Despite a lingering pandemic, most people in the US say they feel less stressed or anxious this year compared to earlier in the pandemic, according to a new survey by 23andMe.



In this third holiday under the shadow of COVID-19, people appear to have adjusted to the new normal and are more optimistic about their health. Many have returned to their traditional holiday celebrations, according to the survey.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-and-anxiety-remains">Stress and Anxiety remains</h6>



However, about 14 percent say they still feel stressed, and more than 11 percent said they’re anxious about the future. And about 77 percent of those surveyed said they still feel some sort of negativity around their health.



But stress levels have significantly dropped since the beginning of the pandemic, with only about 14 percent of those surveyed saying they were stressed, compared to more than 47 percent in 2020. Similarly, only about 5 percent said they were more depressed this year than last, compared to almost 32 percent in 2020.



Beyond this survey, 23andMe has done extensive research on the genetics of depression and anxiety, which has downstream impacts on health. Anxiety disorders like depression and anxiety are <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression">very common</a>. Up to three-in-ten people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with one during their lifetime, according to prevalence <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-anxiety-disorder">statistics</a> from the National Institute of Mental Health. Researchers believe that genetics combine with other factors to influence how likely an individual is to develop an anxiety disorder.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">A focus on health</h6>



The survey commissioned by 23andMe and conducted by SurveyMonkey on U.S. adults in early November, found that health is understandably a focus for many people. Almost half of the respondents who said they’re focused on their health also said they planned to make healthy lifestyle changes in the new year with a focus on their diet and weight.



Many of those surveyed said the pandemic had impacted their waistline in the last year, with about 12 percent saying they gained weight.



People are also feeling less isolated this year. Perhaps contributing to that shift in optimism is a renewed connection to family and friends. The percentage of respondents who feel less connected to friends and family dropped from 48 percent in 2020 to just 5 percent in 2022. The survey showed a similar drop in the percentage of people saying they were depressed, going from 32 percent in 2020 to just 5 percent this year.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">More family bonding this holiday season</h6>



Lockdowns meant that in the first year of the pandemic, most people said they’d canceled family holiday plans, preferring to stay at home. But this year, that has shifted. Only about 17 percent of people said they would not be having a traditional holiday this year, compared to 62 percent in 2020.



More than 40 percent of those surveyed said they’re returning to their traditional holiday plans this year, and one in five people said they never changed their traditional celebration throughout the whole pandemic.



This is in stark contrast to 2020 when 41 percent of those surveyed said they weren&#8217;t traveling for the holidays, and 34 percent said their friends and family also didn’t plan to visit them.

23andMe Blog

23andMe Blog Team

Despite COVID-19 People Less Anxious This Holiday

At Thanksgiving, families gather and talk about the present and the past. This chance to revisit family history also offers an opportunity to collectively talk about your family health history. November 24th isn’t just Thanksgiving Day; it’s also <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/famhistory/knowing_not_enough.htm">National Family Health History Day</a>. 



A family health history can be an invaluable tool for managing one&#8217;s own health and learning about conditions that may run in families. While medical topics can be a sensitive area for some people, the holiday offers you and your family a unique opportunity to document your health history. So, we’ve gathered a few tips to get you started.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-974762120-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30182" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-974762120-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-974762120-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-974762120-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-974762120-880x587.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-974762120-1180x787.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>When it comes to health, it&#8217;s personal.</li>
</ol>



Keep in mind that medical history can be personal. Start by talking to relatives in your immediate family or others you know well. Be respectful of their privacy, and don&#8217;t ask them to share information if they do not feel comfortable. If you connect with new relatives due to discovering unexpected family relationships, it may require patience. Part of building a connection with a newly discovered family is balancing openness and respect for personal decisions and privacy. 



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="2">
<li>Take advantage of family gatherings.</li>
</ol>



Holidays, celebrations, reunions, and other family gatherings are great times to connect with family members. Try introducing the general idea of putting together a detailed family health history record and explaining why you are asking the questions. Consider setting up a time to speak to family members individually to help protect more sensitive information.



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="3">
<li>Talk to your elders.</li>
</ol>



The older generations of your family are often the ones who knew relatives who have since passed and are the keepers of that family history. Be sure to let them tell their story and ask follow-up questions. Sometimes, telling a story out loud can help someone remember important details.



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="4">
<li>Write it down.</li>
</ol>



Many medical conditions sound the same. Don’t expect to remember everything—be sure to write down what you learn and keep track of the information in a safe place. You can even record the conversation with an audio recorder or voice memo apps. The US Surgeon General has a tool to help you record Family Health History called “My Family Health Portrait.”



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="5">
<li>Identify a family historian.</li>
</ol>



You might be comfortable being a family historian and asking relatives for details about their lives. Or you might be like many others and know nothing at all. Try designating one person in the family to collect and share health information with other family members. If that person becomes someone other than you, share the tips above with them! 



You’ve gathered the family health history. Now what? Read more about putting your family health history to work.

Five Tips for Talking to Relatives About Medical History

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/iStock-596802262-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-25889" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/iStock-596802262-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/iStock-596802262-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/iStock-596802262-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/iStock-596802262-1-880x587.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/iStock-596802262-1-1180x787.jpg 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/iStock-596802262-1.jpg 1254w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



You’re not sure there’s enough turkey to go around, everyone’s had a little too much to drink, and you’re stuck making small talk with a third cousin you just met.



When you’re gathered around the Thanksgiving table with friends and relatives of all generations, you don’t want to add to your stress by dredging up old family dramas or bringing up potentially divisive topics.



So we’ve compiled some safe subjects that capture the holiday spirit and remove stress from the menu–from Neanderthal families to the genetics of gratitude. Consider them three secret ingredients for an interesting–and conflict-free-dinner conversation.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-family-ties">Family ties</h6>



In the past several decades, we’ve learned quite a bit about Neanderthals, our closest extinct human relative who disappeared roughly 40,000 years ago.



There’s evidence that Neanderthals used tools, created art, and, as a result of interbreeding with modern humans, left a<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/why-23andme-love-neanderthals-and-you-should-too/"> genetic legacy</a> that impacts many of us today.



And a new discovery suggests they may even have shared some of our social structures.



An international research team<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05283-y"> identified</a> the first known Neanderthal family: a father, his teenage daughter, and others who appear to be close cousins.



The family was found alongside stone tools and bison bones in Chagyrskaya Cave, located in the Altai Mountains near the Russian border with Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and China.&nbsp;



Researchers used the DNA from vertebrae, teeth, and other bones to learn more about this Neanderthal family–from their social organization to their migration and interaction patterns.



They found very little genetic diversity within this clan, suggesting that Neanderthals in this area lived in small groups.



But they did discover a high degree of diversity in the mitochondrial DNA passed from mothers to their children. This indicates that these Neanderthal women tended to leave the group where they were born and move from band to band. 



Spur some dialogue this Thanksgiving by contemplating the role our distant Neanderthal cousins played in the human story. You can even view and compare evidence of Neanderthal ancestry in your genome with 23andMe’s <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/212873707-Neanderthal-Ancestry-Report-Basics#:~:text=With%20the%20Neanderthal%20Ancestry%20Report,ancestor%20and%20then%20converged%20again.">Neanderthal Report</a>.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cheers">Cheers</h6>



Why does a glass of cabernet turn your cheeks red but only makes your opinionated uncle louder? Look to the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/wellness/alcohol-flush-reaction/">ALDH2 gene</a>, which contains instructions for making a protein that helps the body process alcohol.&nbsp;



When we drink, a toxin called acetaldehyde is produced as the body breaks down the alcohol. The body then clears out this toxin by breaking it down further.&nbsp;



In people with a particular ALDH2 genetic variant, this enzyme is less efficient at clearing away acetaldehyde than in people without the variant, which can result in what’s known as the alcohol flush reaction and other unpleasant symptoms like nausea and sleepiness.



The variant is most common in individuals with East Asian ancestry. Scientists believe the alcohol flush variant first appeared in ancient China due to a random genetic mutation and spread to neighboring regions as people migrated.



When you’re passing the wine around this year, consider how your genetic makeup can influence your tastes and preferences. And you might even think about serving a good non-alcoholic drink option, too.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-genetics-of-gratitude">The genetics of gratitude</h6>



Thanksgiving offers a moment to pause–take stock–and be grateful for what we have. But some may find it easier to feel and express gratitude than others.



Genetics may help explain that gap.



In a study published in<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24396004/"> Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience</a>, researchers from the University of North Carolina and Ohio State found that specific variants in the CD38 gene were associated with the quality and frequency of expressions of gratitude toward a romantic partner both in the lab and in daily life.



The CD38 gene is a regulator of oxytocin release and social processes. <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=23andme+blog+oxytocin&amp;oq=23andme+blog+oxytocin&amp;aqs=chrome..69i57j33i160.2940j0j7&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">Oxytocin</a> is a neuropeptide that impacts pro-social behaviors like trust and affection. It’s involved in all social interactions–from caring for an infant to hugging a romantic partner.



COMT may be another gene that influences gratitude. A<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032716316329?via%3Dihub"> 2017 study</a> revealed that individuals with one version of this gene experienced more gratitude, while people with another variant reported feeling less grateful.



Whether you’re genetically disposed to appreciation or not, there’s still a slew of well-documented benefits for giving thanks around the table, including higher levels of self-reported<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17439760.2011.602099"> well-being</a> and better<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3489271/"> physical health</a>.&nbsp;

Genetic Conversation Starters for the Thanksgiving Table

Recently discovered 17 donor siblings? Unsure when to tell your cousin about her secret sister?



No genetic testing conundrum is too big—or too complicated—for Chelsea Handler.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dear-chelsea">Dear Chelsea</h6>



The comedian and TV personality brought her signature blend of caustic, straightforward humor to the latest episode of<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spit/id1422827494"> Spit</a>, an iHeartMedia and 23andMe podcast.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-larger"><img decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Dear_Chelsea-880x880.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30778"/></figure>



Spit, which is hosted by Baratunde Thurston, explores how DNA gives us a new perspective on who we are and how we are all connected. The show looks at both the personal and the broader implications of genetic testing with a mix of analysis, camaraderie, and the intimacy that comes from people sharing their stories.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-family-history">Family History</h6>



Over the course of 47 minutes, Chelsea answered listener questions and doled out expletive-laden advice.&nbsp;



She reflected on her family history (she’s 50% Ashkenazi Jewish) and revealed some of the health insights she discovered after taking the 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service, including one of her Pharmacogenetic reports that predicted she was an ultrarapid drug metabolizer* and may process certain medications faster (a result she deemed “very on the nose”).&nbsp;



When caller Katie wondered if she should spill the beans about a secret sister just a week before her cousin’s wedding, Chelsea dove into the notion of responsibility, and suggested that Katie’s dad should be the one to break the news. “I would encourage your dad to have that conversation and also let him know – if he doesn’t, you will,” she said. “I like threatening people,” she joked, “I think that’s a great approach.”



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



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-small-font-size" id="h-note">NOTE</h6>



*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 and does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific 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. Results for SLCO1B1 and 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 Pharmacogenetics reports, visit 23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics

Comedian Chelsea Handler Has (Almost) All the Answers

This week, we released a new 23andMe+ report Powered by 23andMe Research on Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition that leads to damage to the thyroid gland and a decline in the production of thyroid hormones.



For those with Hashimoto’s disease, the damage to the thyroid often leads to thyroid hormone deficiency, known as hypothyroidism.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-hashimoto-s-disease">Understanding Hashimoto’s disease</h6>



The thyroid is a small gland in the lower part of the neck just in front of the trachea. The gland produces thyroid hormones that help regulate such things as our metabolism, heart rate and body temperature. The overproduction or underproduction of those hormones can lead to a host of problems.



In the case of Hashimoto’s disease, also known as Hashimoto thyroiditis, the body’s own immune system triggers inflammation of the thyroid. This damages the thyroid and over time it can’t produce enough hormones to properly regulate these bodily functions. This is known as hypothyroidism.



In some cases, the inflammation of the thyroid might also lead to noticeable swelling in the lower neck, which is called a goiter.



It’s estimated that about five percent of the population in the US have hypothyroidism. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-report">A New Report</h6>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hashimoto-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30678" width="283" height="391" title="hashimotos-story-1.b2dd63bb9ff2" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hashimoto-2.jpg 566w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hashimoto-2-217x300.jpg 217w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 283px) 100vw, 283px" /></figure>



23andMe’s new Hashimoto’s disease report is powered by data from people who have consented to participate in 23andMe research. It uses machine learning techniques to estimate an individual’s likelihood of developing Hashimoto’s disease.



This estimate is made using a statistical model that includes 11,786 genetic markers associated with Hashimoto’s disease, as well as information on an individual’s ethnicity and birth sex. See our <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodology_May2020.pdf">white paper</a> to learn more about the science behind the report.



Beyond genetics, there are other factors that influence a person’s likelihood of developing Hashimoto’s disease. There’s medical consensus that a healthy lifestyle&nbsp; promotes a healthier immune system and thyroid. So, a balanced diet with healthy levels of vitamins and minerals is important for keeping one’s thyroid healthy, as is regular exercise and sleep.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hashimoto-s-disease-symptoms">Hashimoto’s Disease Symptoms</h6>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hashimoto-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30677" width="304" height="418" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hashimoto-1.jpg 608w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Hashimoto-1-218x300.jpg 218w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 304px) 100vw, 304px" /></figure>



For those with Hashimoto’s disease, the symptoms can vary between people and change over time as the thyroid produces fewer hormones.



Some of the more common symptoms are profound fatigue, a sensitivity to cold, stiffness in the joints or muscle pain. In addition, those with the condition may also gain weight or deal with constipation. Many also suffer from depression.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-hashimoto-s-disease">Managing Hashimoto’s Disease</h6>



Treatment for Hashimoto’s disease typically involves the use of thyroid hormone supplements. This can help alleviate many of the symptoms, and it can reduce the risk of developing some long-term problems with the disease.



However, left untreated, hypothyroidism from the condition can lead to other health problems. Some of those problems include heart disease, complications in pregnancy and reproductive dysfunctions.



If you have concerns about Hashimoto’s disease, talk to a healthcare professional.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn More</h6>



23andMe’s new Hashimoto’s disease report (powered by 23andMe Research) is available to 23andMe+ members. To view your report, go <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/prs.hashimotos/">here</a>.



Not a customer? Find out more<a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/"> here</a>.

New 23andMe+ Report on Hashimoto’s Disease

A new study by 23andMe found that low-income women are more than two times as likely to have self-reported that they had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than men of any income, and the study confirmed strong links to other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.



The unpublished study is among the most extensive studies ever done on PTSD and included a diverse cohort not limited to veterans or other groups that had in the past been the focus of PTSD research. It included data from about 3 million 23andMe customers who consented to participate in research, 400,000 of whom self-reported being diagnosed with or treated for PTSD. While previous studies have shown that women are more likely to be diagnosed with PTSD, this finding indicates that the difference is even more profound for low-income women, even when compared to other women of higher socioeconomic status.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-snapshot-of-the-effects-of-trauma">A Snapshot of the Effects of Trauma</h2>



Trauma is a part of life for many of us. According to a <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/psychological-medicine/article/epidemiology-of-traumatic-event-exposure-worldwide-results-from-the-world-mental-health-survey-consortium/F06E14BA4DF09A29CCA81909C285ABE9">World Mental Health Survey</a>, 70 percent of people will experience some sort of traumatic event. However, only a tiny percentage of those who experience trauma develop the long-term intense, emotional, and physical symptoms that characterize PTSD.



In the United States, about six percent of the population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, according to<a href="https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_adults.asp"> data from the Veterans Administration</a>. This aligns with 23andMe’s data, which also found that about six percent of the participants in this study had self-reported a diagnosis of PTSD or reported that they’d been treated for PTSD.



Henri Garrison-Desany, a former 23andMe intern, led the work for this internal study during his time at 23andMe. Henri is now a postdoc at Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health.



Henri noted that PTSD offers a vivid example of the interplay between environment (a traumatic event) and genetic factors that come together to impact mental health. In other words, a person may be more genetically predisposed to experience PTSD, but it’s the trauma that triggers the condition. While our study was limited in that it did not allow for follow-up, for instance, it offers an essential snapshot of individuals who report experiencing PTSD.



“Data from 23andMe shows the importance of large cohorts as well,” Henri said. “Because [PTSD] is a relatively rare diagnosis compared to depression or anxiety, having a large database helps to determine enough cases to run analyses.”



Unlike some other studies, the individuals included in our study self-reported their diagnosis or treatment for PTSD. In addition, this study does not characterize the type or timing of that trauma. However, the wide lens approach allowed our researchers to ensure our study would include individuals who may not be included in other studies. 



The work also adds essential data to 23andMe’s broader research into depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions.



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



While commonly associated with experience in combat, post-traumatic stress disorder can develop after any trauma, such as from a sexual or physical assault. Even a violent traffic accident can lead to PTSD.&nbsp;



PTSD is a<a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd#part_2239"> mental health condition </a>characterized by such things as mood changes, anxiety, or sleep disruption. Some of those with the condition experience physical symptoms such as a racing heart rate. It can last for extended periods. Those with the condition might feel as if they are re-experiencing the original trauma through nightmares, flashbacks, or physical symptoms. People with PTSD might also make an extra effort to avoid places or events, or people that might re-trigger their trauma. Those who have PTSD also have what is called “reactive symptoms.” These symptoms put them on edge or make them more easily startled, angry, or interfere with their sleep. In addition, people with PTSD also may experience cognition issues, forgetting details of their trauma or having feelings of guilt around it.  



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="512" height="425" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PTSD-Income-Graph.png" alt="" class="wp-image-30699" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PTSD-Income-Graph.png 512w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PTSD-Income-Graph-300x249.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">23andMe data on Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome broken down by sex and income. The data is from about three million 23andMe customers who consented to participate in research. Among those 400,000 reported a PTSD diagnosis.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-depression-amp-anxiety">Depression &amp; Anxiety</h2>



23andMe’s study also found that people with PTSD often also have anxiety or depression, a link found in several other studies.&nbsp;



As part of 23andMe’s research, Henri conducted an environmental-wide association study looking at 200 other health conditions.



Anxiety and depression were most commonly associated with PTSD. Not everyone who has anxiety or depression and goes through trauma ends up with PTSD, but having either of those two conditions more than doubles the odds of being self-diagnosed with PTSD. Yet other conditions were also associated with PTSD, such as insomnia, panic attacks, a disability, and chronic pain. People with PTSD also were more likely to rate their general health lower than those without PTSD.



23andMe’s study did not look at the type or timing of the trauma that led to the PTSD diagnosis. For instance, our study didn’t separate combat veterans or sexual abuse victims. Other studies, including those that looked at combat-related trauma, have shown that the<a href="http://sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0887618516300093?via%3Dihub"> type of trauma</a> often affects the severity of PTSD symptoms. In addition, our study did not discern if those self-diagnosed with PTSD had these mental health conditions before or after suffering the trauma that led to their PTSD.



The significance of clustering other mental health conditions with PTSD is that diagnosing these conditions can sometimes be problematic, said Henri. Many of those with PTSD often have other mental health concerns. Understanding this is important for correctly diagnosing and treating those conditions.



“Future studies should look further into the potential for gene-environment interactions that may lead to PTSD diagnosis,” Henri said.



Researchers who are interested in collaborating with 23andMe can find out more <a href="https://research.23andme.com/collaborate/#research">here</a>.

Anxiety and Depression Associated with Higher Risk for PTSD

By&nbsp;Brianne&nbsp;Kirkpatrick,&nbsp;MS, LCGC*



Genetic counselors are in demand now more than ever, and yet many people don’t understand the vital role they play in healthcare.&nbsp;So, in honor of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nsgc.org/page/genetic-counselor-awareness-day">Genetic Counselor Awareness Day</a>&nbsp;(November 10th), we’re sharing about this valuable genetics profession and profiling our very own genetic counselors at 23andMe who make the work we do possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-genetic-counselors-do">What do genetic counselors do?</h6>



Genetic counselors have specialized training and education in both medical genetics and counseling. Their role is to help guide and support people and their families so they better understand their options for genetic testing and how results may affect them and other family members.&nbsp;



As their professional title suggests, genetic counselors lean upon their background training in counseling skills to help people looking for support to interpret and understand their test results. In most cases, genetic counselors work in clinics or hospitals where they might specialize in areas such as prenatal care, pediatrics, oncology or cardiology.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-does-23andme-have-genetic-counselors">Does 23andMe have genetic counselors?</h6>



We are proud to have four genetic counselors in various roles at 23andMe.&nbsp;While 23andMe genetic counselors do not provide individual genetic counseling services to our millions of customers, they are able to help customers at a broader level.&nbsp;



The work our genetic counselors do is diverse and supports the various&nbsp;<a href="https://www.23andme.com/about/">values that guide our company</a>.&nbsp;What this looks like day-to-day ranges from ensuring that reports customers receive are clear, accurate, and understandable to answering questions from other clinicians about 23andMe’s Personal Genome Service.&nbsp;



Our counselors have been instrumental in developing videos and written content, as well as providing training for our growing network of Lemonaid Health clinicians in supporting customers seeking out a Genetic Report Consultation. As part of the genetic report consultation, Lemonaid Health clinicians offer consultations to help their patients understand the role genes could play in their health, within the context of their health history and overall risks. Together, these services help customers and their families, as well as their clinicians, make use of their genetic health information.



Here’s a little more about each of our genetic counselors and in their own words, what it’s like to be a genetic counselor at 23andMe.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/After-the-Click-Featured-Image-1024x323.png" alt="" title="After the Click Featured Image"/></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stacey-detweiler-ms-lcgc-medical-affairs-manager-medical-device-and-clinical-genetics-nbsp">Stacey Detweiler, MS, LCGC – Medical Affairs Manager, Medical Device and Clinical Genetics&nbsp;</h6>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="608" height="607" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Stacey-Square.png" alt="" class="wp-image-30666" style="width:152px;height:152px" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Stacey-Square.png 608w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Stacey-Square-150x150.png 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Stacey-Square-300x300.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Stacey-Square-271x271.png 271w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Stacey-Square-372x372.png 372w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Stacey-Square-574x574.png 574w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 608px) 100vw, 608px" /></figure>



Stacey joined 23andMe in 2016 as a Medical Affairs Associate, having worked beforehand as a genetic counselor and clinical research coordinator at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Palo Alto Medical Foundation. She’s an active member of the <a href="https://www.aboutgeneticcounselors.org/">National Society of Genetic Counselors</a>, previously serving as co-chair for their Precision Medicine Special Interest Group. As part of her role as a Medical Affairs Manager, Stacey focuses on product, clinical, and educational development. This means she helps ensure our product and marketing include consumer-friendly information that’s medically accurate.



“I love the people! In my role, I have the opportunity to interact with people from all over the company.&nbsp; Every day I’m working with people who are passionate about genetics and, just like me, they want to share that passion with others. Being part of a team focused on making genetics accessible and paving a path towards precision medicine is an honor and a joy.”&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anne-greb-ms-cgc-nbsp-director-clinical-genetics-education-and-outreach">Anne Greb, MS, CGC –&nbsp;Director, Clinical Genetics, Education and Outreach</h6>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="250" height="250" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Anne-Greb-250x250-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-31068" style="width:152px" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Anne-Greb-250x250-1.jpg 250w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Anne-Greb-250x250-1-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Anne Greb, MS, CGC, 23andMe Lead, Medical Education</figcaption></figure>



Anne joined 23andMe in 2018 and leads our Clinical Genetics and<a href="https://medical.23andme.com/medical-team/"> Education Team</a>. She specializes in educating clinicians on how to answer questions from patients about their 23andMe test results. Anne is a board-certified genetic counselor with over 30 years of experience in genetic counseling program leadership, medical education, and patient care. Before coming to 23andMe, she directed the genetic counseling program at Sarah Lawrence College, where she increased the program’s training capacity in order to graduate more genetic counselors. She served as president of the American Board of Genetic Counseling, the agency that ensures certified genetic counselors meet high standards for clinical care.



“For the past three decades, I eagerly anticipated this new era of precision and genomic medicine. What I didn’t anticipate was the widespread enthusiasm in genetics as people want to know more about their <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/">health, ancestry</a>, and other <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/">human traits</a>. At 23andMe I develop educational resources and programs so clinicians can take advantage of this enthusiasm and answer patients’ questions about the role genetics plays in health and wellness.“



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-31069" style="width:152px" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-150x150.png 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-300x300.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-768x768.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-880x880.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-1180x1180.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-271x271.png 271w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-372x372.png 372w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-574x574.png 574w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O-980x980.png 980w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Marlena-O.png 1899w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marlena-orthlieb-nbsp-mgcs-lcgc-medical-affairs-associate">Marlena Orthlieb,&nbsp;MGCS, LCGC – Medical Affairs Associate</h6>



Marlena joined 23andMe as a Medical Affairs Associate in 2022, having spent the three prior years in a perinatal genetics clinic. In her role as a perinatal genetic counselor at LabCorp Women’s Health, she provided direct patient care and provider support at a maternal-fetal medicine clinic. Marlena brings to 23andMe a passion for making genetics more understandable and accessible to everyone with a heart for advocacy around diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare. 



Her roles are varied at 23andMe’s, ranging from communication and research efforts to product and service development. 



“For me, the best part of working at 23andMe is the opportunity to be creative! I love that I get to use my genetic counseling expertise in ways I never have before while working towards creating a new future of precision and preventative care. Wellness is not a “one size fits all” approach, but a lot of times we have silos in health care, especially when it comes to genetics. I am thrilled that we are building unprecedented opportunities for people to access and benefit from their genome so that they can apply these insights towards living their healthiest life!”



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amy-sturm-ms-cgc-director-of-population-health-genomics">Amy Sturm, MS, CGC – Director of Population Health Genomics</h6>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-30664" style="width:152px" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-150x150.png 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-300x300.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-768x767.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-880x880.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-271x271.png 271w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-372x372.png 372w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-574x574.png 574w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square-980x980.png 980w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Amy-Square.png 1054w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Amy also joined the 23andMe team in 2022, bringing over 20 years of experience as a genetic counselor to her new role as Director of Population Health Genomics at 23andMe. Having worked at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Ohio State University Medical Center, and Geisinger Health, her roles have ranged from taking care of patients and families as a clinical genetic counselor to heading large research initiatives to developing new programs including population genomic screening and cardiovascular genetics programs. Amy works within the Product Organization at 23andMe and interacts with many teams, including product science and research and development, with the goals of building new products and bringing to life 23andMe’s vision and commitment to integrating genetic information into care for all. 



“I’m thrilled to help build a path for individuals on their health journey. They can come to 23andMe, get their DNA insights, and learn personalized, preventive, proactive recommendations for their health and actions they and their families can take. We can provide the next steps on that journey and can also now deliver telehealth services via Lemonaid Health, now part of the 23andMe family.”&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-would-i-need-to-go-to-a-genetic-counselor-nbsp">Why would I need to go to a genetic counselor?&nbsp;</h6>



There are several reasons you might benefit from genetic counseling. If you’re seeking to better understand a test result, for example, or have a known genetic condition in your family. You might also meet with a genetic counselor if you are planning to start a family and are concerned about an inherited condition or are working with a fertility specialist and considering genetic testing as part of the process. 



Here are a few more reasons: If you have a family history of cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, a heart disorder, or another genetic condition, a genetic counselor may help you better understand what that specific history might mean for your own risks or for others in your family. Some people seek out genetic counseling after having a genetic test and learning that they have a genetic variant that puts them at a higher risk for a condition.&nbsp;



In all of these cases, genetic counselors can help you explore what the next steps might be for you and your family.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-can-i-find-a-genetic-counselor-to-work-with">Where can I find a genetic counselor to work with?</h6>



There are several resources out there for you if you might be considering or interested in working with a genetic counselor. Our recent post on&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/health-traits/report-for-healthcare-provider/">sharing your 23andMe report with your healthcare provider</a>&nbsp;helps 23andMe customers get started on the path.&nbsp;Customers may also work with a healthcare provider from Lemonaid Health,&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/lemonaid-health/genetic-report-consults/">which is now part of the 23andMe family</a>.&nbsp;This is a group of clinicians who work with our genetic counselors and have been trained to answer questions about a growing number of 23andMe reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Another option is to search the website of the&nbsp;<a href="http://aboutgeneticcounselors.com/">National Society of Genetic Counselors</a>. The site is loaded with helpful information and offers a useful start in exploring whether using a genetic counselor is right for you among the many resources in the NSGC’s Find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.findageneticcounselor.com/">A Genetic Counselor</a>&nbsp;tool. You can use the tool to search a database of thousands of genetic counselors who work in the U.S. and Canada by name, location, or even by area of specialty.&nbsp;



Beyond that great resource, you can also either seek help from your doctor or other healthcare providers. They may be able to provide you with a recommendation for a genetic counselor. Finally, there is also great information at the&nbsp;<a href="https://customer.abgc.net/abgc/ABGCwcm/Find_Counselor/ABGCwcm/Contact_Management/FindCounselor.aspx?hkey=94273207-1a6e-4c6d-ac24-0c6b3793c8cd">American Board of Genetic Counseling</a>.



Genetic counselors, learn about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.23andme.com/careers/jobs/6399846002/">current opportunities to join the team at 23andMe</a>.



*Brianne Kirkpatrick is a consultant for 23andMe.

Genetic Counselors and Their Roles at 23andMe

<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driven-by-a-fascination-with-his-pet-fish-named-calvin-high-school-student-indeever-madireddy-became-the-first-person-to-sequence-the-genome-of-a-freshwater-angelfish">Driven by a fascination with his pet fish named Calvin, high school student Indeever Madireddy became the first person to sequence the genome of a freshwater angelfish.</h6>



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Several weeks ago, Rich Abdell, Ph.D., a bioinformatician at the University of Pennsylvania, sent out a<a href="https://twitter.com/richabdill/status/1582483998554525697?s=20&amp;t=KEw3XM8667HYr8gXrLuo7g">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://twitter.com/richabdill/status/1582483998554525697?s=20&amp;t=KEw3XM8667HYr8gXrLuo7g" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tweet&nbsp;</a>to his 2,100 followers: “From what I can tell, the first freshwater angelfish genome was just&nbsp;<a href="https://www.micropublication.org/journals/biology/micropub-biology-000654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">published by a high schooler</a>&nbsp;using a MinION to sequence&nbsp;the DNA of his dead pet.”



Within a day, the post had amassed thousands of likes and over 500 retweets, as scientists from all over the country chimed in to express their support.



“I literally love everything about this, full stop,” replied an assistant professor. “What an incredible example of what can be achieved with early access to molecular biology resources,” a neuroscientist also tweeted in response.



As the tweet continued circulating online, a friend alerted 17-year-old Indeever that he was going viral.



“My first thought,” Indeever said, “was, ‘oh gosh, what did I do?’”



Indeever is a senior at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley in San Jose, California. He’s an avid fishkeeper, which he layers on top of his other interests: riding his bike, conducting research projects, competing in science competitions, and helping with his two younger brothers, who, he quipped, are “quite a lot of work.”



We recently spoke with him about his approach to work, how crowdfunding and community labs can help democratize science, and why young researchers “just need to get started.” The conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-did-you-get-interested-in-genetics">How did you get interested in genetics?</h6>



It was kind of spontaneous. I’ve always really been into fishkeeping and raising fish. I had a pair of angelfish that would always lay eggs, but they’d never hatch. So, I decided that the next time my angelfish laid eggs, I would raise the baby fish to ensure they would survive, which is exactly what I did in August 2020. I used a pipette, moved the eggs to a new aquarium, and raised the fish until they were fully grown.



Unfortunately, one of the angelfish that I raised died in March 2022.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/6-1-1-scaled-e1667861806388-1024x722.jpg" alt="Indeever lab" class="wp-image-30670"/></figure>



I do my research at&nbsp;<a href="https://biocurious.org/">BioCurious</a>&nbsp;which is a local biohacker space for DIY biologists. There I always saw many biologists doing sequencing work. This made me curious about what sequencing had been done with fish. Weeks before my fish died I learned that no one had sequenced the genome of a freshwater angelfish. At the time, no reference genome was available through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/">NCBI</a>&nbsp;(National Center for Biotechnology Information).



So when my pet fish died, I decided to sequence its genome. And that’s where this all took off.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-before-we-continue-what-was-your-fish-s-name">Before we continue, what was your fish’s name?</h6>



&nbsp;His name was Calvin.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-talk-us-through-your-sequencing-work-and-your-research-process">Talk us through your sequencing work and your research process.</h6>



When Calvin died, I rushed him to the BioCurious lab so I could freeze him in the -80°C freezer to keep his DNA stable.



Then I needed to figure out how to sequence. I spent the next month doing background research and learning genomics from scratch.



(Editor’s note:&nbsp;Reader in case you forgot, Indeever is a high school senior.)



I’ve had prior research experience in molecular biology and I’m familiar with the lab equipment available in my local lab. I came across nanopore technology and its long-read sequencing ability. This technology would allow me to&nbsp;de novoassemble the genome. So, I purchased a new nanopore sequencer and flow cell.



I used a New England Biolabs Genomic DNA extraction kit to extract DNA from Calvin’s muscle tissue. I did have to do some trial and error and experiment with the standard protocol to figure out what would give me the best DNA yield.



After I extracted the DNA, I had to prepare the genomic library and the DNA so that the nanopore device could properly sequence it.&nbsp;



I worked for two weekends in the lab to obtain the raw sequencing data.&nbsp;The bioinformatics work that came after that took a lot more time—around two months.



And then, I had to screen the genome to ensure there weren&#8217;t any contaminants.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-did-you-learn-or-find-anything-else-during-your-sequencing-work">Did you learn or find anything else during your sequencing work?&nbsp;</h6>



Interestingly, there was a bacterial contaminant in my sequencing reads.



<h6 class="has-text-align-left wp-block-heading" id="h-could-that-have-been-the-cause-of-calvin-s-death">Could that have been the cause of Calvin’s death?</h6>



It could have been. I was hesitant to say that in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.micropublication.org/journals/biology/micropub-biology-000654">paper</a>. Bacteria is a common fish pathogen that&#8217;s just naturally present in aquariums and on fish. At the same time, it&#8217;s an opportunistic pathogen, and if a fish is already ill or injured, the bacteria will exacerbate the problem and kill it.



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So, unfortunately, I couldn&#8217;t say for sure. I wish I could, but I just pointed it out in my paper and left it at that. It would have been interesting to see if that was true.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-addition-to-performing-your-work-at-a-community-lab-you-also-relied-on-crowdfunding-can-you-tell-us-more-about-that">In addition to performing your work at a community lab, you also relied on crowdfunding. Can you tell us more about that?</h6>



I used a lot of my own funds for this research, but I also fundraised on<a href="https://experiment.com/">&nbsp;experiment.com</a>&nbsp;so that I could buy another flow cell for the nanopore sequencer to increase my sequencing yield.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-did-it-feel-like-to-open-twitter-and-discover-your-project-had-generated-a-lot-of-interest">What did it feel like to open Twitter and discover your project had generated a lot of interest?</h6>



It was crazy! I wasn’t on Twitter. In fact, the only time I tweeted was for the fundraising I was doing for this project.



A friend of mine reached out and said, &#8216;hey, do you know you&#8217;re going viral on Twitter?&#8217; And I thought, ‘oh gosh, what&#8217;s going on? What did I do?&#8217; And then it turns out it was the angelfish work!



It’s been a great experience. I’ve met so many new scientists and researchers; it’s surreal.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-you-think-it-resonated-with-people">Why do you think it resonated with people?</h6>



I’ve noticed that there&#8217;s a big movement in the scientific community toward democratizing science and making it accessible to all. And I think this project exemplified that.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-you-re-not-in-the-lab-sequencing-genomes-what-do-you-like-to-do-for-fun">When you’re not in the lab sequencing genomes, what do you like to do for fun?</h6>



I raise a lot of fish. I have over 100 fish—koi, angelfish, goldfish…I even have a bichir, which is a kind of an eel, but way cooler.



Outside of fishkeeping, I do a lot of other research work. One of my previous projects was about CRISPR and how we could use the CRISPR-Cas9 enzyme as a tool to augment the human immune system and similarly protect against viral infections. I competed in various science competitions with that research.



I also have two younger brothers, who are quite a lot of work! And I enjoy riding my bike. I really like electric bikes, actually, so that&#8217;s what I do in my free time.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-any-future-research-projects-on-the-horizon">Any future research projects on the horizon?</h6>



Right now, I&#8217;m applying to colleges, and that’s taking up most of my time. I’m interested in sequencing the transcriptome of the angelfish, so I think that&#8217;s next.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-advice-do-you-have-for-young-researchers">What advice do you have for young researchers?</h6>



There is so much I want to say, but for starters, don’t be intimidated by the research world. It might be easy to see my research and wonder how I did it, but this was not my first research project. Throughout high school, I conducted independent research work.&nbsp;



Anyone can do research; you just have to get started. Find what you&#8217;re interested in and pursue it. Don’t be afraid of what other people think or even what the results will be.&nbsp;



Also, setbacks are expected. A setback simply means that you have reached a point where you are pushing the boundaries of science.&nbsp;It is a good sign and that must not deter you. You should definitely try to anticipate issues and find multiple pathways to work through or around them.&nbsp;



Finally, learn from the reviews, wisdom, and experiences of others while believing in and improving your own judgment and abilities. No one can learn everything by themselves, and it’s often other people who have interesting insights.&nbsp;



The nice thing about open science and the internet and computers and all that is that you can do research&nbsp;anywhere. From a lab, from home…anywhere!

The High Schooler who Sequenced the Angelfish

For the past several months, we’ve been working on a redesign of this blog. Today we’re excited to introduce you to our new and improved look.



We aimed to give the site a streamlined, cohesive feel – with improved navigation, larger images, and a pared down, mobile-friendly user experience.



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<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-features">New Features</h6>



The revamped homepage allows us to showcase the blog’s most newsworthy and popular posts. And a new search function and navigation bar helps our readers quickly find the information and topics they’re looking for.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-world-of-genetics">Exploring the world of Genetics</h6>



We created the blog in 2007 to inspire engagement and conversation. Since then, we’ve shared thousands of stories – from <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/health-traits/after-the-click-drug-reaction/">customer accounts</a> to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/therapeutics/drug-discovery-explained/">expert perspectives</a> to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/23andme-research/we-got-the-beat/">research updates</a>.&nbsp;



We hope this new design will provide a simplified jumping off point for you to explore our content and the exciting, complex world of genetics.&nbsp;

Latest Posts — Page 31