duffy null status is rare, such as people with European or Asian genetic ancestry. And blood testing labs don&#8217;t usually take into account Duffy status. As a result, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35994632/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nearly 25%</a> of healthy Black and African Americans with Duffy null status — and more than 15% of all Black and African Americans — have neutrophil counts below the standard reference range.



These individuals may be misdiagnosed with neutropenia (low neutrophil counts), which can lead to a number of downstream harms, including <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34180972/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unnecessary specialty referrals and follow-up tests</a> like bone marrow biopsies; <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exclusion from clinical trials</a> (because many trials require a minimum number of neutrophils that is higher than the normal range for people with the Duffy null genotype); and delayed or reduced access to medications for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34645395/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health conditions</a>, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35724382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autoimmune disorders</a>. (See the sidebar at the bottom for more details.)



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-the-duffy-antigen-and-how-does-it-impact-white-blood-cells">What is the Duffy antigen, and how does it impact white blood cells?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="87" height="138" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/research.b57972a5e8fa.svg" alt="an icon representing research" class="wp-image-29284" style="width:117px;height:auto"/></figure>



The Duffy antigen is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells and certain other cells in the body. People with two copies of a specific <a href="https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/duffy-null-associated-neutrophil-count" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic variant in the ACKR1 (Duffy antigen) gene</a> don&#8217;t express this protein on their red blood cells — giving rise to the name &#8220;Duffy null.&#8221;



Being Duffy null can also impact infection-fighting white blood cells called neutrophils. People who are Duffy null tend to have naturally lower levels of circulating neutrophils in the peripheral blood — <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37338884/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">about 40% lower, on average</a>. But they don&#8217;t have an increased risk for infection, because the total number of neutrophils in their bodies remains the same. (Their neutrophils just move from the blood into other tissues like the spleen more easily.)



In the past, healthy people with low neutrophil counts were said to have &#8220;benign ethnic neutropenia,&#8221; because the Duffy null variant is more common in certain populations. But the preferred name is now <a href="https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/duffy-null-associated-neutrophil-count" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duffy null-associated neutrophil count (DANC)</a>, as this refers to the biological driver of Duffy status rather than the social construct of race or ethnicity — and highlights that lower neutrophil counts are normal for people who are Duffy null.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-duffy-null-status-associated-with-any-health-conditions">Is Duffy null status associated with any health conditions?</h2>



To date, there is no robust evidence that people with Duffy null status are at increased risk for any health conditions. In fact, a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39825822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent, large phenome-wide association study (PheWAS)</a> — which looked for potential associations between the Duffy null variant and 1,400 possible health conditions using the National Institutes of Health&#8217;s All of Us initiative and other cohorts — did not report any associations with disease. However, this is an active area of research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-duffy-null-status-most-common-in-certain-populations">Why is Duffy null status most common in certain populations?</h2>



Although anyone can have Duffy null status, it is most common among people with African or Middle Eastern ancestry. In the U.S., two-thirds of people who identify as Black or African American have the Duffy null genotype, which means they do not express the Duffy antigen on their red blood cells.&nbsp;



Scientists believe this variant became common in certain populations because it <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21468018/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">helps protect against Plasmodium vivax</a>, a malaria parasite that relies on the Duffy antigen to infect red blood cells. (The variant does not protect against other types of malaria.) Over generations, people in regions where this malaria parasite was widespread were more likely to inherit this protective variant, and it remains common today in people with ancestry from some malaria-endemic regions.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="934" height="597" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34139" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C.png 934w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-300x192.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-768x491.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-880x562.png 880w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 934px) 100vw, 934px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">23andMe data also show that the Duffy null genetic variant is most common in people with ancestry from parts of the world where Plasmodium vivax malaria is common.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-raising-awareness">The importance of raising awareness</h2>



Last year, the American Society of Hematology (ASH) launched the <a href="https://www.hematology.org/education/danc/danc-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) by Duffy Status Project</a>, aimed at creating specific neutrophil reference ranges for people with the Duffy null genotype and advocating for broader awareness and testing.



&#8220;The Duffy null genotype is a perfect example of how well-meaning systems can fall short when they don&#8217;t reflect the full diversity of the people they serve,&#8221; says Dr. Merz. &#8220;Raising awareness — among both clinicians and patients — is essential to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure more equitable and personalized care.&#8221;



You can become your own advocate by learning about your Duffy status and sharing that information with your doctor.&nbsp;



The White Blood Cell Count (Duffy Antigen-Related) report is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium™ members</a> with their other Wellness reports.



<div style="float: left; text-align: justified; width: 700px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 5px;">
 
<h3>A deeper dive: How lack of awareness of Duffy null status can lead to downstream harm</h3>


Although Duffy null status does not usually cause health problems, harms can arise when Duffy null individuals are misdiagnosed with abnormally low neutrophil counts. These harms can include:
<ul>
<li>
Unnecessary follow-up testing. In general, low neutrophil counts can prompt concern from doctors, because they can be caused by blood cancers like leukemia. Follow-up testing involves a bone marrow biopsy, which is an invasive and sometimes painful test. 
 Because their neutrophil counts may be naturally lower than standard reference ranges, people with Duffy null status are much more likely to receive <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34180972/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unnecessary bone marrow biopsies</a>. And one study reported that Duffy null status was the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37419240/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most common reason</a> for children to be referred to a children&#8217;s hospital for low neutrophil counts.
</li>
 
<li>
Exclusion from clinical trials. Many chemotherapy drugs reduce WBC production, which can make patients more susceptible to infections. As a result, most cancer clinical trials require patients to have a minimum neutrophil count before starting the trial, to help keep patients safe. 
 But a recent study found that more than 75% of cancer clinical trials have neutrophil thresholds that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exclude some people with Duffy null status</a>. Researchers have suggested these exclusion criteria may be one reason that Black Americans are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37477920/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">less likely to be included in cancer clinical trials</a>.
</li>
 
<li>
Delayed or reduced access to medications. Because some medications reduce WBC production, patients often have their neutrophils counted before and during treatment, so that their clinicians can adjust the dose, delay the start of treatment, or discontinue medications if counts become too low. 
 Because people with Duffy null status tend to have lower starting neutrophil counts, they may experience reduced or delayed access to important medications for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34645395/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health conditions</a>, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35724382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autoimmune disorders</a>, or inappropriate dose adjustments. Because chemotherapy dose often increases the chance of survival, some scientists think that inappropriate chemotherapy dosing related to Duffy null status could help explain, in part, why <a href="https://www.cancer.org/about-us/what-we-do/health-equity/cancer-disparities-in-the-black-community.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breast cancer mortality is higher in Black than white Americans</a>.
</li>
</ul>

</div>

The Duffy Antigen Gene: A Clue Behind White Blood Cell Differences

When we think about menopause, many of us imagine it’s something to worry about later. But understanding menopause—especially your genetic predisposition for early menopause—can actually help you stay ahead of your health today. Whether menopause isn&#8217;t on your radar or you&#8217;re already navigating the transition, being informed is a powerful way to care for your future (and current!) well-being.



Natural menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles and happens when you&#8217;ve gone 12 months without a period. Most people experience it between ages 45 and 55, but it&#8217;s considered early if it happens before age 45.



Early menopause can be triggered by medical treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery that removes the ovaries, or can occur naturally influenced by your genetics. That’s why understanding your genetic risk is so important. To support this, we’ve launched the new Early Menopause* report for female <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members, offering insights into your genetic predisposition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-you-should-care-now">Why You Should Care Now</h2>



Even though early menopause isn’t something you can always predict or prevent, there are things you can do to stay informed and in control:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Learn About Your Genetic Predisposition. Finding out if your genetics predispose you to experiencing menopause earlier can help you make more informed decisions before symptoms start.</li>



<li>Know Your Family History. Talk to your mom, aunts, or older sisters about when they started menopause. If it happened early for them, it might be worth discussing with your doctor sooner than later.</li>



<li>Preserve Your Fertility (If That’s a Goal). If you’re concerned about future fertility, it’s okay to start that conversation early. Options like egg freezing can offer peace of mind and flexibility.</li>



<li>Support Your Overall Health. Quit smoking, if you smoke—it&#8217;s linked to an increased risk of early menopause. Maintain a healthy weight, especially avoiding being underweight, which can increase your risk. And eat a healthy diet: think whole grains, leafy greens, lean proteins, and healthy fats like avocado or olive oil. </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-perimenopause-the-lead-up-to-menopause">Understanding Perimenopause: The Lead-Up to Menopause</h2>



Perimenopause is the transition period that starts 2–10 years before menopause. Symptoms of perimenopause can be subtle or non-specific, and many people don&#8217;t expect symptoms to appear until later in their lives. Knowing your genetic predisposition can help you be aware of when you might start experiencing symptoms.&nbsp;



Here&#8217;s what to look out for:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Irregular or missed periods</li>



<li>Hot flashes or night sweats</li>



<li>Trouble sleeping</li>



<li>Mood changes or irritability</li>



<li>Vaginal dryness or lower libido</li>
</ul>



Keep a symptom tracker or use a health app to log your menstrual cycle, mood changes, and physical symptoms. Noticing patterns early can help you and your healthcare provider take action before symptoms intensify.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-already-in-menopause-or-experiencing-it-early-here-s-what-you-can-do-now">Already in Menopause or Experiencing It Early? Here’s What You Can Do Now</h2>



If you’ve already entered menopause (early or otherwise), you’re not alone—and there are plenty of tools and strategies to help you feel your best.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Hormone therapy (MHT/HRT) may ease symptoms like hot flashes and protect heart and bone health. Talk to your provider to see if it’s a good fit for you.</li>



<li>Lifestyle changes like stress reduction, yoga, or meditation can help with emotional ups and downs.</li>



<li>Moisturizers or vaginal estrogen can help with dryness and intimacy discomfort.</li>



<li>Emotional Support: Menopause can be emotional—especially if it happens early or unexpectedly. Connecting with friends and support groups, a therapist or counselor, or online communities or forums can help you feel heard and supported.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-your-health-for-the-long-haul">Protecting Your Health for the Long Haul</h3>



After menopause, your body produces less estrogen and progesterone, which can affect your bones, heart, and brain. But there’s plenty you can do to stay strong and vibrant:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Get moving: Weight-bearing exercise (like walking, dancing, or lifting light weights) keeps bones strong.</li>



<li>Eat for your heart: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats, supports long-term health.</li>



<li>Get your calcium and vitamin D: These vitamins are especially important for your bones post-menopause.</li>



<li>Check in with your doctor: Schedule annual physicals and get any recommended scans or checks. If considering MHT, experts recommend starting it before age 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset to get the most benefit.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-be-your-own-health-advocate">Be Your Own Health Advocate</h2>



Menopause doesn’t have to be a mystery—or something to fear. Whether you&#8217;re years away, noticing symptoms now, or already postmenopausal, knowledge is power. Staying connected to your body, prioritizing your mental and physical health, and talking to trusted healthcare providers can make all the difference.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="612" height="252" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/early-menopause.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34008" style="width:381px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/early-menopause.png 612w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/early-menopause-300x124.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px" /></figure>



Your wellness journey is yours—and you deserve to feel supported, strong, and informed every step of the way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn more</h2>



Eligible 23andMe members can view this report with their other Health Predisposition reports.



Not a 23andMe+ Premium member yet? Learn more about what 23andMe has to offer <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-text-color has-foreground-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-foreground-background-color has-background"/>



NOTE: Within this blog post, we use the word “female” to refer to people whose birth sex is female. However, we recognize that not everyone who experiences menopause will identify as female and being categorized by birth sex may be an uncomfortable experience for some people. We do not mean to delegitimize anyone’s gender identity. Learn more about why we made this decision in this <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010964373-How-23andMe-Uses-Your-Genetic-Sex-Birth-Sex-and-Gender" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help article</a>.



* The 23andMe Early Menopause PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 2,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of developing early menopause. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Early Menopause PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment.

Menopause Isn’t Just for “Later” – What You Should Know Now

By Jalen Robinson



Personalized medicine is increasingly becoming recognized as a necessary evolution of the standard of care. One key aspect of this shift is a dual understanding: that medical care based on race, ethnicity, or outward appearance is inaccurate and can lead to harm, and at the same time knowledge of genetic, cultural, and environmental factors together provide a more nuanced and complete picture of a person&#8217;s health risks and potential intervention strategies.



In this article, we explore a few health conditions—uterine fibroids, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), gestational diabetes, and atrial fibrillation—that have meaningful connections with ancestry, environment, or cultural factors. We also examine diseases such as G6PD deficiency and Tay-Sachs disease—conditions that are primarily genetic and therefore closely linked to genetic ancestry. By understanding different ways in which their unique background might influence their health, individuals and their healthcare providers can make more informed health decisions for themselves and their families.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uterine-fibroids-an-african-connection">Uterine Fibroids: An African Connection</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="494" height="203" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Uterine_Fibroids_PRS_Hero-edited.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33976" style="width:380px" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Uterine_Fibroids_PRS_Hero-edited.png 494w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Uterine_Fibroids_PRS_Hero-edited-300x123.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 494px) 100vw, 494px" /></figure>



Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the wall of the uterus. These growths can vary in size, ranging from small, undetectable nodules to large masses that distort the uterus. Symptoms of fibroids include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, and complications with fertility and pregnancy. Risk factors include race and ethnicity, age, family history, hormonal factors, obesity, diet, environmental toxins, and stress.



While many women may experience fibroids at some point in their lives, this condition affects women with African ancestry more commonly and severely. African American women have a<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874080/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> three-times higher risk</a> of developing fibroids than women from other groups. Black women are also more likely to be diagnosed at younger ages, experience more severe symptoms such as infertility and pregnancy loss, and face worse outcomes, including higher rates of hospitalization. Although there are likely many contributing factors, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5330388/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vitamin D deficiency may play a role</a>: this nutrient helps regulate how cells grow and divide, but people with darker skin produce less vitamin D from sunlight.



Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting processed foods and red meat, and managing stress are beneficial in reducing risk for uterine fibroids, but there are also specific proactive steps women can take. These include<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11730732/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> reducing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals</a> like those found in personal care products and hair relaxers, and ensuring adequate levels of vitamin D in their diet. As with any health condition, regular medical check-ups are important for early detection and management of fibroids and for maintaining overall reproductive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-liver-disease-an-indigenous-american-connection">Liver Disease: An Indigenous American Connection</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="480" height="177" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/FattyLiver_PRS_Hero.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33971" style="width:380px" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/FattyLiver_PRS_Hero.png 480w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/FattyLiver_PRS_Hero-300x111.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></figure>



Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD, also known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide, marked by excess fat in the liver unrelated to alcohol use. While often silent, it can progress to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. MASLD is strongly linked to metabolic syndrome—a group of conditions including a large waist circumference, high blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels.



Indigenous peoples of the Americas are disproportionately affected by MASLD and MASH. This elevated risk is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. A genetic variant in the PNPLA3 gene, known as I148M, has been linked to a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6465959/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher risk of developing MASLD</a>, and is particularly common in Indigenous populations and regions with high proportions of Indigenous American ancestry. Indigenous communities also report higher rates of metabolic syndrome compared to other groups.



<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7918141/#sec3-ijerph-18-01821" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historically</a>, many Indigenous societies had diets and lifestyles that may have protected against metabolic diseases. These societies typically consumed diets high in fiber, with a wide variety of seasonal plant-based foods, and maintained regular physical activity through subsistence living. However, the rapid shift away from these traditional patterns, especially in North America—driven by violent colonization, forced displacement, and systemic marginalization—has created a potential mismatch between genetic predispositions and modern environments.&nbsp;



Addressing the risk of MASLD today may benefit from restoring access to healthy foods, revitalizing traditional food systems, and encouraging physical activity in ways that respect Indigenous culture. Additionally, ensuring culturally respectful, community-led healthcare is essential for addressing MASLD risk and improving long-term outcomes for Indigenous populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gestational Diabetes: An Asian Connection</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="480" height="220" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gestational_Diabetes_PRS_Hero.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33972" style="width:380px" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gestational_Diabetes_PRS_Hero.png 480w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gestational_Diabetes_PRS_Hero-300x138.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></figure>



Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy when the body cannot produce or effectively use enough insulin. This leads to elevated blood glucose levels, which increases the chances of preeclampsia (dangerously high blood pressure), preterm birth, and complications during labor. People who experience GDM are also at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, while their children are more likely to develop obesity and metabolic disorders.



Though GDM affects pregnancies globally, <a href="https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacasi.2024.07.010" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rates of GDM are highest</a> in individuals of East and South Asian descent, despite generally lower BMI. This heightened risk may be linked to both <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9683781/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes</a> as well as greater insulin resistance and a tendency to store fat in the abdomen (also known as visceral fat, associated with cardiometabolic disease) even at lower BMIs. Dietary patterns may compound these risks, and limited access to healthcare and low awareness of GDM may further contribute to poorer outcomes in some communities.



Prioritizing a diet high in whole grains and vegetables, avoiding refined carbohydrates and sugar, and incorporating regular physical activity—even modest forms like daily walking or yoga—can significantly improve the body&#8217;s ability to control blood sugar. Awareness and early screening are also important, especially given the higher rates of GDM even among those with lower BMIs.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Atrial Fibrillation:&nbsp; A European Connection</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="480" height="208" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AFib_PRS_Hero.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33973" style="width:380px" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AFib_PRS_Hero.png 480w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AFib_PRS_Hero-300x130.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /></figure>



Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common heart rhythm disorder, marked by an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can reduce blood flow and increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications. Symptoms may include palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness, though some people remain asymptomatic. <a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atrial-fibrillation/causes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AFib risk rises</a> with age, and conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and excessive alcohol use are major contributors.



In multiple studies, AFib shows the <a href="https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2021.04.110" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">highest prevalence</a> in White populations, <a href="https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-022-14403-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scandinavian countries</a>, and countries with high proportions of European ancestry. The higher prevalence does not appear to be explained by differences in lifestyle risk factors or by differences in diagnosis rates. Although the <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circep.114.001909" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic variants</a> identified to date are not especially frequent in European populations compared to other groups, one intriguing study has shown an association between AFib risk and <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circulationaha.110.958306" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">degree of European genetic ancestry</a>. Additionally, individuals with Northern European ancestry tend to be <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3480734/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">taller on average</a>, and <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/joim.12717" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increased height and body size</a> are associated with a greater risk of AFib, perhaps due to greater load on the heart. 



To help mitigate the risk of atrial fibrillation, there are several <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/treatment-and-prevention-of-atrial-fibrillation/prevention-strategies-for-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strategies</a> people can adopt. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in moderate physical activity, managing other health conditions, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding smoking are all important. Since rates of AFib remain high even in Scandinavian countries known for healthy lifestyles, individuals with known genetic risk factors or a family history of AFib should consider regular heart rhythm monitoring and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized screening.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Genetic Ancestry and Health</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="966" height="966" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33974" style="width:200px" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe.png 966w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe-300x300.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe-150x150.png 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe-768x768.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe-880x880.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe-271x271.png 271w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe-372x372.png 372w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/haplogroup-globe-574x574.png 574w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 966px) 100vw, 966px" /></figure>



Some health conditions are primarily genetic, meaning they are caused by inherited changes in specific genes rather than lifestyle or environmental factors. Because these variations are passed down through families, the risk of developing or carrying certain genetic disorders can vary significantly depending on one’s ancestry. These inherited conditions often reflect patterns shaped over thousands of years by human migration, geographic isolation, and natural selection—making genetic ancestry a powerful lens through which to understand personal health risks.



Take <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470315/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency</a>, for example. This inherited condition affects how red blood cells function, potentially leading to fatigue, jaundice, or anemia—especially when triggered by certain foods, medications, or infections. G6PD deficiency is particularly common in people of African, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Southeast Asian descent, with <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3496665/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prevalence rates</a> as high as 25% in some regions. Just like sickle cell trait, the high frequency of G6PD deficiency is thought to stem from a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6171532/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic advantage</a>: people who carry a G6PD variant are more resistant to certain forms of malaria, an infectious disease that historically plagued these areas. Similarly, <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/tay-sachs-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tay-Sachs disease</a> is a rare but serious neurodegenerative disorder that is more prevalent in Ashkenazi Jewish, French Canadian, and Cajun populations. This is largely due to what geneticists call a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1216062/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">founder effect</a>, where a small ancestral group passes on a limited set of genes—some of which may carry disease-causing variants.



In communities where certain genetic risks are more common, genetic screening and counseling have already made a major <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11216898/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact</a>. However, understanding your genetic ancestry—rather than making assumptions based on appearance, social identity, or cultural heritage—is what really matters for identifying these inherited health risks. As our knowledge and the cost of mapping genetic ancestry and health predispositions continues to improve, so does our potential to address inherited health risks in more personalized and proactive ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Personalizing Health</h2>



Our DNA plays a key role in health, offering insights into inherited traits and potential risks. Together with cultural background and lived experiences, these factors all shape our health in ways unique to each of us. Understanding both your genetic ancestry and cultural context can support proactive care through early screenings, personalized lifestyle choices, and more informed conversations with healthcare providers. As populations grow more diverse, moving beyond outdated assumptions based on race and focusing on the full picture—biology, ancestry, and culture—can help improve care and reduce health disparities.



<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/working-on-23andmes-african-american-genetic-groups-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Learn more about Jalen Robinson, a student at Morehouse School of Medicine and former Research Diversity intern at 23andMe, who helped develop our African American Genetic Groups</a>

Connecting Health and Ancestry: A Look at Genetics and Cultural Factors

For decades severe morning sickness was misunderstood. Many believed it was simply a normal part of the hormonal shifts during pregnancy. But those who experience it know it is anything but normal. The relentless nausea, dehydration, and in some cases, hospitalization is well beyond the typical morning sickness experienced during most pregnancies.



This mismatch led to stigma, a frustrating lack of medical support, and a lack of research into causes and treatments.&nbsp;



23andMe&#8217;s research platform is helping to change this. A 2018 <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/researchers-find-genetic-associations-for-morning-sickness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research collaboration</a> helped uncover some of the genetics behind severe morning sickness. Now we are going beyond that initial research to deliver personalized insights through the new Severe Morning Sickness* report. This new report lets female 23andMe+ Premium™ and Total Health™ members know if their genetics puts them at an increased likelihood of experiencing severe morning sickness during pregnancy, so they can plan ahead and seek support for symptoms early.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-dna">The role of DNA</h2>



In 2018, researchers at 23andMe <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/researchers-find-genetic-associations-for-morning-sickness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collaborated</a> on the first large-scale genetic study on the most severe form of morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). That study found genetic variants in two genes—GDF15 and IGFBP7—were associated with HG.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="306" height="126" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Group-125613.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33905" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Group-125613.png 306w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Group-125613-300x124.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 306px) 100vw, 306px" /></figure>



Now, thanks to the data from more than half a million consented 23andMe research participants, we generated a polygenic risk score (PRS) that takes into account the impact of thousands of genetic variants (along with genetic ancestry) to predict the likelihood of experiencing severe morning sickness during pregnancy.&nbsp;



If you&#8217;re interested in learning more about the methodology behind 23andMe’s PRS technology, there is a published <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_25-PRSMethodology.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white paper</a> that fully details the science.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-severe-morning-sickness">More About Severe Morning Sickness</h2>



Unlike typical morning sickness—which is common and usually improves after the first three months—severe morning sickness can persist throughout pregnancy; this can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies, which may impact the health of the pregnant person and growth of the baby if left untreated. In addition to genetics, other factors, such as a personal or family history of severe morning sickness, being prone to motion sickness, or having migraines, can increase the chances of experiencing severe morning sickness.



While there is no sure way to prevent morning sickness, certain lifestyle habits, such as adjusting your diet, getting plenty of rest, and staying hydrated, may help manage or reduce the severity of symptoms. In very severe cases, a hospital stay can help restore hydration and nutrition. Knowing about the chances of experiencing severe morning sickness may help pregnant people plan for ways to manage symptoms or get prompt medical attention, if needed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn more</h2>



Eligible 23andMe members can view this report with their other Wellness reports.



Not a 23andMe+ Premium member yet? Learn more about what 23andMe has to offer <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



NOTE: Within this blog post, we use the word “female” to refer to people whose birth sex is female. However, we recognize that being categorized by birth sex may be an uncomfortable experience for some people, and we do not mean to delegitimize anyone’s gender identity. Learn more about why we made this decision in this <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010964373-How-23andMe-Uses-Your-Genetic-Sex-Birth-Sex-and-Gender" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help article</a>.



* The 23andMe Severe Morning Sickness PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 4,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of developing severe morning sickness. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Severe Morning Sickness PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment.

From Genetic Discovery to Personalized Insight: New Report on Severe Morning Sickness

National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month: Highlighting Customer Stories

<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-initiative-accelerates-access-to-vital-genetic-and-clinical-insights">Data initiative accelerates access to vital genetic and clinical insights</h5>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2.png" alt="Illustration of lungs on a background with a larger illustration of lungs" class="wp-image-34192" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2.png 1200w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-300x169.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-768x432.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-880x495.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-1180x664.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



At the 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer in Barcelona, the 23andMe Research Institute, in collaboration with Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies and the health data software company Lifebit, introduced an open-source platform that could help fast-track research discoveries through a powerful new cancer data repository.



The announcement comes just a year after the start of the<a href="https://www.23andme.com/lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Lung Cancer Genetics Study</a>, spearheaded by 23andMe and bringing together more than 20 lung cancer advocacy and science organizations to recruit 10,000 people diagnosed with lung cancer. Their goal is to develop new ways to identify those at highest risk for lung cancer early, while also finding possible new treatments for this deadly cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Personal Drive Behind the Mission</h2>



The effort is personal for many of the advocates who are part of the collaboration and also for Anne Wojcicki, founder and CEO of the 23andMe Research Institute. Anne&#8217;s sister Susan Wojcicki died of lung cancer last year, just as the study began.



&#8220;My sister was passionate about understanding the science behind lung cancer so future generations could prevent the disease and treat it. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study is a step towards achieving that.” Anne said.



In the months before her death, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-legacy-of-hope-in-the-fight-against-lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Susan had been very involved in helping to create the study with the hope that it could help others</a>. The idea was not just to leverage genetic data for insights into lung cancer but also to create a repository of data that would be available to as many qualified researchers as possible.&nbsp;



The platform — created through the collaboration between the 23andMe Research Institute, Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies, and Lifebit — offers a secure, open-source data platform for researchers to access this novel dataset. Powered by Lifebit&#8217;s Health Data Ecosystem, the platform provides qualified researchers with no-cost access to de-identified data from people diagnosed with lung cancer who have consented to participate in this research.&nbsp;



&#8220;More people die of lung cancer each year than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined, yet it is one of the least funded for research. It’s important for this powerful new tool to be available at no cost to qualified researchers so that the best minds can work on unlocking the genetic insights that may lead to a cure,&#8221; said Anne.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Building a One-of-a-Kind Data Resource</h2>



Since launching the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-launches-new-genetic-study-of-lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lung Cancer Genetics Study</a>, more than 1,200 people diagnosed with lung cancer have enrolled to participate in the research. The goal is to enroll 10,000 people by 2027, but the study has already assembled one of the most diverse cohorts ever for lung cancer genetic research.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="464" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1024x464.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34183" style="width:242px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1024x464.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-300x136.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-768x348.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-880x399.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1180x534.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Genetics is just one of many factors involved in why some people develop lung cancer. Exposure to tobacco smoke is perhaps the best-known risk factor; however, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2409903/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">80 to 90%</a> of people with a history of tobacco exposure never get lung cancer, and many people without tobacco exposure get the disease. These facts underscore the importance of investigating other, less well-known risk factors, like air pollution, radon exposure, and workplace-related exposures.



And there&#8217;s much more we don&#8217;t know about lung cancer. Many do not realize, for instance, that lung cancer is the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2025/2025-cancer-facts-and-figures-acs.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">number one cause of cancer death in women</a> and <a href="https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/most-common-cancers-in-women#:~:text=It%20may%20not%20surprise%20you,in%20women%20and%20people%20AFAB." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the second most common cancer in women</a>. Although lung cancer overall is decreasing because of declines in tobacco use, lung cancer among people who have never smoked <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7431055/#:~:text=As%20expected%2C%20the%20primary%20factor%20leading%20to,non%2Dsmokers%20has%20been%20noted%20to%20be%20increasing." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">is stable or increasing</a>, and <a href="https://www.webmd.com/lung-cancer/features/lung-cancer-women-who-never-smoked" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two-thirds of people diagnosed with lung cancer with no smoking history are women</a>.&nbsp;



Understanding the genetics of lung cancer may help unravel some of the factors underlying those statistics. Additionally, learning more about the underlying genetics could provide researchers with more insight into the biological mechanisms of the disease, aiding in the development of improved therapies and new diagnostics.&nbsp;



The de-identified data that participants in the Lung Cancer Genetic Study consented to share isn’t limited to just genetics. Many participants also chose to provide self-reported clinical, lifestyle, and even tumor biomarker data. The study will also follow participants over time, gathering important longitudinal data to help researchers understand the progression of cancer as well as the response to treatments.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Empowering Researchers</h2>



By opening up access to qualified researchers, the collaborators aim to address significant gaps in current lung cancer research, break down institutional silos, and remove barriers to dataset access, thereby accelerating research progress.&nbsp;



&#8220;We&#8217;re delivering more than a data system — we&#8217;re enabling an entirely new model for research equity and access,&#8221; said Nadia Litterman, PhD, Director of Scientific Affairs and Partnerships at Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Find Out More</h2>



Anyone who has been diagnosed with lung cancer can learn more and enroll in the study at<a href="http://23andme.com/lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> 23andme.com/lung-cancer</a>.



Interested researchers can begin the data access request process by contacting TWP study program manager Caitlin Nichols at <a href="mailto:caitlin@twphilanthropies.org">caitlin@twphilanthropies.org</a>.&nbsp;

Illustration of lungs on a background with a larger illustration of lungs

Powerful New Tool Opens Lung Cancer Data for Research Breakthroughs

Health Huddle LIVE from New Orleans brought together top athletes, medical professionals, and community leaders for powerful conversations on health, genetics, and early detection. Hosted at Dillard University during Super Bowl Week, the event was part of 23andMe’s Community Health Huddle, featuring expert panels and free health screenings. 



Watch the Highlights: 



<figure class="wp-block-embed alignwide is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="The 23andMe Health Huddle: Live from New Orleans" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5hOR4o5PkAU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experts-athletes-amp-actionable-insights">Experts, Athletes &amp; Actionable Insights</h2>



Panelists included Dr. Jen Caldwell, Dr. Joel Bervell, and Dr. Mathew Knowles—a breast cancer survivor and 23andMe Global Brand Ambassador—who shared personal stories and insights on health disparities, preventive medicine, and genetic testing. They were joined by NFL Total Health Ambassadors, highlighting how genetic insights shape performance, recovery, and longevity in sports.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-takeaways">Key Takeaways</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Genetic Testing Saves Lives – Understanding your genetic risks enables early detection and prevention, reducing the burden of chronic diseases. </li>



<li>Your Family History is Your Health Roadmap – What runs in your family doesn’t have to define your future, but knowing your risks empowers healthier decisions. </li>



<li>Health Inequities Must Be Addressed – Underserved communities continue to lack access to vital genetic and preventive care. This must change. </li>



<li>Athletes Rely on Science to Perform &amp; Recover – The same genetic insights that help pros optimize their health can help everyone make more informed health choices.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-event-driving-change">Beyond the Event: Driving Change</h2>



Health Huddle LIVE reinforced a core truth: genetic insights aren’t just about ancestry—they’re a tool for taking control of your health and advocating for better healthcare access. By bringing together medicine, sports, and community leadership, 23andMe continues to lead the movement for health equity and empowerment.



 #HealthHuddleLIVE #GeneticHealth #CommunityWellness

Inside Health Huddle LIVE: Athletes, Experts & Doctors on Longevity, Genetics & Wellness

September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, which offers us another chance to highlight some of the work 23andMe and its collaborators have done over the years.



Earlier this month, researchers from 23andMe,<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nih.gov/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the the National Institutes of Health</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/som/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine</a> published new data on the association between sickle cell trait and blood clots. The new findings highlight the importance of this ongoing research and our overall efforts to illuminate this condition.



At 23andMe, knowledge is power, and understanding risks offers people opportunities to mitigate them.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-awareness-and-research">Awareness and Research</h2>



But more than that, 23andMe also offers a unique research model that allows individuals to learn about their genetic likelihood of developing a condition and participate in innovative genetic research that could potentially find new treatments.



As part of our <a href="http://www.23andme.com/sickle-cell" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sickle Cell Carrier Status Awareness Program</a>, 23andMe has collaborated with academics and advocacy organizations to increase <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/sickle-cell-awareness-2">understanding of sickle cell</a>. In addition, we’re providing resources for those with sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease. With the help of the<a href="https://www.sicklecellga.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia, Inc. (SCFG)</a>,<a href="https://www.btsscycle.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Breaking the SSickle Cell Cycle</a>,<a href="https://www.sc101.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Sickle Cell 101</a>, and the<a href="https://www.msm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Morehouse School of Medicine</a>, we’re working with Black communities to promote awareness. 



We are not alone in this effort. Recently, the NBA, the WNBA, and Wilson Sporting Goods began the #IBall4SickleCell social media campaign to raise awareness. The groups participating in the effort are Breaking the SSickle Cell Cycle, the American Red Cross of Tennessee, and New York Presbyterian’s Dalio Center for Health Justice. Learn more about sickle cell, the campaign, and how to help<a href="https://www.sicklecellball.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> here</a>. 



From all this work and research, we have learned much about sickle cell and the people it impacts most. However, much work is still needed to improve people’s understanding of sickle cell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-on-sickle-cell-anemia-sickle-cell-trait">More on Sickle Cell Anemia, Sickle Cell Trait</h2>



Although many people have heard of sickle cell, often they do not know the difference between sickle cell trait and sickle cell anemia.



To have sickle cell anemia, one must inherit two copies of the HbS variant in the HBB gene—one copy from each biological parent. Typical signs and symptoms include anemia, pain episodes, and frequent infection.



People with just one copy of the HbS variant are called carriers. They’re also said to have <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/traits.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">sickle cell trait</a>. People with sickle cell trait are not expected to have sickle cell anemia. They typically do not experience any health complications. However, in rare cases, people with the sickle cell trait may experience some health impacts. Current research, including our study, is underway to understand better and spread awareness about the complications someone with SCT may experience.



Importantly, carriers can pass their variant on to their future children. If their partner has the HbS variant or another variant in the HBB gene, there’s a 25 percent chance that each child may have sickle cell anemia or a related blood disorder.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-23andme-s-sickle-cell-anemia-carrier-status-report">23andMe’s Sickle Cell Anemia Carrier Status Report**</h2>



23andMe’s<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/sickle-cell-anemia/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Sickle Cell Anemia Carrier Status Report</a>, which meets FDA requirements for clinical and analytical validity, looks at the HbS variant in the HBB gene linked to sickle cell anemia.



Sickle cell anemia is the most severe form of sickle cell disease. Three hundred million people worldwide and one in 13 Black and African Americans in the United States have sickle cell trait, making them carriers for sickle cell anemia.



In addition to informing people if they have one copy of the HbS variant and are carriers for sickle cell anemia, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-updates-carrier-status-report-on-sickle-cell-anemia">23andMe’s report </a>can also tell individuals if they have two copies of the tested variant and if they are at risk of developing symptoms. However, the report does not describe one’s overall risk of developing symptoms. 



Because the HbS variant is more common in certain populations, the Sickle Cell Anemia report is most relevant to people of African, Middle Eastern, and South Asian descent, as well as people from the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and parts of Central and South America.



23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers and 23andMe+ Premium members can see their <a target="_blank" href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/carrier.sickle_cell_anemia/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sickle Cell Anemia report here</a>.&nbsp;



Not yet a customer? Learn more about <a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/?_gl=1*11ns9j4*_ga*OTk4NDAyMjA3LjE3MTgzODA2MTg.*_ga_G330GF3ZFF*MTcyNTQxNDcyOS4xNjQuMS4xNzI1NDE0Nzk4LjAuMC4w" rel="noreferrer noopener">all that 23andMe offers here</a>.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-note">Note:</h2>



**The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults to report carrier status and reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. The relevance of each report may vary based on ethnicity. Our carrier status reports can be used to determine carrier status but cannot determine if you have two copies of any genetic variant. These carrier reports are not intended to tell you anything about your risk for developing a disease in the future, the health of your fetus, or your newborn child’s risk of developing a particular disease later in life. We provide a single report for certain conditions that includes information on carrier status and genetic health risk. For important information and limitations regarding other genetic health risk reports and carrier status reports, click <a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.

An illustration for 23andMe's Sickle Cell Carrier Statues Awareness Program.

Learn More About Our Research and Collaborations During Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Editor&#8217;s note 7/8/2024: This post has been updated since 2020. In addition, We do not support uploading DNA data obtained from other testing services to 23andMe. This article explains the risks of uploading your DNA data to third party services.
With all of <a class="waffle-rich-text-link" href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">23andMe&#8217;s services</a>, you’re in charge of your genetic data. That means we let you decide what information you want to learn and what information you want to share. However, you need to be informed about the risks of sharing your genetic data with other services. This includes understanding the implications if you decide to upload DNA to 23andMe or any third-party service.
After receiving <a class="waffle-rich-text-link" href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-reports-list/">personalized genetic reports</a> from 23andMe, customers can choose to download their raw DNA data. Some customers may do this to upload their data to third-party services, which offer to interpret their raw DNA data to find new genetic relatives or get additional genetic reports. However, 23andMe cannot vouch for the scientific validity or accuracy, or clarity in communication of results of any such third-party services. In fact, only 23andMe offers a consumer genetic test with health reports that have FDA&#8217;s independent assurance of validity and clear results (without requiring a prescription).
Beyond concerns about scientific validity, uploading your raw DNA data to a third-party service can also put <a href="https://www.23andme.com/privacy/">your data privacy</a> at risk. In part, this is why 23andMe provides important warnings to its customers before they choose to download.
<h2>What are some of the risks of uploading your DNA data to a third-party website? </h2>
<div id="attachment_27862" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/how-to-be-careful-with-your-raw-dna-data/what-is-dna-upload" rel="attachment wp-att-27862"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-27862" class="size-medium wp-image-27862" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/What-is-DNA-Upload-300x128.jpg" alt="An illustration of the steps for downloading data." width="300" height="128" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/What-is-DNA-Upload-300x128.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/What-is-DNA-Upload.jpg 512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a>Most consumer genetics companies, including 23andMe, allow you to download your own raw DNA data. At that point, the customer is free to do what they like with their raw DNA data, such as deciding to upload that raw DNA data to third-party services.</div>
At 23andMe, we’re clear with our users about the risks of using third-party services that provide additional health, wellness or trait insights. This is because only select genotype data used specifically in our Health reports have been individually validated for accuracy. While the rest of your data has undergone a general quality review, it has not been validated to the extent of the data underlying our official 23andMe reports. As a result, raw DNA data should not be used for medical purposes and we do not recommend the use of third-party services that claim to interpret raw DNA data to provide health information.
Consumers also cite concerns about law enforcement uploading crime-scene DNA data to third-party services to crack a cold case. Simply put, uploading crime-scene DNA data into the 23andMe environment is not possible because we do not support the upload of DNA data that has been processed by a third-party laboratory.
Further, 23andMe’s <a href="https://www.23andme.com/transparency-report/">Transparency Report</a> details our policy against releasing customer’s individual DNA data to any third party &#8211; including law enforcement &#8211; without receiving the customer’s explicit consent, unless required by law.
However, this concern about law enforcement upload of crime scene DNA data is a real one that we warn customers about should they choose to upload their DNA data to other third party platforms, including public genealogy services or other third party services that facilitate DNA data upload.
But there’s another form of vulnerability that’s less well-understood: Within databases that allow for raw DNA data uploads with access to relative matching features, people with malicious intent can upload real or fake “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_horse_(computing)">Trojan Horse</a>” genetic profiles for access to your personal identifying information. They could even infer your specific DNA variants—such as information about any disease risk variants you might carry. This is one reason why we don&#8217;t support uploading DNA to 23andMe.
<h2>How can that happen?</h2>
<ul>
<li>Many relative-matching services allow you to see the exact section or sections of DNA you share with each relative.*</li>
<li>If uploading DNA data is allowed, it means you no longer know for sure that your relative’s profile is actually controlled by your relative, and a malicious actor could upload real or fake DNA data to deduce information about you based on sections of matching DNA, including any disease risk variants you might have.</li>
<li>Even if shared segments aren’t shown, there are still ways that people with malicious intent can deduce some of your DNA variants.</li>
</ul>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-27863 alignright" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/How-Uploading-Creates-Risk-300x202.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="202" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/How-Uploading-Creates-Risk-300x202.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/How-Uploading-Creates-Risk.jpg 512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
This vulnerability was recently described in two reports: one at the University of Washington and another at the University of California, Davis. The authors of these reports explain several ways an “adversary” can deduce people&#8217;s genotypes “either at key positions or at many sites genome-wide” in databases that allow DNA data uploads with relative matching. This highlights the risks associated with uploading DNA to 23andMe or similar services.
Both reports outline specific ways for services to mitigate risk, such as limiting the information displayed in relative-matching features.
While these practices may reduce risk, we believe the simplest and most effective defense is to not allow individuals genotyped through other testing services to upload their DNA data to 23andMe for the purpose of discovering genetic relatives.
In the past, 23andMe has allowed DNA uploads from other consumer genetic testing services in very specific circumstances. Specifically, on DNA Day in April 2018, 23andMe allowed individuals who tested at other companies to upload their results to access a subset of our trait reports, but 23andMe has not enabled the discovery of new relatives for these accounts.
<h2>How does 23andMe ensure that only real, consenting individuals participate in our service? </h2>
In a word, spit.
When you spit into the tube, you’re embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. You’re also trusting 23andMe with some of your most personal information.
Requiring a saliva sample is how 23andMe is able to verify that you’re a real person who chose to participate in the service. While it might be easy to upload fake DNA data, it’s another matter entirely to fake a spit sample, which requires filling a tube with more than two milliliters of spit. It’s how you know that “Linda-your-4th-cousin-who-you-didn’t-know-existed” is a real person who chose to do 23andMe. Linda had to spit in a tube, too.
<h2>What are some key questions you should ask?</h2>
When considering whether or not to upload your raw DNA data to another website, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with their privacy and security policies before you upload your raw DNA data.
Make sure to consider the following questions:
<ol>
<li>Before you upload your DNA data, ask yourself: do I really need to do this? Am I willing to risk the security and privacy of my DNA data by uploading it to a third-party service?</li>
<li>Do your research! Does the third-party service have a track record of strong privacy and data security?</li>
<li>How will the third-party service use your information?  How can your information be further shared with other third parties?</li>
<li>If you are not interested in discovering new relatives but you want additional DNA insights, does the other service explicitly exclude features relating to discovering genetic relatives?</li>
</ol>
An earlier article detailing our stance on protecting customers’ data is available <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/news/our-stance-on-protecting-customers-data/">here</a>. 
<h2>Learn More</h2>
Find out if your <a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/genetic-health/">genetics</a> might Increase your risk for any health conditions with 23andMe.
You can also Learn more about common risks associated with uploading raw DNA online and how to protect your DNA information.
*By default, 23andMe does not display your ancestry information or DNA segment information to relatives or connections until you decide to share it with them.

Can You Upload DNA Data to 23andMe? 

Today is DNA Day, and while every day at 23andMe is about DNA, this one is extra special because it allows everyone to delight in the power of DNA.



Whether you are a 23andMe customer or just DNA curious, there is a lot you can do if you’d like to start or deepen your genetic journey and take action to participate in the new genomic age.



We’ll get to that, but first, take a moment to learn —or refresh your knowledge — about what we’re celebrating.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-double-helix-celebration">A Double Helix Celebration</h2>



<a href="https://www.genome.gov/dna-day">DNA Day</a> commemorates the anniversary of the 1953 discovery of the double helix structure of DNA and the 2003 completion of the human genome project that led to the sequencing of the human genome for the first time. That code represents the building blocks of life, and it gives us access to information that has already led to medical and scientific breakthroughs, as well as an understanding of the human story.



23andMe was founded in 2006, not long after the publication of the mapping of the human genome. Our mission then and now is to help people access, understand, and benefit from the human genome.&nbsp;



Not too long ago, 23andMe surpassed 15 million genotyped customers, each of whom chose to begin their genetic journey with us. We’d like to invite you along as well, or if you’re already a customer, we’d like to share with you how to go a little further on this journey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-steps">First Steps</h2>



If you’re not yet a customer, your first step could be to spit in a tube provided in one of our test kits and send it to our lab. At the lab, technicians extract DNA from your saliva, which is placed on a genotyping chip.



Here’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtxX_3nVDao">a little video</a> about the different services we offer customers and what they can tell you about your health, traits, and ancestry.



Of course, if you don’t want to use 23andMe or don’t want to use a genetic test, there are plenty of great and free options for learning more about genetics. One of our go-to resources is the <a href="https://www.genome.gov/about-genomics">National Human Genome Research Institute</a>, but many other options exist.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-open-and-explore-your-reports">Open and Explore Your Reports</h2>



Like with any exploration, you don’t know what you might find in using 23andMe that could draw you deeper into your DNA exploration.



Customers might want to learn more about their health, find DNA relatives, or learn about their genetic ancestry. Some people are just curious and want to geek out on genetics.&nbsp;



If you’ve taken that first step and tested, the next step is to open your reports. Some Genetic Health Risk Reports*—such as those on Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease, BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants), and Parkinson’s Disease, for instance—require an additional opt-in before opening. But whatever reports you’re looking at, we have tutorials on navigating them and where to start.



Our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/">Ancestry Service</a> has the most comprehensive ancestry breakdown on the market; it now includes more than 3000 geographic regions, an automatic family tree builder, and more than 30 trait reports. As 23andMe grows, so does our ability to improve the granularity and specificity of the regions we offer in our ancestry report. For instance, we added 36 new Genetic Groups in France and Belgium.&nbsp;



23andMe’s <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/">Health + Ancestry Service</a> includes everything you get in the Ancestry Service plus health predisposition reports (including FDA-authorized reports), wellness reports, carrier status reports, and a family health history tree feature. In all, the service includes more than 150 personalized reports.



The 23andMe+ Premium membership includes everything in the Health + Ancestry Service plus more than 30 PRS reports, including reports on three of the most common forms of cancer and reports on heart health and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. In addition, the service includes FDA-authorized reports on how your genetics may impact the way you process certain types of medications.** 23andMe+ Premium also includes tools and features such as <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/stay-on-track-with-23andme-health-tracks">Health Tracks</a>SM and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-health-action-plan-for-you">Health Action Plan</a> to help you get even more personalized recommendations. Most recently, we’ve added a new ancestry feature called <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches">Historical Matches</a>SM that helps determine whether you connect to one or more of 335 historical people across the globe.&nbsp;



For those who want our most advanced and comprehensive health membership, we offer <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/">23andMe+ Total Health</a>***, which includes next-generation sequencing that detects 200x more disease-causing genetic variants*. This new membership offers more than 190 genetic reports from 23andMe+ Premium, along with clinician-ordered exome sequencing to help identify disease risks and biannual blood testing with advanced cardiometabolic biomarkers. You&#8217;ll have direct access to clinicians trained in genetics-informed care to receive a personalized health plan tailored to you



Whatever services you’re using with 23andMe, we offer a guide to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">get started with your reports</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-participate-in-research">Participate in Research</h2>



What is something in you, something in your DNA, that could help scientists better understand a disease or develop a new treatment or cure?&nbsp;



One of the many innovations 23andMe pioneered is our research model, which allows people to consent to participate in research. The guiding principle for 23andMe is transparency and choice. It’s a choice whether someone wants to access their genetic information, and 23andMe also gives our customers a choice about whether they want to participate in research. More than 80 percent of 23andMe customers actively consent to participate in research.&nbsp;



Our research database, which contains aggregated de-identified genetic and phenotypic data, is by far the largest research database of its kind.&nbsp;



It’s helped not just our scientists but academic and institutional researchers with whom we’ve collaborated on more than <a href="https://research.23andme.com/publications/#publications">250 publications</a> on neurological conditions, cancers, and rare diseases. There are also ongoing research studies for <a href="https://www.23andme.com/PD/">Parkinson’s Disease,</a> <a href="https://www.23andme.com/genetic-insights-into-colorectal-cancer-black-community/">Colorectal Cancer within the Black Community</a>, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/sickle-cell/">Sickle Cell</a>. And we continue to work on other conditions, including <a href="https://www.23andme.com/depression-bipolar/">depression and bipolar disorder</a>, <a href="https://www.23andme.com/sarcoidosis-representation/">sarcoidosis</a>, and <a href="https://you.23andme.com/covid19-study/">COVID</a>.&nbsp;



Another aspect of this work is ensuring that our research is more representative and thus benefits people of all backgrounds. Unfortunately, much of genetic research to date lacks diversity, which has meant that people of non-European backgrounds often do not benefit from those insights. 23andMe is trying to change that. Our Black Representation in Genomic Research study, for instance, has made great strides at engaging with communities that have historically been left out of research.&nbsp;



You can also help. If you’re a customer of 23andMe, you can consent to participate in research at any time through your Account Settings; if you’re not, you can seek out opportunities to participate in research through the <a href="https://allofus.nih.gov/">National Institutes of Health’s All of Us</a> effort, for example, or the Veteran’s Administration <a href="https://www.research.va.gov/mvp/">Million Veterans Program</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-share-your-story">Share Your Story</h2>



It’s always been heartening for us at 23andMe to hear from our customers and those who participate in our research about how launching their DNA journey has impacted them.&nbsp;



Whether they’ve learned more about their <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-connects-living-family-to-enslaved-african-american-from-historic-site">family’s ancestral journey</a>, discovered <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbWirWghCJA">life-saving information</a> about family members, or joined with others to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JzErEQFPIU">participate in crucial genetic research</a>, their stories inspire us all.&nbsp;



If you have a story to share, <a href="https://www.23andme.com/stories/#submit">we’d love to hear it</a>.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



*23andMe health predisposition reports include both reports that meet FDA requirements for genetic health risks and reports that are based on 23andMe research and have not been reviewed by the FDA. The test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The test is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication, how much of a medication you should take, or determine any treatment. For certain conditions, we provide a single report that includes information on both carrier status and genetic health risk. 



Warnings &amp; Limitations: The 23andMe PGS Genetic Health Risk Report for BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) is indicated for reporting 44 variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The report describes if a person&#8217;s genetic result is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer and may be associated with an increased risk for prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and potentially other cancers. The variants included in this report do not represent the majority of the BRCA1/BRCA2 variants in people of most ethnicities. This report does not include variants in other genes linked to hereditary cancers and the absence of variants included in this report does not rule out the presence of other genetic variants that may impact cancer risk. This report is for over-the-counter use by adults over the age of 18 and provides genetic information to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional for recommended screenings or appropriate follow-up. Results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding each genetic health risk report, visit <a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/">23andme.com/test-info/</a>. 



**23andMe PGS Pharmacogenetics reports: The 23andMe test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 3 variants in the CYP2C19 gene, 2 variants in the DPYD gene, and 1 variant in the SLCO1B1 gene in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting information about the processing of certain therapeutics to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. It does not describe if a person will or will not respond to a particular therapeutic. Our CYP2C19 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with the metabolism of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of citalopram and clopidogrel therapy. Our SLCO1B1 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with the processing of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of simvastatin therapy. Our DPYD Pharmacogenetics report does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Results for DPYD and certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action. Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding Pharmacogenetic reports, visit <a href="http://23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/">23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/</a> 



***Total Health is not available to residents of HI, NJ, NY, OK, RI and US territories. Not currently available to existing 23andMe customers. <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/#sign-up">Sign up</a> to be the first to know when it’s available.



Exome Sequencing and blood testing services are available to eligible customers upon completion of the intake questionnaire that must be reviewed, approved and ordered by a third-party clinician. Exome Sequencing is analyzed by a CLIA- and CAP-accredited laboratory. Blood testing is completed by Quest Diagnostics. All telehealth services are provided in accordance with the Telehealth Terms and Consent Telehealth.



‡Our genotyping product detects 250 health-related variants in our Carrier Status and Genetic Health Risk reports. The Exome Sequencing reports detect 50,000+ hereditary disease-causing variants.&nbsp;

Happy DNA Day 2024

Cancer casts its shadow on almost all of us. Whether we&#8217;re facing our own diagnosis or that of a spouse, a parent, a child, a friend, or another loved one, we can muster the courage we need in those moments by knowing we are not alone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beat-cancer">Beat Cancer</h2>



We at 23andMe are encouraged by the White House’s recent designation of April as National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month to rally support for those affected and their families and highlight the importance of prevention and screening.



But beyond simply naming the month, this is part of a collective effort to raise awareness that includes <a href="https://www.preventcancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024_White_House_partner_letter_Cancer_Prevention_Early_Detection_FINAL.pdf">support from 84 non-profit and patient advocacy organizations</a>. Each group focuses on expanding cancer screening, research, and treatments. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-32772" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-150x150.png 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-300x300.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-768x768.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-880x880.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-1180x1180.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-271x271.png 271w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-372x372.png 372w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-574x574.png 574w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on-980x980.png 980w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Get-your-green-on.png 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">23andMe Employees wearing green in support of National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-progress">Progress</h2>



So much progress has been made already — <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine/six-reasons.html">vaccines against human papillomavirus</a> promise to slash the rates of cervical cancer; cancer screening has <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10405449/">saved millions of lives</a> in the last three decades; new <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/lung-cancer-treatments-mortality-drop">treatments for lung cancer</a> have reduced mortality rates; and immunotherapies such as <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/research/car-t-cells">CAR-T cell therapy</a> have improved outcomes for many types of cancer.



However, much more needs to be done. Every year, more than 1.8 million people in the United States are <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/statistics">diagnosed with cancer</a>, and more than 600,000 people die each year, making it the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/leading-causes-of-death.htm">second leading cause of death</a> behind heart disease.&nbsp;



Every cancer is different, but early detection and treatment offer the best outcomes for all cancers. Improved awareness about cancer screening — regular mammograms and colorectal cancer screening, for instance — can go a long way toward early detection.&nbsp;



Knowing one&#8217;s risk by learning about one&#8217;s family cancer history, or through genetic testing, or simply through identifying risk factors in one&#8217;s life can help identify those at higher risk and direct them toward preventive care or enhanced screening.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-knowing">The Power of Knowing</h2>



23andMe wants to show our support for this new effort but also share a little about how we are raising awareness about cancer, alerting people of their potential risk for different forms of cancer, and adding to the growing body of research into cancer to potentially identify causes and cures.



In the coming weeks, we’ll share more about what 23andMe has done and is doing to help people better understand their genetic risk and family cancer history and how that knowledge is a formidable tool for cancer prevention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-find-out-more">Find Out More</h2>



Learn more about cancer prevention and screening from the <a href="https://www.preventcancer.org/cancer-prevention-early-detection-month/">Prevent Cancer Foundation</a>. You can explore more about all that 23andMe has to offer <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">here</a>.

A photo of a doctor showing a patient information on a digital tablet.

Improving Cancer Outcomes Through Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Fundamental, common humanity unites every person on the planet: DNA. Some use race and biology to explain what are, in reality, social and cultural differences between people. It’s a fact that we humans are genetically 99.5 percent identical.&nbsp;



23andMe is a brand that leads with science. We fundamentally believe that we are more alike than we are different. Understanding that ridding ourselves of socially constructed ‘isms’ — like racism or classism —frees everyone. When we step out of systems of “us” vs “them” and bear witness to the oppression of people everywhere, humanity takes center stage.&nbsp;



Isabel Wilkerson’s biographical New York Times best-selling book, Caste, inspired Ava DuVernay’s new film ORIGIN. As with the book, DuVernay’s moving film adaptation — starring Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Wilkerson — analyzes discrimination and the connections between American racism, Nazi persecution of Jews, and India&#8217;s caste system.&nbsp;



It is the 0.5 percent that makes us each genetically different from one another and has also bred hatred across the world.



23andMe believes that focusing on all that we share as humans, and celebrating what makes us unique, could bring the world together. So for the next 23 days of January, 23andMe will donate 100 seats daily, to the <a href="https://www.seat16.com/">Seat16 program</a> which has a goal of getting 10,000 young people around the country to see the new film, ORIGIN.



Everyone deserves a place in this world and we believe in focusing on the things we share in common. Above all else, we want the world to remember that we are all 100 percent human.



ORIGIN will be in select theaters starting on January 19, 2024. 23andMe CEO and Co-founder Anne Wojcicki helped produce the film. You can see the ORIGIN film trailer <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAweg5PaMuw">here.</a> 



#100PercentHuman <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1VAohGvlEW/?img_index=2">#ORIGINFilm</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/seat16/">#Seat16</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/23andme/">#23andMe</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/unityindiversity/">#UnityInDiversity</a>

Origin and Our Common Humanity

Sit back and listen to 23andMe CEO and Co-Founder <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-anne-wojcicki-among-the-best-ceos-for-women">Anne Wojcicki, </a>along with 23andMe board member and founder of 23andMe Therapeutics division <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/richard-scheller-named-to-national-academy-of-medicine">Richard Scheller</a>, speak to Roelof Botha of Sequoia Capital about the company&#8217;s critical moments in history.



Botha, who is also on the 23andMe Board of Directors, discusses how the company weathered early criticism, even at its founding in 2006, from the 2013 FDA letter that ordered 23andMe to stop selling health testing products to customers to downturns in consumer interest.



The episode is part of a series called <a href="https://www.cruciblemoments.com/episodes/23andme" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crucible Moments,</a> produced by Sequoia Capital. In this series, Roelof explores moments in every start-up business journey in which a company can succeed or fail. How a company responds often defines its future.



Listen to <a href="https://www.cruciblemoments.com/episodes/23andme">Anne&#8217;s Crucible Moments</a> and learn a little about <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-turns-16">23andMe&#8217;s history</a>.

Crucible Moments in 23andMe’s History

Since 2019, 23andMe customers have had the option to utilize authenticator app 2-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security to their account. Starting today, we are requiring all customers use a second step of verification to sign into their account.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-2-step-verification">What is 2-Step Verification?</h6>



2-step verification (2SV), also referred to as 2-factor authentication, requires customers to provide two distinct steps to sign in before accessing their accounts. In combination with a username and password, customers will be asked for a verification code. 



Depending on what method customers choose to use, that code will either be generated by an authenticator app, or sent to their email if they use email 2-step verification. This code is another way to verify the customer’s identity before accessing their account.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-up-2-step-verification">Setting Up 2-Step Verification</h6>



New customers will be automatically enrolled in email 2SV when they create their account. Existing customers who do not already use an authenticator app will also be automatically enrolled in email 2SV, and will receive an email containing their verification code at their next sign-in. 



Existing customers who already use an authenticator app, can continue to use that option. New customers who want to use an authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator™ mobile app, instead of email 2SV, can set up the authenticator app using the instructions found <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360034119874-Adding-2-Step-Verification-to-Your-23andMe-Account">here</a>. 



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions">Questions?</h6>



As always, customers can work with our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/">Customer Care team</a> if they have questions about using this added security step.



 This new security update is part of our ongoing commitment to keep customer data safe and secure. It’s another line of defense to protect their data. We encourage all of our customers to review our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360062175913-Privacy-and-Security-Help-Center">Privacy and Security Checkup</a> page, where they will find additional information on how to keep their accounts secure.

An image of a lock a computer, DNA and a mobile phone representing security protections.

Enhanced Customer Security at 23andMe with 2-Step Verification

Update: December 5, 2023 2:45 PM PST



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-credential-stuffing-incident-what-happened">Credential Stuffing Incident: What happened?</h2>



As our investigation comes to a close, we wanted to share the details of what took place and our findings.&nbsp;



In early October, we learned that a threat actor accessed a select number of individual 23andMe.com accounts through a process called credential stuffing. That is, usernames and passwords that were used on 23andMe.com were the same as those used on other websites that have been previously compromised or otherwise available. We do not have any indication that there was a data security incident within our systems, or that 23andMe was the source of the account credentials used in these attacks.&nbsp;



The threat actor used the compromised accounts to access information shared with these accounts. Specifically, DNA Relatives profiles connected to these compromised accounts, which consist of information that a customer chooses to make available to their genetic relatives when they opt in to participate in 23andMe’s DNA Relatives feature. A DNA Relatives profile includes information such as display name, predicted relationships, and percentage of DNA shared with matches. You can find a full list of the types of information included in a DNA Relatives profile <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/212170838">here</a>.



Additionally, through the compromised accounts, the threat actor accessed a feature called Family Tree, which includes a limited subset of DNA Relatives profile information. The Family Tree feature does not include ancestry information such as the percentage of DNA shared with genetic matches or ancestry reports.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-threat-actor-accessed-nbsp">What the Threat Actor Accessed&nbsp;</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The threat actor was able to access less than 0.1%, or roughly 14,000 user accounts, of the existing 14 million 23andMe customers through credential stuffing.&nbsp;</li>



<li>The threat actor used the compromised credential stuffed accounts to access the information included in a significant number of DNA Relatives profiles (approximately 5.5 million) and Family Tree feature profiles (approximately 1.4 million), each of which were connected to the compromised accounts.</li>
</ul>



Since detecting the incident, we emailed all customers to notify them of the investigation and are continuing to notify impacted customers, based on applicable laws. We also required every 23andMe customer to reset their password. In addition, 23andMe now requires all new and existing customers to login using two-step verification. Protecting our customers’ data privacy and security remains a top priority for 23andMe, and we will continue to invest in protecting our systems and data.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-security-incident-updates">Security Incident Updates</h2>



Update: December 1, 2023 3:45 PM PST



23andMe has completed its investigation, assisted by third-party forensics experts. We are in the process of notifying affected customers, as required by law.&nbsp;



We have taken steps to further protect customer data, including requiring all existing customers to reset their password and requiring two-step verification for all new and existing customers. The company will continue to invest in protecting our systems and data.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Updated: November 6, 2023 7:45 AM PST



Starting today, we are requiring all customers to utilize email 2-step verification (2SV) as an&nbsp;added&nbsp;layer of protection for their account.&nbsp;New customers will be automatically enrolled in email 2SV when they create their account. Existing customers who do not already use an authenticator app will also be automatically enrolled in email 2SV, and will receive an email containing their verification code at their next sign-in. You can read <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/enhanced-customer-security-at-23andme-with-2-step-verification">more on our blog post</a>.



Update: October 20, 2023 9:35 PM PST



As part of the ongoing security investigation, we have temporarily disabled some features within the DNA Relatives tool as an additional precaution to protect the privacy of our customers.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-actions-has-23andme-taken">What actions has 23andMe taken?</h2>



Update: October 9, 2023 8:25 PM PST



Our investigation continues and we have engaged the assistance of third-party forensic experts. We are also working with federal law enforcement officials.&nbsp;



We are reaching out to our customers to provide an update on the investigation and to encourage them to take additional actions to keep their account and password secure. Out of caution, we are requiring that all customers reset their passwords and are encouraging the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA).



If we learn that a customer’s data has been accessed without their authorization, we will notify them directly with more information.



Please continue to follow this blog for updates as our investigation continues



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



October 6, 2023



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-credential-stuffing-attack">Credential Stuffing Attack</h2>



We recently learned that certain 23andMe customer profile information that they opted into sharing through our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/212170838">DNA Relatives feature</a>, was compiled from individual 23andMe.com accounts without the account users’ authorization.



After learning of suspicious activity, we immediately began an investigation.&nbsp; While we are continuing to investigate this matter, we believe threat actors were able to access certain accounts in instances where users recycled login credentials – that is, usernames and passwords that were used on <a href="https://www.23andme.com/">23andMe.com</a> were the same as those used on other websites that have been previously hacked. 



We believe that the threat actor may have then, in violation of our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/legal/terms-of-service/#requirements-and-conditions">Terms of Service</a>, accessed <a href="https://www.23andme.com/">23andMe.com</a> accounts without authorization and obtained information from certain accounts, including information about users’ DNA Relatives profiles, to the extent a user opted into that service.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-committed-to-safety-and-security">Committed to Safety and Security</h2>



23andMe is committed to providing you with a safe and secure place where you can learn about your DNA knowing your privacy is protected. We are continuing to investigate to confirm these preliminary results. We do not have any indication at this time that there has been a data security incident within our systems, or that 23andMe was the source of the account credentials used in these attacks.&nbsp;



At 23andMe, we take security seriously. We exceed industry data protection standards and have achieved three different ISO certifications to demonstrate the strength of our security program.&nbsp; We actively and routinely monitor and audit our systems to ensure that your data is protected.&nbsp; When we receive information through those processes or from other sources claiming customer data has been accessed by unauthorized individuals, we immediately investigate to validate whether this information is accurate. Since 2019 we’ve offered and encouraged users to use multi-factor authentication (MFA), which provides an extra layer of security and can prevent bad actors from accessing an account through recycled passwords.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommendations">Recommendations </h2>



We encourage our customers to take as much action to keep their account and password secure. Out of caution, we recommend taking the following steps:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Confirm you have a strong password, one that is not easy to guess and that is unique to your 23andMe account. If you are not sure whether you have a strong password for your account, reset it by following the steps outlined <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/202907580-Forgot-Your-Password-#:~:text=You%20are%20able%20to%20reset,the%20Send%20Reset%20Email%20button.">here</a>.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Please be sure to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your 23andMe account. You can enable MFA by following the steps outlined <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360034119874-Adding-2-Step-Verification-to-Your-23andMe-Account">here</a>.</li>



<li>Review our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360062175913-Privacy-and-Security-Help-Center">Privacy and Security Checkup</a> page with additional information on how to keep your account secure.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-assistance-customer-care-is-available">Need Assistance? Customer Care is Available</h2>



23andMe is here to support you. Please contact Customer Care at <a href="mailto:customercare@23andme.com">customercare@23andme.com</a> if you need assistance with navigating these important steps to protect your account.

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