Editor&#8217;s note: (June 4, 2024) This blog post has been updated from the original.



 The history and culture of Ashkenazi Jewish people, the waves of persecution, pogroms, and communal isolation over centuries help explain the genetic uniqueness of Ashkenazi ancestry and its implications on health.



While people of Ashkenazi ancestry have deep roots in Eastern and Central Europe, their ancestral lines trace back further to areas in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3032072/?tool=pmcentrez" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Middle East</a>.&nbsp;



For people of <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/detail-for-ashkenazi-ancestry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ashkenazi ancestry</a>, it is in Europe that a drastic reduction in the population&#8217;s size and communal isolation became so profound that they created what geneticists call a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.berkeley.edu/2022/06/23/bottlenecks-that-reduced-genetic-diversity-were-common-throughout-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8220;population bottleneck.&#8221;</a>&nbsp;



Factors like disease outbreaks, geographic isolation, mass migration, and persecution can all contribute to population bottlenecks. This was particularly true for Ashkenazi Jewish communities, who faced centuries of discrimination and displacement. Such events drastically reduce a population&#8217;s size, limiting its genetic diversity. Over generations, this can lead to distinct genetic characteristics and a higher prevalence of certain inherited conditions within the Ashkenazi Jewish population.



That happened among Ashkenazi Jewish communities in Central and Eastern Europe. Our DNA Health + Ancestry Service can help you learn more about your ancestry and genetic health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ashkenazi-ancestry-and-risk-for-certain-genetic-conditions">Ashkenazi Ancestry and Risk for Certain Genetic Conditions</h2>



Understanding this history of isolation helps explain why people with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/detail-for-ashkenazi-ancestry" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ashkenazi ancestry</a>&nbsp;are more likely to carry genetic variants that cause certain single-gene recessive Mendelian conditions such as<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/gaucher-disease-type-1/" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;Gaucher disease</a>,<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/canavan-disease/" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;Canavan disease</a>, and<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/tay-sachs-disease" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;Tay-Sachs disease</a>.&nbsp;



In addition, people with Ashkenazi ancestry are more likely to carry the so-called &#8220;founder variants&#8221; in the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/brca/" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;BRCA1 and BRCA2, increasing</a>&nbsp;the risk of breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer.&nbsp;



It also helps explain why people of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry are <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1002559" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than&nbsp;twice as likely</a> to develop <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetics-crohns-ashkenazi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crohn&#8217;s disease</a>&nbsp;compared to those of other European ancestry.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tracing the History of Ashkenazi Jewish Ancestry</h2>



People of Ashkenazi ancestry first migrated to Southern Europe from Western Asia around 2,000 years ago.&nbsp;



Then — in the Middle Ages — many Jewish people living in southern Europe moved north. They primarily settled in northeastern France and western Germany near the Rhine River. It was there that their distinct religious, cultural, and Ashkenazi Jewish identity formed.&nbsp;



The word &#8220;Ashkenazi&#8221; is thought to come from the name &#8220;Ashkenaz,&#8221; a descendant of Noah named in the Hebrew Bible.



Although Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry is under the umbrella of &#8220;European ancestry,&#8221; it&#8217;s clear from numerous studies that people of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/detail-for-ashkenazi-ancestry" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ashkenazi ancestry</a>&nbsp;are distinct from other European populations.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ashkenazi Ancestry and Other Jewish Ancestry</h2>



While most people with Ashkenazi ancestry trace their DNA to Eastern and Central Europe, they are often more genetically like other Jewish populations — such as Sephardic Jews or Jewish groups with roots in Iran, Iraq, or Syria — than other Europeans.&nbsp;



People with European ancestry are genetically distinct from those of Asian or African descent. What is less obvious is that genetic variation also exists within European groups.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="648" height="652" data-id="13179" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/between-3-variation.png" alt="" class="wp-image-13179" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/between-3-variation.png 648w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/between-3-variation-150x150.png 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/between-3-variation-298x300.png 298w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="827" height="770" data-id="13182" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/within-variation.png" alt="" class="wp-image-13182" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/within-variation.png 827w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/within-variation-300x279.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/within-variation-768x715.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 827px) 100vw, 827px" /></figure>
</figure>



In these plots from a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.plosgenetics.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pgen.1002559" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study by Eimear Kenny</a>, you can see the genetic variation between major ancestral groups (left) and within a population (right). Jewish groups fall into the European cluster on the left. 



But people with Ashkenazi ancestry (blue) form a unique cluster. That cluster is distinct mainly from Caucasian (CEU; green) and other Jewish populations (various colors) on the right. Individuals who are part Ashkenazi fall between the Caucasian and Ashkenazi clusters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-persecution-isolation-and-the-ashkenazi-genetic-bottleneck">Persecution, Isolation, and the Ashkenazi Genetic Bottleneck</h2>



What contributed to those differences was the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/detail-for-ashkenazi-ancestry">unique history of the Ashkenazi people</a>. During their long history in Europe, Ashkenazi Jews faced waves of persecution and cultural isolation that, in turn, impacted their genetics.&nbsp;



Starting in the 11th Century during the Christian Crusades, Jews living in primarily northwestern Europe were not just persecuted but, in some communities, massacred. Other communities in England and France, for instance, were expelled.&nbsp;



Fleeing from that violence and persecution, many Ashkenazi Jewish people migrated east to places like present-day Poland and Lithuania. The violence and the plague, which hit Europe in the 14th and 15th Centuries, decimated the Ashkenazi Jewish population.&nbsp;



Some estimate that it&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/detail-for-ashkenazi-ancestry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plummeted by close to 90 percent</a>. This created a population bottleneck so that most of the 10 million Ashkenazi Jewish people living today are related to a few hundred &#8220;founding individuals.&#8221;



To illustrate the impact of that isolation, two people of Ashkenazi descent in 14th-century Germany were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0092867422013782?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more genetically distinct than the average two Ashkenazi Jewish people living today</a>. 



While the persecution and isolation that created the population bottleneck happened in the Middle Ages, the persecution of Jewish people did not end then.&nbsp;



In the 20th Century, more than six million European Jewish people were systematically murdered in the Holocaust. Many who survived the Holocaust immigrated to the United States and Israel after the war.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explore-your-ancestry-with-23andme">Explore Your Ancestry with 23andMe</h2>



Learn if your <a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/genetic-health/">genetics</a> might Increase your risk for any health conditions with 23andMe.



23andMe customers can go to their&nbsp;<a href="https://you.23andme.com/ancestry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Overview</a> and learn specific insights into whether they have&nbsp;<a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/ancestry_composition_hd/ashkenazi/?ap2_smoother_compute_name=ap2_smoother_47_populations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ashkenazi ancestry</a>.&nbsp;



Are you still waiting to be a customer? Find out more about 23andMe&#8217;s ancestry offerings&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



Knowing your ancestry can teach you about your family&#8217;s heritage and is vital for your health.&nbsp;



With our health + Ancestry service, you can learn more about your ancestry and genetic health. Find out more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.

23andMe Blog

23andMe Blog Team

Understanding Ashkenazi Jewish Ancestry & Genetics for Your Health

Genetics is a big reason why many millions of people respond differently to <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/science-and-research-drugs/table-pharmacogenomic-biomarkers-drug-labeling">commonly prescribed medications</a>, and yet few of us are screened to detect these genetic differences.



This week 23andMe added another in a suite of reports that examine how a person&#8217;s genetics may impact their response to certain medications, and their chance of experiencing possible side effects. These are the first and only <a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics/direct-consumer-tests#list">direct-to-consumer pharmacogenetic reports authorized by the FDA</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="416" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/enzyme.1b88dacdc77b-1024x416.png" alt="" class="wp-image-31976" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/enzyme.1b88dacdc77b-1024x416.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/enzyme.1b88dacdc77b-300x122.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/enzyme.1b88dacdc77b-768x312.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/enzyme.1b88dacdc77b-880x357.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/enzyme.1b88dacdc77b-1180x479.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/enzyme.1b88dacdc77b.png 1320w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simvastatin-medication-insight-report-nbsp">Simvastatin Medication Insight report&nbsp;</h6>



The updated <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/slco1b1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pharmacogenetics report for SLCO1B1 Drug Transport</a> with a new Medication Insight Report* is available for <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ members</a>. It looks at how individuals respond to simvastatin, sold under the brand names Flolipid® and Zocor.® It provides an easy-to-read message telling them whether they have an increased chance of experiencing side effects. Simvastatin is a statin drug used to lower cholesterol in the blood and reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, or other heart problems.&nbsp;



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30580575/">One in four Americans over 40 uses a statin</a> to lower their cholesterol, as reported by American Heart Association scientists. About 8 million people in the US were prescribed the statin simvastatin in 2020. This amounts to about 36 million prescriptions, making it among the <a href="https://clincalc.com/DrugStats/">most prescribed medications</a> in the United States, according to <a href="https://clincalc.com/DrugStats/About.aspx">ClinCalc DrugStats database</a>. ClinCalc provides prescription drug utilization data estimates for patients in the United States that is drawn from government sources including the NIH and FDA.



Genetic differences in the SLCO1B1 gene affect a protein involved in moving some medications, including statins, from the blood to the liver. The liver is where they are processed and removed from the body.



When the gene function is reduced, statin levels in the blood rise. This increases the likelihood of <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/snpwatch-gene-variant-may-increase-risk-for-rare-side-effect-of-cholesterol-lowering-drugs">side effects like muscle pain</a>, weakness, or both, a condition known as myopathy.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="579" height="325" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SLCO1B1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-31979" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SLCO1B1.png 579w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SLCO1B1-300x168.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 579px) 100vw, 579px" /></figure>



Muscle pain or weakness is one of the most common side effects of statins, including simvastatin.&nbsp; About <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30580575/">one in ten people on statins</a> stop using them, according to a study from the American Heart Association.&nbsp; About 60 percent report of those who stopped said they <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22658145/">stopped because of muscle pain</a>, according to research by scientists at the St. Louis University School of Medicine. Having one or two copies of the SLCO1B1 variant included in 23andMe&#8217;s Pharmacogenetics report increases the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32702748/">risk of developing simvastatin-associated myopathy from two to six times</a>. Importantly, studies have shown that patients who received SLCO1B1 genotype-guided therapy were <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25563221/">more likely to take their medication, had improved perceptions of statin therapy</a>, and had <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30354330/">better health outcomes</a>.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Drug Response</h6>



People respond differently to the same medicine due to many factors such as age, weight, liver and kidney function, diet, or even other drugs they might be taking. But we have also known for some time that for many medications, genetic differences also play a role in their effectiveness.



In some cases, those differences may also lead to adverse drug reactions.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="388" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/other_factors.a2fa6546eb5d-1024x388.png" alt="" class="wp-image-31980" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/other_factors.a2fa6546eb5d-1024x388.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/other_factors.a2fa6546eb5d-300x114.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/other_factors.a2fa6546eb5d-768x291.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/other_factors.a2fa6546eb5d-880x333.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/other_factors.a2fa6546eb5d-1180x447.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/other_factors.a2fa6546eb5d.png 1320w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



About half of the people in the United States use at least<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/drug-use-therapeutic.htm"> one prescription drug</a> in any given month, according to data from the CDC. Millions of these individuals have one common genetic variant that impacts<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9177500/"> how they process those medications</a>. This could impact how they respond to a blood thinner, an antidepressant, or pain medication. The list of medications that the Food and Drug Administration labels with a known genetic variant that impacts their efficacy or chance for side effects now includes <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/science-and-research-drugs/table-pharmacogenomic-biomarkers-drug-labeling">hundreds of drugs</a>. That list continues to grow. Knowing beforehand whether a prescription drug is likely to work, or trigger an adverse reaction, offers a tremendous public health benefit.



A recent European study involving almost 7,000 patients in seven European countries over three years noted the potential of using this information in care. It found that using genetic screening to identify people with variants that affected how they processed a medication lowered the risk of patients having an adverse drug reaction by<a href="https://upgx.eu/matching-medication-to-dna-leads-to-30-fewer-side-effects/"> 30 percent</a>. The study was led by U-PGx, a consortium of researchers from more than <a href="https://upgx.eu/u-pgx-consortium/">a dozen universities and research institutions in Europe and the UK</a>.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">23andMe&#8217;s Pharmacogenetics Reports*</h6>



23andMe+ Membership includes information about how your <a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA may affect the processing of almost two dozen medications</a>. Among them are drugs used in treatments that range from depression and high cholesterol, to certain medications used in chemotherapy. The reports examine how variants in three genes — <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/cyp2c19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CYP2C19</a>, <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/dpyd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DPYD</a>, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/slco1b1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SLCO1B1</a> — affect the body’s ability to metabolize or transport those medications.



Under the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/fda-clearance">FDA authorization,</a> there is no additional confirmatory testing requirement for the SLCO1B1 Drug Transport report. A healthcare provider can use the results from the report to guide care. Remember that other factors besides your genetics can also affect how your body processes medications. In addition, customers should not change their medications without first consulting their healthcare provider.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Find Out More</h6>



23andMe+ members can view their <a href="https://you.23andme.com/health/pgt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pharmacogenetics reports here</a>.



23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers on the current genotyping chip can receive this report and 35+ other reports by joining 23andMe+ from within their accounts <a href="https://you.23andme.com/chip-upgrade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">link here to upgrade.</a> 



&nbsp;Not a 23andMe+ customer yet?<a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/"> Learn more about what 23andMe offers here</a>.



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



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">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. Our CYP2C19 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with metabolism of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of citalopram and clopidogrel therapy.



Our SLCO1B1 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with the processing of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of simvastatin therapy. Our DPYD Pharmacogenetics report does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Results for&nbsp; DPYD and certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action.&nbsp; Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding Pharmacogenetic reports, visit <a href="http://www.23andme.com/test-info">www.23andme.com/test-info</a>.

New Report Release image for Simvastatin Medication Insight

New 23andMe+ Report on Simvastatin

In some cultures, they&#8217;re called&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/rte/status/1367052455461142531?lang=en" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8220;little kisses of the sun,&#8221;</a>&nbsp;indeed, freckles tend to become more pronounced with more sun exposure.



It is an oddity of nature that the sun can lighten a person&#8217;s hair but darken their skin. Freckles are not simply an uneven tan, though. Sun exposure results in freckling in some people when the skin pigmentation in skin cells is produced unevenly across the body. You get freckles in areas where you have more pigmentation production.



Why some people are more prone than others toward&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/traits/freckles/" rel="noreferrer noopener">freckling has a lot to do with their genetics.</a>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pigmentation">Pigmentation</h6>



Freckles are often associated with fair-skinned people, redheads, or people of Northern European descent. While it is true that freckling is more common in fair-skinned people, they occur in people of all ethnic backgrounds. The dynamic is the same.&nbsp;



We all have specialized skin cells called melanocytes that produce melanin. This pigmentation gives skin — along with <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/untangling-the-genetics-of-hair-color" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hair</a> and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/snpwatch-genetic-variation-is-in-the-eye-of-the-beholder" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eyes</a> —color.&nbsp;



Melanin also helps protect the skin from sun damage by absorbing and reflecting ultraviolet light. When the sun is out, pigmentation production ramps up. When it&#8217;s spread across our skin evenly, we get a tan. But you get freckles in areas where your skin produces more melanin.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Genetics of Freckles</h6>



To better understand the factors involved in freckling 23andMe, scientists looked at data from more than 150,000 customers of European ancestry who consented to participate in research. Our team found 34 variants in several different genes associated with freckling. Using that data and other factors like age and sex, we created a statistical model to estimate the likelihood of having freckles.



But these genetic variants also shed light on the genes responsible for melanin production. One of the variants strongly associated with freckling is in the Melanocortin 1 Receptor gene,&nbsp;MC1R, which is also associated with red hair.&nbsp;



The&nbsp;MC1R&nbsp;gene toggles the cells that produce a brown-black pigment or a reddish-yellow pigment. The color of the pigment, and how much is produced, plays a role not just in skin pigmentation but also in the color of a person&#8217;s hair. So, for some people, a variant in the gene changes the signal to make the black-brown pigment that is so protective against the sun&#8217;s harmful UV rays and instead produces more reddish-yellow pigment, which, in <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/no-im-not-irish" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">your hair, gives it a red color.</a>



While genetics plays an essential role in freckling, so does sun exposure. And the two factors also work in tandem.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Sun Exposure</h6>



Freckles are usually harmless, but that doesn&#8217;t mean you should ignore them. Freckles are often more pronounced after sun exposure, for instance, and can be damaging to your skin.&nbsp;



Dermatologists recommend sunscreen and limiting sun exposure, especially during the middle of the day.



Beyond those protections that help against premature aging and skin cancer, you should also pay attention to your skin. Consult a dermatologist if you notice dramatic changes in a freckle&#8217;s color, shape, or size.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Find Out More</h6>



Are you curious about your likelihood of freckling or want to learn what your genetics says about other <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-traits-of-summer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common traits?</a> You can&nbsp;<a href="https://you.23andme.com/health/trait/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">see your traits report here.</a>



Not yet a customer? Check out what&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe can tell you about your traits here</a>.

Sun Kissed with Freckles

This week, we released a new Panic Attacks report powered by 23andMe research and available for 23andMe+ members.&nbsp;



The new report adds to our collection of reports focusing on mental health conditions, including<a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/depression/"> depression</a>,<a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/anxiety-and-anxiety-disorders/"> and anxiety</a>. As with many mood and anxiety disorders, panic attacks and panic disorder are sometimes <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3184591/#:~:text=Misdiagnosis%20rates%20reached%2065.9%25%20for,97.8%25%20for%20social%20anxiety%20disorder">misdiagnosed or simply difficult to diagnose</a>. Understanding one’s genetic risk for these conditions, and sharing that information with your healthcare provider may help in reaching the right diagnosis and treatment.&nbsp;



The size and scale of 23andMe, also offers a unique opportunity to estimate risks using polygenic risk models with unmatched power. This gives consumers insights into their genetic risk for mental health conditions, panic attacks, depression, or anxiety, as well as other health conditions like high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease. Currently 23andMe offers more than 30 reports based on polygenic scores. You can learn more about our<a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodologyAppendix_2023.pdf"> methods for creating these polygenic scores here</a>.



 These reports offer customers added benefits for their health and aids in removing the stigma around<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm"> mental health.</a> A person’s mental and physical health is often interconnected to one’s overall well-being.



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



Panic attacks happen when fear and anxiety overwhelm a person and lead to physical symptoms such as racing heart, stomach aches, and shortness of breath. These attacks are often so intense with chest pain and shortness of breath that they may be mistaken for a heart attack. This can also compound fears about their health.



<div style="float: right; text-align: justified; width: 300px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 10px;">HELP IS THERE IF YOU NEED IT


If you are dealing with panic attacks, talk to a professional and get help.

There are also some additional resources for you to find help or inform yourself about this common condition. Remember, you are not alone; there are people who can help you provide you with support. 

National Alliance on Mental Illness — The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is an organization that provides education, support, and advocacy. Their helpline is available Monday through Friday, 10 am to 8 pm ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264). They also have a wealth of resources on their website, including information on panic attacks.

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) — Provides vast information and resources related to anxiety disorders, including panic disorder. (https://adaa.org/) This includes tips on managing stress and anxiety.

Therapy — Talking to a therapist can help if you’re struggling. An experienced therapist can help you navigate and find the best approaches to treating panic attacks. 

Remember, it’s okay to reach out for help. You don’t have to go through this alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you get through this.
</div>



Many people have panic attacks. Up to <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/article-abstract/209477">1 in 3 people will experience panic attacks in their lifetime</a>, according to researchers at Harvard. But some people who suffer frequent and unexpected attacks over time may develop panic disorder. This is a type of<a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders"> anxiety disorder</a> where panic attacks happen frequently, even when there isn’t a clear danger or a clear trigger. As a result, people with panic disorder often feel as if they have little control, compounding their anxiety.&nbsp;



Beyond a racing heart and shortness of breath, several other physical and mental symptoms of panic attacks exist. Those include:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>An overwhelming sense of anxiety or fear</li>



<li>A feeling of being out of control</li>



<li>Fear of death or impending doom</li>



<li>Sweating</li>



<li>Chills</li>



<li>Trembling</li>



<li>Weakness or dizziness</li>



<li>Chest pain</li>



<li>Nausea or stomach ache</li>
</ul>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">What is the cause?</h6>



Our bodies are built for survival. Along with our immune response, we each have a fight-or-flight response to danger that has helped humans thrive over millennia. But a panic attack is caused when that fight-or-flight response kicks in, even when there is no clear, immediate danger.



There are many reasons why this happens in some people and not in others. Genetics can play a role, but so do other factors. Panic attacks often occur during stressful periods, so family or relationship issues or financial stress might trigger an attack. In addition, panic attacks may occur as a symptom of other anxiety disorders such as post traumatic stress disorder or other mental health issues.



Panic attacks are more common in younger adults. Still, they can happen to anyone, according to the NIH. Left untreated, panic attacks can lead to problems at work or school, or interpersonal relationships, impacting a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, they are treatable.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">The Genetic Influences on Panic Attacks</h6>



Like other mental health conditions, genetics is one of many factors contributing to whether someone is more prone to panic attacks. Understanding those genetic factors could help those trying to better understand their conditions or risk and the steps they may take to address them.



 Researchers have identified several genes associated with panic attacks. Some of these genes play a role in how the body responds to stress and how the brain regulates mood and the body’s fight-or-flight response. In addition, researchers have also found that some of the same genes associated with <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-019-0590-2">depression</a> are also associated with panic disorder. Some of these genes are genes involved in regulating anxiety.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">About 23andMe’s Panic Attacks Report</h6>



Panic attacks are a common form of anxiety that affects millions of people worldwide.



23andMe’s new Panic Attacks report is powered by data from people who have consented to participate in 23andMe research. The report uses machine learning techniques to estimate an individual’s likelihood of being diagnosed with panic attacks.



The estimate is made using a statistical model that includes thousands of genetic markers and information on an individual’s ethnicity and sex assigned at birth. You can learn more about the science and methodology behind our new report in this <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodology_May2020.pdf">white paper</a>.



Note that 23andMe’s genetic report on panic attacks can provide users with helpful information on their estimated genetic likelihood of being diagnosed with the condition. Still, it is not a substitute for clinical diagnosis and treatment.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Find Out More</h6>



23andMe+ members can <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/prs.panic_attacks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learn more here about the Panic Attack Report</a>.



Current 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers on the current genotyping chip can receive this report and 35+ other reports by joining 23andMe+ from within their accounts.



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



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

An image of a 23andMe+ new report release for Panic Attacks.

23andMe Releases a Panic Attacks Report

It&#8217;s summertime, and with warmer temperatures and longer days come mosquitos.



Those pesky insects are more attracted to some of us than others, and we may have genetics to thank for that, according to researchers.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-so-why-is-that">So why is that?&nbsp;</h6>



Let&#8217;s dive into the science of <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/mosquito-bites" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito attractio</a>n and see how 23andMe can help determine if you&#8217;re more likely to be on the mosquito menu.



First off, it&#8217;s not just by chance that mosquitos bite some people more than others. Genetics may explain at least some of that difference, and it helps explain why some react more severely to bites than others.&nbsp;



Mosquitos home in on specific molecules in body odor and breath; the more of these molecules we have, the more enticing we are to mosquitos. In addition, for some people, the annoyance goes beyond being more attractive to the bugs; our genetics can also impact&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/bug-bite-genetics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how we react to mosquito bites with larger and itchier welts</a>.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Mosquitobite.jpg-1002x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-26391" width="501" height="512" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Mosquitobite.jpg-1002x1024.png 1002w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Mosquitobite.jpg-294x300.png 294w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Mosquitobite.jpg-768x785.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Mosquitobite.jpg-861x880.png 861w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Mosquitobite.jpg-1155x1180.png 1155w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 501px) 100vw, 501px" /></figure>



You probably already know if you&#8217;re a mosquito magnet, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/traits/mosquito-bite-frequency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe&#8217;s Mosquito Bite Frequency</a>&nbsp;report can tell you if your genetics may explain why you&#8217;re more attractive to the bugs than others.&nbsp;



The report uses a statistical model based on almost 300 genetic variants associated with mosquito bite frequency and sensitivity. Using this statistical model that includes genetic and non-genetic factors 23andMe can report whether you are more or less likely to be attracted to mosquitos and whether you&#8217;re more sensitive to their bites than others.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Anatomy of a mosquito bite</h6>



When a mosquito bites, it pokes through the skin of its victim and releases a substance to prevent clotting, making it easier to feed on the blood.&nbsp;



That substance, in turn, triggers an immune response in people as their bodies release histamine to fight the foreign substance. The size of the welt, or &#8220;wheel,&#8221; left behind and the severity of the itch varies in part based on a person&#8217;s genetics.



As noted above, genetics plays a role in those different reactions, something 23andMe researchers have compiled data on.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">So why should I care?</h6>



Whether you care about getting bit or not, understanding the genetics of mosquito attraction may be more important than you imagine.&nbsp;



That&#8217;s because, for millions of people, mosquitos are more than just a nuisance; they are one of the deadliest creatures on earth. Hundreds of thousands of deaths a year are due to mosquitos transmitting diseases such as Dengue fever, West Nile Virus, Zika, and malaria.



According to the World Health Organization, malaria alone accounted for more than 619,000 deaths in 2021. Understanding how people respond to bites and why some of us are more susceptible to getting bit could help stop the spread of these serious insect-borne diseases.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Itching to Learn More?</h6>



If you&#8217;re a 23andMe customer and want to understand better your genetic propensity toward more or itchier mosquito bites, sign in and check out your <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/trait.mosquito_bite_frequency/">Mosquito Bite Frequency report.</a>



Not yet a customer? Find out more about <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">all that 23andMe has to offer</a>.&nbsp;

Are you a mosquito magnet?

May is <a href="https://www.lupus.org/lupus-awareness-month">Lupus Awareness Month</a>, and this month we’ve released a new report on lupus that is powered by 23andMe research and available for <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+</a> members.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Lupus-Logo.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22692" width="286" height="283" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Lupus-Logo.jpg 572w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Lupus-Logo-300x296.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 286px) 100vw, 286px" /></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-the-lupus-report">About the Lupus Report</h6>



23andMe’s new Lupus Report is powered by data from people who have consented to participate in 23andMe research. The report uses machine learning techniques to estimate an individual’s likelihood of being diagnosed with lupus.



The estimate is made using a statistical model that includes more than 1,900 genetic markers and information on an individual’s ethnicity and sex assigned at birth. You can learn more about the science and methodology behind our new report in this <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodology_May2020.pdf">white paper</a>.



Note that 23andMe’s genetic report on lupus can provide users with helpful information on their estimated genetic likelihood of being diagnosed with the condition. Still, it is not a substitute for clinical diagnosis and treatment.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">What is lupus?</h6>



<a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/lupus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lupus is a group of autoimmune conditions</a> that can occur in several forms, ranging from a minor rash to severe disease that can affect multiple organs in the body. While there are several types of lupus, the most common is called “systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).” 



Symptoms typically come and go throughout life in flares, but lupus can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Common symptoms include fatigue and muscle and joint pain. In addition, some of those with lupus may experience symptoms like periodic fevers, skin lesions, or a butterfly-shaped rash on the face.&nbsp;



One of the many confounding aspects of the disease is that it can impact almost any part of the body — the skin, joints, or various organs like the heart or the lungs. In addition, the parts of the body affected by lupus can be different between people and have different symptoms associated with them. This wide range of symptoms, and the fact that those symptoms can change over time, make diagnosing the disease challenging.&nbsp;



Like many autoimmune diseases, lupus impacts females at a higher rate than males — nine out of ten people diagnosed with lupus are female.† And among women, it is women of color who are disproportionately impacted. Black, Latina, and Asian women are two to three times more likely to develop lupus than white women, according to the<a href="https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-facts-and-statistics"> Lupus Foundation of America</a>.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">What causes lupus?</h6>



Although the cause of lupus is not yet fully understood, researchers believe that a mix of genetics and environmental factors trigger an overactive immune (or &#8220;autoimmune&#8221;) response. It’s that autoimmune response that can result in damage to the body.&nbsp;



For those with lupus, certain non-genetic factors can trigger flares of disease symptoms. These include viral infections, certain medications, sunlight, and stress.&nbsp;



Scientists have identified dozens of genes associated with an increased likelihood of developing the disease. These genes are involved in various immune system functions, including the production of antibodies, the regulation of inflammation, and the clearance of immune complexes.



A <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/23andme-research/new-insights-from-lupus-research/">four-year study</a> by 23andMe and Pfizer of about 6,000 people with lupus found that about 28 percent of those who participated also had a parent, child, or sibling with lupus. Additionally, we learned that among participants in our study, more than three-quarters reported joint and muscle pain.&nbsp;



However, we also learned that the impact of living with lupus went beyond just those symptoms; many of those participating in our study reported other health impacts. For instance, people with lupus participating in our study were four times more likely to have major depression compared to research participants without the condition. We also found that 44 percent of those in our study reported having high blood pressure.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Find Out More</h6>



23andMe+ members can click <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/prs.lupus/">here</a> if they wish to view their report.



Current 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers on the current genotyping chip can receive this report along with 35+ other reports by joining 23andMe+ from within their account. Learn more<a href="https://you.23andme.com/subscription/"> here</a>.



Not a 23andMe+ customer yet? Learn more about what 23andMe has to offer <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">here</a>.



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



†Within this blog post and the Lupus Report, we use the word “male” to refer to people whose birth sex is male and “female” to refer to people whose sex assigned at birth is female. However, we recognize that being categorized by sex assigned at birth may be an uncomfortable experience for some people, and we do not mean to delegitimize anyone’s gender identity. Learn more about why we made this decision in this <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010964373-How-23andMe-Uses-Your-Self-Reported-Sex-and-Gender%20Show%20less">help article.</a>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Read More Posts on Lupus Research</h6>



• <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-insights-from-lupus-research">New Insights from Lupus Research</a>



• <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/living-with-lupus">Living with Lupus</a>

An image of a 23andMe+ New Report Release for Lupus.

23andMe’s New Lupus Report

Not many Mother&#8217;s Day stories revolve around cancer, but for Kenzie Pinck and her mom Shannon, the battle against cancer is a through-line that bonds mother and daughter.



During Kenzie&#8217;s early teens, she spent weeks at her mom&#8217;s side caring for her after surgery and chemotherapy for treatments related to follicular lymphoma, a type of blood cancer. The experience changed them both, bringing them even closer than they already were.&nbsp;



&#8220;I spent my 16th birthday in a tiara in the waiting room while my mom had surgery,&#8221; Kenzie said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1011" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-1011x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-31684" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-1011x1024.jpeg 1011w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-296x300.jpeg 296w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-768x778.jpeg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-869x880.jpeg 869w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-1165x1180.jpeg 1165w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1.jpeg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1011px) 100vw, 1011px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photos of Shannon recovering from cancer treatment with Kenzie at her side. Image in upper left was taken on Kenzie&#8217;s 16th birthday.</figcaption></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-time-it-s-different">This Time It&#8217;s Different</h6>



Caring for her mom during that time, being her advocate, and connecting with other patients at the hospital helped nudge Kenzie toward medicine. Now a decade later, she&#8217;s a nurse in a neonatal intensive care unit. But the experience also taught both women how important it is to educate yourself about your health risks, to be proactive about your well-being, and to advocate for yourself to ensure you get the care you need.&nbsp;



Seven years ago, Shannon&#8217;s cancer went into remission. She and Kenzie felt the relief of dodging a bullet and a new appreciation for what is important in this life.



But now, mother and daughter are again facing the threat of cancer. This time, however, it&#8217;s different.&nbsp;



&#8220;This is something I can tackle,&#8221; Kenzie said.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">A Founder Variant</h6>



Last year Kenzie learned from her <a href="https://www.23andme.com/brca/">23andMe BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk Report</a>* that she had a BRCA1 variant that put her at a much higher risk for breast and ovarian cancer. 



Although there are more than 1,000 BRCA variants known to increase cancer risk, the report only looks at three variants. The three so-called <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7203114/">&#8216;founder variants&#8217;</a> are much more common among people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. 



Whereas one in 200-400 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&#8217;s report. Women with one of these variants have a 45-85 percent chance of developing breast cancer and up to a 46 percent chance of developing ovarian cancer by age 70. 



Men with a BRCA variant have an increased risk for male breast cancer and may have an increased risk for prostate cancer. The risk for certain other cancers may also be higher. (Here&#8217;s more about <a href="https://www.23andme.com/brca/">BRCA</a>.)



While Kenzie and Shannon knew they had Jewish ancestry, they weren&#8217;t aware of the role ancestry plays in the risk for some health conditions. Because they didn&#8217;t have a family history of breast cancer, or at least not that they knew, they never suspected that they might have one of the variants that carry a risk. None of their doctors suggested screening.&nbsp;



&#8220;I would have never been tested for it earlier,&#8221; said Kenzie, adding that if not for 23andMe, she and her mom might never have known that they carried this risk until it was too late.



Kenzie&#8217;s first call after seeing her report was to her mom. She wanted to know if Shannon knew about the variants in the BRCA gene that some people carry that put them at a higher risk for cancer.



&#8220;I asked her if she&#8217;d heard about it and if she or anyone in our family had tested before, and she said no.&#8221;



<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/2023/04/image4-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-31683" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image4-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image4-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image4-660x880.jpeg 660w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image4-885x1180.jpeg 885w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image4.jpeg 1160w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kenzie, left, with her mom Shannon after completing nursing school.</figcaption></figure>



IF THAT&#8217;S WHAT I HAVE TO DO



Their experience is surprisingly common. In a study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-63466-x">Scientific Reports</a>, 23andMe researchers found that many people with a BRCA variant are likely slipping through the cracks under current testing criteria. Another study by<a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2703131"> researchers at Geisinger</a> reported that more than 80 percent of people with a BRCA variant did not know they had one.



Shannon and Kenzie said 23andMe&#8217;s report and the tutorial part of that report spurred them into action. Because of her cancer history, Shannon made an appointment with her oncologist, where she shared the news about Kenzie&#8217;s report. She was referred to a genetic counselor, who immediately set Shannon up for genetic testing. In addition, the genetic counselor suggested Kenzie immediately talk to her doctor to get follow-up testing.&nbsp;



So, Kenzie shared her results with her primary care physician.



&#8220;That conversation didn&#8217;t go well,&#8221; Kenzie said.



In her and her mom&#8217;s journey, that was the only encounter with a healthcare professional that went poorly. Even with all the knowledge she has as a nurse and her experience with her mom&#8217;s cancer, like many people, Kenzie said navigating her own healthcare isn&#8217;t easy. She was looking for insights and advice from her doctor but got something else.



&#8220;I prefer that people don&#8217;t know these results,&#8221; he told her. &#8220;I don&#8217;t know why you tested yourself.&#8221;



Kenzie said her jaw dropped when he said: &#8220;What are you going to do, cut off your breasts at 27?&#8221;



&#8220;I said, &#8216;Maybe, if that&#8217;s what I have to do.'&#8221;



<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/2023/04/IMG_3604-683x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-31685" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-587x880.jpeg 587w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-787x1180.jpeg 787w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-scaled.jpeg 1707w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kenzie, left, with her mom Shannon.</figcaption></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Advocating for Yourself</h6>



That encounter with her doctor was shocking. His reaction felt like it was from a different era, but it was also a clarifying moment for Kenzie.&nbsp;



&#8220;I know how to stand up to a doctor and advocate for myself,&#8221; she said. &#8220;It scares me for all of the people who don&#8217;t know how to do that. Even with my knowledge and background, it was difficult for me, and I think about all the women who don&#8217;t know how to protect themselves.&#8221;



For Kenzie, this is information about a risk that she could do something about. So why wouldn&#8217;t she want to know?



Her doctor begrudgingly referred her to an oncologist. That interaction couldn&#8217;t have been more different. The oncologist asked her about her health history, lifestyle, and family&#8217;s health history.



&#8220;My doctor never asked me any of those questions,&#8221; Kenzie said.



All that information factors into her risk. For Kenzie, it reminded her of everything she controls and all the avenues she had to potentially lessen her odds of developing cancer. Almost immediately, she stopped drinking even though she never drank much alcohol. She focused on improving her diet, eating more vegetables and fruit and buying organic. She’s exercising more, and focusing more on reducing stress in her life. After talking to her doctor she also stopped using hormonal birth control because it’s been shown to <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1004188">increase the risk for breast cancer</a> in some women.



A CASCADE



While she was doing that, Kenzie also got confirmatory testing done. She indeed had the variant in BRCA1 that put her at higher risk. Meanwhile, her mom&#8217;s testing also came back positive. So both mother and daughter carry the variant in the BRCA1 gene that puts them at higher risk.



While they navigated more tests and decisions on what to do next, both women realized this information was vital to share with the rest of their family. They&#8217;d already talked to Kenzie&#8217;s older brother, Alex, about it. Men can also carry this risk variant, and the associated increased risk for some cancers. And they, in turn, can pass it on to their children. It turns out Alex also carries the variant. He is following up with his primary care doctor, but said he’s more worried about his mom and his sister.



In addition, Shannon talked to other close family members.&nbsp;



&#8220;Almost everyone tested positive,&#8221; Shannon said.



They&#8217;re each taking action to mitigate their risk.&nbsp;



In genetics, these kinds of family conversations are sometimes called the &#8220;cascade effect&#8221; of testing. It refers to the positive cascade of events triggered within families after someone learns of an inherited risk like this.&nbsp;



Several years ago, 23andMe researchers did <a href="https://peerj.com/articles/8/">a small study</a> on how people responded to learning of an unexpected genetic health risk for cancer via their 23andMe report. That study found that those who learned they carried a BRCA risk variant usually took appropriate actions. Like Shannon and Kenzie, they talked to their doctors and shared their results with family members. The study showed that the result created a &#8220;cascade effect&#8221; that benefited relatives who might not know of the family risk for these hereditary cancers.



&#8220;It was important to share that information,&#8221; said Shannon.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenzie-and-Alex-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-31687" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenzie-and-Alex-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenzie-and-Alex-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenzie-and-Alex-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenzie-and-Alex-880x660.jpeg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenzie-and-Alex-1180x885.jpeg 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenzie-and-Alex.jpeg 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kenzie, left, and her brother Alex.</figcaption></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Ticking time bombs</h6>



While both Shannon and Kenzie carry the same variant that puts them at risk, they are also at different stages of their lives, so their choices are different.



Kenzie isn&#8217;t yet 30, doesn&#8217;t have children, and is single. So for her, doing more frequent tests and scans makes more sense. In her head, the age 35 is a marker. It gives her more time to decide if she wants to have children, whether and when to get a mastectomy, or whether to remove her fallopian tubes and both of her ovaries.&nbsp;



The choices for her mom, who is in her 50s and has already had her children, are hard but more straightforward. She’d already gone through cancer once before; she didn’t want to again. In addition, because her cancer is in remission it could always come back. Her nightmare would have been to battle two different cancers at the same time.&nbsp;



Although she had a hysterectomy during her previous cancer surgeries, her ovaries were not removed at the time.&nbsp; Shannon decided to have her ovaries removed after seeing her oncologist. He told her that the ovaries &#8220;had to go. They&#8217;re like ticking time bombs.&#8221;



She recently had surgery to remove them, and is scheduled for her mastectomy after Mother’s Day.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">If That&#8217;s What I Have to Do</h6>



Shannon believes Kenzie saved her life. 



This whole experience has altered both Kenzie and Shannon’s perspectives. Shannon said she recently decided that she wouldn&#8217;t undergo breast reconstruction surgery after her mastectomy; that seemed so much less important to her now.&nbsp;



For her daughter, who always assumed she&#8217;d one day have children, the idea that she might not didn&#8217;t feel like such a radical one anymore. But she has time to decide.&nbsp;



For both women, their experience is a testament that knowledge is power.



&#8220;I think for me, how quickly we were able to move through this process to take control, that&#8217;s powerful,&#8221; said Shannon. &#8220;When I feel a little deflated or sad that Kenzie has this (risk), I worry about her; Kenzie reminds me of how blessed we are to have this knowledge. Look at what we&#8217;ve been able to do, not to get breast cancer. It&#8217;s an inspiration.&#8221;



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



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-note">Note</h6>



*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 and reporting carrier status. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. 



The test is&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. Our carrier status reports can be used to determine carrier status, but cannot determine if you have two copies of any genetic variant. These carrier reports are not intended to tell you anything about your risk for developing a disease in the future, the health of your fetus, or your newborn child&#8217;s risk of developing a particular disease later in life. For certain conditions, we provide a single report that includes information on both carrier status and genetic health risk.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Warnings &amp; Limitations </h6>



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.&nbsp; Results should be confirmed in a clinical setting before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding other genetic health risk reports and carrier status reports, visit&nbsp; <a href="http://www.23andme.com/test-info">www.23andme.com/test-info</a>.&nbsp;

Kenzie, left, with her mom Shannon after completing nursing school.

A Mother and Daughter’s Fight Against Cancer

This week, we released a new report powered by 23andMe research on depression that is available for 23andMe+ members.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-the-report">About the report</h2>



Depression is an all-too-common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States alone, it’s estimated that<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5875313/"> one in five</a> people will be diagnosed with some form of depression in their lifetime.



23andMe’s new Depression Report is powered by data from people who have consented to participate in 23andMe research. The report uses machine learning techniques to estimate an individual’s likelihood of being diagnosed with depression.



The estimate uses a statistical model that includes thousands of genetic markers and information on an individual’s ethnicity and birth sex. You can learn more about the science and methodology behind our new report in this <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_21-PRSMethodology_May2020.pdf">white paper</a>.



Note that 23andMe’s genetic health report on depression can provide users with helpful information on their estimated genetic likelihood of being diagnosed with the condition, but it is not a substitute for clinical diagnosis and treatment.



<div style="float: right; text-align: justified; width: 300px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 10px;">HELP IS THERE IF YOU NEED IT

If you or someone you know is in crisis, don’t ignore it, there is help. You can<a href="https://988lifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now/"> call or text 988</a> in the U.S. or<a href="https://findahelpline.com/"> find a helpline in your area.</a>

Here are some additional resources for you to find the help you or a friend or family member might need. Remember you are not alone, and there are people who can help you get the support you need. It’s OK to ask for assistance.

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 988 provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week across the United States. The Lifeline is comprised of a national network of over 200 local crisis centers, combining custom local care and resources with national standards and best practices. They can provide support or connect you with local resources. Either call or text 988, or you can call 1-888-628-9454.

• Crisis Text Line — The Crisis Text Line is another free resource that&#8217;s available 24/7. If you&#8217;re not comfortable talking on the phone, you can text with a trained crisis counselor. To get started, text HOME to 741741.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness — The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is an organization that provides education, support, and advocacy. Their helpline is available Monday through Friday, 10am to 8pm ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264). They also have a wealth of <a href="https://nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/Images/FactSheets/HelpLine-Resource-Directory.pdf">resources</a> on their <a href="https://nami.org/Home">website</a>, including information on depression and suicide.

• Therapy — Talking to a therapist can help if you’re struggling. An experienced therapist can help you navigate and find the best approaches to treating depression. Even if you don&#8217;t have insurance there are still options available, such as community mental health centers or sliding-scale therapy.

Remember, it&#8217;s okay to reach out for help. You don&#8217;t have to go through this alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you get through this.
</div>



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



Depression itself is not just about feeling sad or down. Those feelings are experienced by everyone. Depression is a more persistent and sometimes chronic condition that manifests itself in people differently.



There are several factors that contribute to whether someone develops depression. Genetics can play a role, but so do other factors. Some of those other factors include trauma or other life events, as well as environmental factors and/or chemical imbalances in the brain. Studies have shown that stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and substance use can also contribute significantly to depression. In addition, other factors like discrimination due to race, sexual orientation, gender expression, and identity also play a role in depression, as does social isolation. 



Symptoms of depression often include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and or worthlessness. These feelings might also be accompanied by a lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities, a lack of energy, or difficulty sleeping or concentrating. Some people with depression may also experience unexplained changes in appetite, aches, and pains, or issues with their digestive system. And in some cases, people with depression can have thoughts of harming themselves or suicide.



With the right resources and support, individuals dealing with depression can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Genetic factors</h2>



While it is but one of many factors that contribute to a person’s likelihood of developing depression, genetics can help explain how and why some people develop depression.



Depression is known to run in families, and it is also highly genetically correlated with<a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/anxiety-and-anxiety-disorders/"> anxiety</a>. Many people are diagnosed with both depression and anxiety. Depression is also<a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women"> more common among females</a> than among males.†



Research studies — including work done by, and with, 23andMe scientists — have identified thousands of different genetic variants associated with depression. Some of these are in<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-018-0326-7"> genes involved in neurotransmission</a> and response to stimuli in the central nervous system. A few other variants have been found in genes involved in a<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8404304/#R1"> neural growth regulator</a> active in the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is an area of the brain that’s been linked to depression in the past.&nbsp;



Together, these studies are helping scientists better understand how and why some people develop depression and others don’t. These insights may also help efforts to treat and prevent the disease.



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



23andMe+ members can click <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/prs.depression/">here</a> if they wish to view their report.



Current 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers on the current genotyping chip can receive this report and 35+ other reports by joining 23andMe+ from within their accounts. Learn more<a href="https://you.23andme.com/subscription/"> here</a>.



Not a 23andMe+ customer yet? Learn more about what 23andMe has to offer <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">here</a>.



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



Within this blog post and the Depression Report, we use the word “male” to refer to people whose birth sex is male and “female” to refer to people whose birth sex is female. However, we recognize that being categorized by birth sex may be an uncomfortable experience for some people, and we do not mean to delegitimize anyone’s gender identity. Learn more about why we made this decision in this <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/12279220169623">help article.</a>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Read More Posts on Depression Research</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/affect-study">A First Glimpse of a New Cohort to Study Depression and Bipolar Disorder</a></li>



<li><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetics-of-depression">Study Offers More Insights into the Genetics of Depression</a></li>



<li><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/associations-for-depression">Study Finds New Genetic Associations for Depression</a></li>



<li><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/depression-bipolar">Better Treatment and Care Needed for People with Depression</a></li>
</ul>



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

An image announcing the new 23andMe+ Depression Report

23andMe’s New Depression Report

This week, 23andMe released the new Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOXB13-Related) Genetic Health Risk report* for 23andMe+ members. This report is the first and only direct-to-consumer test <a href="https://investors.23andme.com/news-releases/news-release-details/23andme-receives-fda-clearance-direct-consumer-genetic-test">cleared by the FDA</a> that provides genetic health risk information for HOXB13-related hereditary prostate cancer. Although females† do not have a prostate and are not at risk for prostate cancer, they still have access to this report in order to provide important information they can share with their family members.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">About this Report</h2>



Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among males,† with nearly 300,000 cases diagnosed each year in the U.S.[1] It is estimated that about 13 percent of males in the general population will develop prostate cancer during their lifetime.[2]



The Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOXB13-Related) Genetic Health Risk report* includes one genetic variant called G84E in the HOXB13 gene, which is associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Males with this variant have a 33–53 percent chance of developing prostate cancer by age 80.[3],[4] People with this variant who develop prostate cancer also tend to do so at an earlier age. Exact risks depend on family history and other factors.



This variant is most common in people of European descent, especially in people of Northern European descent. Up to 1 in 70 people of European descent has the HOXB13 G84E variant.[5] In families of European descent, the G84E variant accounts for up to 5 percent of hereditary prostate cancer. In some Scandinavian countries, this variant accounts for about 22 percent (Finland) and 8 percent (Sweden) of hereditary prostate cancer cases.[6]



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other Factors Also Influence Risk</h2>



It&#8217;s important to remember that only a small percentage of prostate cancer cases are caused by the genetic variant in this report. Variants in other genes can also increase prostate cancer risk, including variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and genes linked to Lynch syndrome. If you have a personal or family history of prostate cancer, it&#8217;s important to talk with a healthcare professional about whether comprehensive clinical genetic testing – which looks at many more variants in many different genes – may be right for you.



In addition, note that the majority of prostate cancer cases are not caused by inherited genetic variants. Besides genetics and family history, many other factors can influence a person’s risk for prostate cancer, including age, lifestyle, and ethnicity. For example, some studies have found that males who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop aggressive forms of prostate cancer, and smoking is associated with an increased risk of dying from prostate cancer. In addition, African Americans have a greater risk of developing prostate cancer than people of other ethnicities: In the U.S., more than 1 in 6 African American males develops prostate cancer by the age of 80, compared to about 1 in 8 males of European descent. African Americans are also more likely to develop prostate cancer at an earlier age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Viewing the Report</h2>



23andMe+ members have the option to view their Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOXB13-Related) Genetic Health Risk report. As with other Genetic Health Risk reports that are considered sensitive, eligible customers must first opt-in to view the report. If they choose to opt in, they will be prompted to complete a short educational tutorial that details some information that is important to know before seeing their results.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Important Limitations of the Report</h2>



23andMe is committed to ensuring that our customers understand not just what it may mean to have a risk variant, but also what it means to not have the variant covered in this report. Specifically, not having the variant — or a negative result — does not mean a person is not at risk of developing prostate cancer. Instead, the report highlights the fact that genetics is just one of many risk factors for prostate cancer.&nbsp;



Male customers with the variant in this report should talk to a doctor. Their doctor could then order confirmatory testing and help them find a screening strategy that is right for them. Screening guidelines for prostate cancer vary. However, some guidelines recommend earlier prostate cancer screening in males with the G84E variant in the HOXB13 gene. If female customers have the variant in this report, we suggest sharing this information with their family members, especially their male relatives.



Finally, the Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOXB13-Related) Genetic Health Risk report is not diagnostic. It is intended for adults only. It is also not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional for recommended screenings or appropriate follow-up. Any result should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your healthcare provider before taking any medical action.



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



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>23andMe+ members can click <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/ghr.hoxb13/">here</a> if they wish to view their report. Customers will be directed to update their report preferences and choose whether to opt in to receive the report. Customers will then need to complete an educational tutorial before viewing their report.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Current 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers on the current genotyping chip can receive this report along with 35+ other reports by joining 23andMe+ from within their account. Learn more<a href="https://you.23andme.com/subscription/"> here</a>.</li>



<li>Not a 23andMe+ customer yet? Learn more about what 23andMe has to offer <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">here</a>.</li>
</ul>



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



<footer class="footnotes"><code style="display: none;">
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</code><a id="f1" href="#a1">[1]</a>American Cancer Society. “Key Statistics for Prostate Cancer.”<a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/about/key-statistics.html</a><footer class="footnotes"><code style="display: none;">
</code>
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<a id="f2" href="#a2">[2]</a>Surveillance Research Program, National Cancer Institute. &#8220;SEER*Explorer: An interactive website for SEER cancer statistics.&#8221; 2017-2019. Retrieved Jan 23, 2023. <footer class="footnotes"><code style="display: none;">
</code>
<a id="f3" href="#a3">[3]</a>Klerk M et al. (2002). Karlsson R et al. (2014). &#8220;A population-based assessment of germline HOXB13 G84E mutation and prostate cancer risk.&#8221; Eur Urol. 65(1):169-76. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22841674/"> </a>
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</code>
<code style="display: none;">
</code><a id="f4" href="#a4">[4]</a>Nyberg T et al. (2019). &#8220;Homeobox B13 G84E Mutation and Prostate Cancer Risk.&#8221; Eur Urol. 75(5):834-845.<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30527799/"> </a></footer>
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</code></footer>
<code style="display: none;">
</code><a id="f5" href="#a5">[5]</a>Karlsson R et al. (2014). &#8220;A population-based assessment of germline HOXB13 G84E mutation and prostate cancer risk.&#8221; Eur Urol. 65(1):169-76.
.<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22841674/"> </a></footer>
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</code></footer>
</code><a id="f6" href="#a6">[6]</a>Xu J et al. (2013). &#8220;HOXB13 is a susceptibility gene for prostate cancer: results from the International Consortium for Prostate Cancer Genetics (ICPCG).&#8221; Hum Genet. 132(1):5-14..<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23064873/"> </a></footer>
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<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



†Within this blog post and the Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOXB13-Related) report, we use the word &#8220;male&#8221; to refer to people whose birth sex is male and have a prostate, and &#8220;female&#8221; to refer to people whose birth sex is female and do not have a prostate. We made this decision as a way of highlighting that HOXB13-related cancer risk depends on whether someone has a prostate. However, we recognize that being categorized by birth sex may be an uncomfortable experience for some people, and we do not mean to delegitimize anyone&#8217;s gender identity. Learn more about why we made this decision in this <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/12279220169623">help article.</a>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-note">Note:</h6>



*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, including the 23andMe PGS Genetic Health Risk Report for Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOXB13-Related). Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. The test is not intended to diagnose any disease and does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing any type of cancer. It 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 treatments. 



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warnings-amp-limitations">Warnings &amp; Limitations:</h6>



 The 23andMe PGS Genetic Health Risk Report for Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOXB13-Related) is indicated for reporting the G84E variant in the HOXB13 gene. The report describes if a person has the G84E variant and if a male is at increased risk for prostate cancer. The variant included in this report is most common in people of European descent, especially in people of Northern European descent. 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 by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action.

An image announcing 23andMe+'s new Hereditary Prostate Cancer (HOBB13-Related) report.

Health + Traits — Page 8