23andMe is a gift as unique as those who receive it. It offers insights that are personal and often profound.



Throughout this holiday season, we’re highlighting a few people who shared&nbsp; how the gift of 23andMe changed their lives.



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For Christmas one year, Josh King received a 23andMe Health + Ancestry kit. Josh assumed his results would tell him a bit about his genealogy.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Josh-King-tw.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30886" width="300" height="272" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Josh-King-tw.jpg 600w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Josh-King-tw-300x272.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Josh King</figcaption></figure>



“But I had no idea it would be pivotal to my personal health,” he said.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hereditary-hemochromatosis">Hereditary hemochromatosis</h6>



After returning his sample to the lab and waiting a few weeks, he received an email that his reports were ready. Josh was surprised to learn he had two genetic variants that made him much more likely to develop something called hereditary hemochromatosis.* 



Hemochromatosis is a genetic condition that can lead to iron overload. That can in turn cause damage to the joints, liver, pancreas, or heart, among other things. 



It’s a genetic condition that can lead to iron overload, which in turn can cause damage to the joints, liver, pancreas, or heart, among other things. It’s most common in people of Northern European ancestry, and symptoms are usually diagnosed in males between the ages of 40 and 60. Josh was in his early 30s at the time.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-visit-to-the-doctor">A visit to the doctor</h6>



Accordingly, he went to see his doctor, shared with him his report. Confirmatory testing from his doctor showed that Josh indeed had iron overload. His doctor told him he had never diagnosed the condition in someone as young as Josh. Fortunately treatment is relatively straightforward, regular blood draws and reducing alcohol and iron-rich food in your diet.



“I have spoken with many people who are hesitant about genetic health data &#8211; they&#8217;re not sure they would want to know any negative news,” Josh said. “I gently suggest they get over it. Data is your friend. These genetic markers are not the indelible hand of fate. You might learn something that you can easily manage now and add years, or decades, to your life.”&nbsp;



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 *The 23andMe PGS 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&nbsp; 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.The Hereditary Hemochromatosis (HFE?Related) genetic health risk report is indicated for reporting of the C282Y and H63D variants in the HFE gene and describes if a person has variants associated with an increased risk of developing iron overload related to hereditary hemochromatosis.&nbsp; The variants included in this report are best studied in people of European descent.

23andMe Blog

23andMe Blog Team

A Gift of Knowing

An Australian actor’s <a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/11/chris-hemsworth-exclusive-interview-alzheimers-limitless">recent announcement </a>that he has two copies of the APOE4 variant – which is linked to an increased risk of developing<a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/late-onset-alzheimers/"> late-onset Alzheimer’s disease</a> – has been making headlines all over the world.



There are actually two types of Alzheimer’s disease: late-onset and early-onset. Late-onset Alzheimer’s is the most common, with symptoms of memory loss, cognitive decline, and personality changes beginning after the age of 65.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="435" height="310" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/alzheimers.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1902" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/alzheimers.jpg 435w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/alzheimers-300x214.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 435px) 100vw, 435px" /></figure>



In the United States alone, about<a href="https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf"> 6.5 million people</a> age 65 and older are living with late-onset Alzheimer’s. And that figure is expected to almost <a href="https://www.alz.org/media/documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf">double</a> by 2050.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-alzheimer-s">Understanding Alzheimer’s</h6>



Late-onset Alzheimer’s is progressive, which means it develops over time. Early stages may result in mild cognitive impairments beyond what would be expected as a natural result of aging.



According to the CDC, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/aging/healthybrain/ten-warning-signs.html">symptoms</a> of Alzheimer’s can include:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Memory loss that disrupts normal life.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Challenges in planning or solving problems.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure.</li>



<li>Confusion with time or place.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relations.</li>



<li>New problems with words in speaking or writing.</li>



<li>Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.</li>



<li>Decreased or poor judgment.</li>



<li>Withdrawal from work or social activities.</li>



<li>Changes in mood and personality.</li>
</ul>



In later stages, as the disease becomes more severe, these symptoms may become more pronounced, and daily functioning can be severely impaired.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-the-causes">What are the causes?</h6>



Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease is influenced by genetics, but genetics is only one component of why some people develop the condition.



Researchers believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors all play a role.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-apoe4-connection">The APOE4 connection</h6>



The E4 variant in the APOE gene is the most common genetic variant associated with an increased risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Having one copy increases the risk by around threefold. Two copies of the APOE4 gene increase risk by around<a href="https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf"> eight-to 12-fold</a>, although the impact of the E4 variant on risk may vary based on a person’s ethnicity.&nbsp;



The APOE gene is involved in making a protein called apolipoprotein E, which helps control the levels of cholesterol and fats in the blood. It is not known exactly how the E4 variant increases the risk of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.&nbsp;



It’s important to note that having one or two copies of the E4 variant does not mean that you will necessarily develop late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. There are other genetic and non-genetic factors that also play a role, including age, family health history, sex, heart health, and ethnicity.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-can-i-find-out-if-i-have-an-increased-genetic-risk">How can I find out if I have an increased genetic risk?</h6>



You can find out whether you may have an increased risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease based on your genetics with the 23andMe <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/ghr.alzheimers/">Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease Genetic Health Risk report</a>*, which looks for the E4 variant.&nbsp;



According to our data, APOE is among the most sought-after reports by consumers pursuing their own genetic testing. And research suggests there might be a benefit to knowing your genetic status. A study published in<a href="https://www.gimjournal.org/article/S1098-3600(21)02602-2/fulltext"> Genetics in Medicine</a> found that while some consumers experienced adverse short-term psychological reactions to receiving APOE results, nearly all experienced long-term benefits from receiving this information and making subsequent lifestyle changes.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-can-i-reduce-my-risk-of-developing-alzheimer-s">How can I reduce my risk of developing Alzheimer’s?</h6>



While there is currently <a href="https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf">no cure</a> for Alzheimer’s, there are six FDA-approved drugs on the market for those who have the condition. Most of these drugs are focused on easing symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, research suggests it’s possible to reduce your overall risk of developing the disease by making lifestyle changes. 



For example, several<a href="https://aaic.alz.org/releases_2019/AAIC19-Wed-release-NewResearch.asp"> 2019 studies</a> found that healthy lifestyle habits like exercise, healthy diet, abstaining from smoking, and cognitive stimulation were associated with a lower risk of developing the disease.



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*The 23andMe PGS 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. &nbsp;The Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease genetic health risk report is indicated for reporting of the E4 variant in the APOE gene and describes if a person has a variant associated with an increased risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The E4 variant included in this report is found and has been studied in many ethnicities. Detailed risk estimates have been studied the most in people of European descent.&nbsp;

The APOE Gene and Alzheimer’s Risk

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

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

When Jane Beery learned that she carried a BRCA1 mutation, she was shocked but not surprised.



Jane, who is now 66, had been going in for mammograms and screenings since her early 30s. Her mother died from breast cancer and she has Ashkenazi Jewish heritage.



“I’ve lived with this whole breast cancer cloud hanging over me for my whole life,” she explained.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="709" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84799b76-525c-46da-9262-588bc225f940-e1666905935708-1024x709.jpg" alt="Jane Beery" class="wp-image-30649" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84799b76-525c-46da-9262-588bc225f940-e1666905935708-1024x709.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84799b76-525c-46da-9262-588bc225f940-e1666905935708-300x208.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84799b76-525c-46da-9262-588bc225f940-e1666905935708-768x532.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84799b76-525c-46da-9262-588bc225f940-e1666905935708-880x609.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84799b76-525c-46da-9262-588bc225f940-e1666905935708-1180x817.jpg 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/84799b76-525c-46da-9262-588bc225f940-e1666905935708.jpg 1512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



So in 2018, when the 23andMe BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk report* became available, she opted to receive the information.



“I remember hesitating before opening the report,” she said. “I thought about it for a while, and I thought about my life, and I went ahead.”



The report indicated that she had the BRCA1 variant – one of the three variants for which 23andMe tests.



After digesting her report, she told her nurse practitioner – who advised her to make an appointment for confirmatory testing with a genetic counselor – and her two daughters. “They were young adults, and I decided they needed the information.”



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-the-brca-genes">Meet the BRCA Genes</h6>



<a href="https://www.23andme.com/brca/">BRCA genes</a> themselves do not cause cancer. Instead, they normally act as tumor suppressors – helping to prevent cancer by repairing and protecting DNA. But BRCA variants cripple this DNA repair process, which can spur tumor growth and increase the risk of developing certain cancers, including breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">Sticking your head in the sand isn’t a good strategy, especially when there is so much that can be done</blockquote>



People with Ashkenazi Jewish heritage are particularly likely to carry these variants. Whereas one in 400 people in the general population carries a BRCA variant, about<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/young_women/bringyourbrave/hereditary_breast_cancer/jewish_women_brca.htm"> one in 40</a> people of Ashkenazi descent has one of the three variants included in 23andMe’s report.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">23andMe Customers</h6>



More than 6,000 23andMe customers with a variant – including Jane –&nbsp; have viewed their&nbsp; BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk report.&nbsp;



But recent research estimates that less than 20 percent of people with a BRCA variant know they have one.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Taking Action</h6>



For Jane, knowing her BRCA status has allowed her to take proactive steps to protect her and her daughter’s health. Since the discovery, she elected to have preventative surgery to remove her ovaries as well as a double mastectomy – significantly reducing her chance of developing breast cancer and nearly eliminating her risk for ovarian cancer.&nbsp;



And this knowledge became even more critical when one of her daughters found a lump in her breast at the age of 32 and was eventually diagnosed with breast cancer.



“[The hospital] had me scan and email my 23andMe reports to the geneticists while they waited for my daughter’s genetic test results to come back,” Jane recalled. “It was helpful in the time before they got her testing back, and they were able to confirm [her BRCA status].



Today, Jane is dedicated to sharing her BRCA story in the hopes that it can help others.



 “Power comes from knowledge,” she reflected. “Sticking your head in the sand isn’t a good strategy, especially when there is so much that can be done.”



<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 which 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 of the 185delAG and 5382insC variants in the BRCA1 gene and the 6174delT variant in the BRCA2 gene. The report describes if a woman is at increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, and if a man is at increased risk of developing breast cancer or may be at increased risk of developing prostate cancer. The three variants included in this report are most common in people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent and do not represent the majority of BRCA1/BRCA2 variants in the general population. 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. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional for recommended screenings or appropriate follow-up. Results should be confirmed in a clinical setting 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>.

Discovering a BRCA Gene in the Family

Most of us intuitively know what we need to do to stay healthy — eat better, exercise, get more sleep and reduce stress.



But knowing and doing are two different things.&nbsp; Many of us struggle to take the necessary actions to improve our health. Some of us just need a little nudge to get started. November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and we wanted to raise awareness about the risk but also shine a light on people who after learning of their own risk got educated and took action to lower it.&nbsp;



For Tracy, the nudge came from a 23andMe report, powered by 23andMe Research,&nbsp; indicating that she had a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes based on her genetics. It wasn’t that the result was a surprise — the condition runs in her family. It was simply seeing the report, spending the time to read it, and knowing that it confirmed what she already knew: She needed to take better care of herself.



”Seeing it there, in your face&nbsp; … I actually have to do something about that,” Tracy said.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-is-heavy">This is Heavy</h6>



Part of the promise of 23andMe is it offers people the information they and their healthcare provider can use to make better decisions about their health.



&#8220;The potential for 23andMe is really to massively change the way we are approaching our own health in terms of prevention,&#8221; said Anne Wojcicki, 23andMe’s CEO and co-founder. &#8220;I hope in 10 years we can have a society where people are proactively managing their health and getting information that helps them avoid disease.&#8221;&nbsp;



But what about right now?



According to the CDC, the number of Americans with diabetes has more than <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/quick-facts.html">doubled in the last two decades</a>. More than a third of adults in the United States are pre-diabetic. The vast majority of them, 84 percent, don&#8217;t even know they are at risk. About 34 million people in the US have diabetes.



The staggering number is a testament to how hard it is to make changes. Understanding the emotional and psychological hurdles people need to clear before taking the actions they already know they need to take to be healthy is essential.



There isn’t a perfect solution, but knowing your risk — whether from being overweight or having a higher genetic likelihood for the condition — is a first step to preventing developing type 2 diabetes. Finding the motivation to make a change is the next step.



We talked to a few 23andMe customers who used their 23andMe reports to help motivate them to make healthy changes. Here’s what they shared with us.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-change-what-you-can">Change What You Can</h6>



For Tracy, a 54-year-old mother of three adult children, this information came right as she was thinking about the next stage of her life.



Contemplating being both a mother and grandmother. She wanted to avoid some of the health issues her own mother and grandmother dealt with in their lives. The 23andMe report, coupled with some concerning blood work indicating she was pre-diabetic, was all she needed for motivation. She started eating better, exercising more, and focusing daily on her health.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/image-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30386" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/image-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/image-768x1151.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/image-200x300.jpg 200w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/image-587x880.jpg 587w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/image-788x1180.jpg 788w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/image-scaled.jpg 1709w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tracy</figcaption></figure>



Since making those changes she’s lost 15 pounds, and her A1C levels — a measure of blood sugar levels over time — have returned to normal. Her weight loss has not always been consistent, rising and falling over the months. Still, she’s focused on the positives. She’s kept the weight off and has plans to lose 15 more pounds. And the positive changes she’s made started with her understanding of the role genetics together with lifestyle plays in one’s chances of developing type 2 diabetes.&nbsp;



“I can’t change the DNA, but I can change what I do daily,” Tracy said.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-being-prepared">Being Prepared</h6>



Much like Tracy, Erick, a professional Jiu-Jitsu athlete, used his 23andMe report as motivation to keep focused on his health.



Erick, who served five tours in Afghanistan and is now in the Army reserves, is all about staying focused and prepared for what is to come. He said the health information within 23andMe’s report gives him the information he can use to be healthier and more prepared for the future.



“I want to know as much about my body as I possibly can so that I have the best advantage to train and compete,” Erick said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="728" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Erick-728x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-30588" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Erick-728x1024.png 728w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Erick-213x300.png 213w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Erick-626x880.png 626w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Erick.png 758w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 728px) 100vw, 728px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Erick</figcaption></figure>



He’s already in great shape, but he wants to do everything he can to stay healthy for his baby girl and&nbsp; two young sons. Seeing that he had a higher genetic likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, he decided to talk to his doctor about it. One of the first things that he focused on was the type of food he eats.



“I grew up in the Midwest and was a real meat and potatoes guy!” he said.



That changed after seeing the report and a discussion with his doctor. It motivated him to reduce his consumption of red meat, replacing it with more fish and chicken. He and his coaches tweaked his training, and those simple changes helped him lose some excess weight.



He feels better and is as prepared as ever.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taking-control">Taking Control</h6>



Unlike Erick, Kat (who uses the pronouns they/them) felt their weight issues were a given. Obesity runs in their family and they had sort of accepted it as their destiny.&nbsp;



But 23andMe’s report changed Kat’s point of view. Kat had an increased genetic likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. But reading it made Kat realize that actually, their DNA wasn’t their destiny.



“With 23andMe, it made me feel like maybe I should care about my health and live my life like I’m going to make it after all,” Kat said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Kat-Photo-scaled-e1666044631750-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-30408" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Kat-Photo-scaled-e1666044631750-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Kat-Photo-scaled-e1666044631750-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Kat-Photo-scaled-e1666044631750-660x880.jpeg 660w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Kat-Photo-scaled-e1666044631750-885x1180.jpeg 885w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kat</figcaption></figure>



Kat realized that yes their genetics plays a role but so does diet and lifestyle. Kat decided to make some healthy changes, eating better, exercising more, and changing their perspective on the future. After making those changes, Kat has already lost 50 pounds. And the transformation has inspired others in Kat’s family. Kat’s mom also adopted a healthier lifestyle, losing 15 pounds thus far.&nbsp;



“What’s cool about 23andMe is (it) gives me the inspiration that a lot of diet programs don’t provide,” said Kat.&nbsp;



And that success motivated Kat’s mom to also take action.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Self-Coaching</h6>



When she was on campus, Lucy helped fellow students as a volunteer with the University of Wyoming’s wellness program. As a wellness ambassador, her job was to help others through education, conducting health screenings, health coaching, or simply lending an ear to listen. She never expected that she would use some of those skills for her own wellness.



An adoptee, Lucy used 23andMe to learn a little bit more about her ancestry, but it was her health reports that ended up drawing most of her attention. Learning that she had a substantially increased genetic likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes prompted Lucy to act.



“I was shocked,” she said.



It prompted her to go back and look at her most recent blood work, and she saw that she was on the cusp of being pre-diabetic.



Her 23andMe report and blood test drove her to act.



“It has really given me the motivation to start eating healthier and exercise more,” Lucy said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="819" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lucylucia-1024x819.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30409" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lucylucia-1024x819.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lucylucia-300x240.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lucylucia-768x614.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lucylucia-880x704.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lucylucia-1180x944.jpg 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lucylucia.jpg 1750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lucy</figcaption></figure>



With a weakness for sweets, Lucy knew she had to work at maintaining a healthy lifestyle but she got some help from those she loved. At home, Lucy’s mom made sure to stock the house with food options to support Lucy’s goals, and at school, her boyfriend, now her husband, helped her by changing his diet and working out with her at the gym. She’s already noticed a change, even in how her body responds when she strays and eats something sugary. It’s also helped her in her volunteer role, allowing her to share her own experience of making healthy choices every day. Now that she’s married and recently graduated from school, she’s carrying those lessons with her. She knows that those decisions don’t only help her but her family and the people she cares about and who care about her.



“I do not want my health problems to negatively affect the people I love the most,” she said. “I am so thankful to have learned about this earlier rather than later.”



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Staying Around Longer</h6>



David was always curious about what he could learn about using 23andMe, but he didn’t try it until some friends gave it to him as a gift for his birthday. All the curiosity had been focused on what he might learn about his ancestry. He didn’t expect that his health reports would have much more impact on his life.



Among the things he learned about his health was that he had an increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. The father of a 13-year-old, and on the cusp of getting married again, the result got his attention.



“It prompted me to make myself healthier,” he said&nbsp;



After seeing his report he talked to his doctor.



“I went to my doctors and asked what the best course of action would be,” David said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="675" height="675" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1xmtzc.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30347" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1xmtzc.jpg 675w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1xmtzc-150x150.jpg 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1xmtzc-300x300.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1xmtzc-271x271.jpg 271w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1xmtzc-372x372.jpg 372w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1xmtzc-574x574.jpg 574w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 675px) 100vw, 675px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">David</figcaption></figure>



It wasn’t too complicated, his doctor told him.



“Primarily, it’s diet and exercise,” David said.



Although the advice seemed generic, for some reason it felt more personal. David could see that he not only had a higher genetic likelihood but that his lifestyle choices put him at a higher chance for type 2 diabetes.



“I know that sounds like a catchall but honestly it really is (what you need to do),” he said.&nbsp;



David started with the simple things. He cut out fast foods, processed meats, and cheese from his diet. The latter was a little hard for him.



“I love cheese,” he said.&nbsp;



But he kept at it, motivated to act not just because of his genetic likelihood and his overall health but because he saw how diabetes had ravaged his mom and his grandmother. He knows what it means to live with the condition, and that’s what kept him going.&nbsp;



“It’s a journey,” he says.&nbsp;



A surgery set him back but he’s recently started to get into the gym again, and he’s running training for a 5K, as well as some obstacle races that some of his friends are doing.



“I’m ready to catch up with them,” David said.



But it’s not just about doing stuff with his friends. He thinks about his son.



“ I want to be the role model he needs,” David said. “I don’t want to lead by a bad example of what not to be. I need to be around for a long time.”



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*Important Note: The 23andMe Type 2 Diabetes report is based on 23andMe research and incorporates more than 1,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.&nbsp; The report does not account for lifestyle or family history and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. Click <a href="http://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/type-2-diabetes">here</a> for additional important information.

Health + Traits — Page 10