By Jalen Robinson



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

By Mikala Evans, MPH



Welcome to “Mind Body Wellness,” a column that aims to help you develop a deeper understanding of your health. 



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-medium"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="300" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Evans-headshot-300x300.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-32651" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Evans-headshot-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Evans-headshot-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Evans-headshot-271x271.jpeg 271w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Evans-headshot-372x372.jpeg 372w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Evans-headshot.jpeg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mikala Evans, MPH</figcaption></figure>



With genetics in mind, I’m tackling common topics and breaking down issues that impact your health journey. With so much information coming at us daily, it’s hard to know what’s best for our health and what we should ignore. 



Is red wine good for you, or should you never touch alcohol? And what on earth is acetaldehyde? 



Navigating all of this information can be exhausting.



My name is Mikala, and I’m here to be your guide. I don’t mind sifting through studies and papers to summarize key takeaways (because I really like this stuff!)  My interest in science began in college, studying biochemistry. However, it wasn’t until I joined the 23andMe Customer Care team in 2015 and helped people answer questions about their genetic reports through thousands of emails and phone calls that I realized how daunting this journey can be. This ultimately led me to a master’s degree in public health, where I quickly learned that my favorite aspect of graduate school was that it was a little unique. As a teaching assistant in a cell biology course, I loved seeing students’ eyes light up when they finally understood a new biological concept. I felt privileged to help them gain new knowledge and understanding. 



My time in Customer Care and my students’ experience perfectly captures my goal for this blog. Not only do I want to break down health topics, I want you to start to feel more comfortable approaching scientific concept papers. We will cover a range of diverse issues, and I hope you get educational content that leads to conversations, reflection, and even action. 



Join me as I take on diet, exercise, mindfulness, and new developments around common health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer using a holistic lens backed by scientific literature. I can’t wait to start this journey towards improving our understanding of mind and body wellness!



Everything is always better as a game — including biology. Here is the first of many health trivia questions! 



What is the most abundant element in the human body by mass?* (no cheating!)



Mikala Evans&#8217; time with 23andMe goes back to 2015 when she worked with our Customer Care team. She returned to the company after receiving her master&#8217;s in public health from UCLA, where she trained in epidemiology and focused her studies on asthma within a community in Los Angeles exposed to natural gas pollution. After returning to 23andMe, Mikala has worked as a quality engineer focused on compliance. She has a bachelor of science in biochemistry and a minor in religious studies from Washington University in St. Louis. She loves her two nieces and exploring all the natural beauty in Northern California. 



*Answer: Oxygen

Mind Body Wellness

Our customers have redefined prevention for us over the years. Hundreds of them have written to us, telling stories of how they’ve become the hero of their health journey. 



We are continually so inspired by their stories we recently launched a new campaign called The Hero Gene that celebrates some of those customers in their own words.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kenzie-and-shannon-s-brca1-story">Kenzie and Shannon’s BRCA1 Story</h6>



Kenzie and her mom, Shannon, are closer than the average mother and daughter, sharing a love of traveling together and their favorite foods. Kenzie knew there was Ashkenazi Jewish heritage in her background, but with no family history of breast cancer, she did not think there was a need to get screening for BRCA variants. Through 23andMe’s BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk Report,* Kenzie learned she had a BRCA1 variant that put her at a greatly increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.



<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="Photos of Shannon recovering from cancer treatment with Kenzie at her side. Image in upper left was taken on Kenzie's 16th birthday." class="wp-image-31684" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-1011x1024.jpeg 1011w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-296x300.jpeg 296w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-768x778.jpeg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-869x880.jpeg 869w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image0-1-1165x1180.jpeg 1165w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/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>



Women with one of these variants have a <a href="https://www.23andme.com/brca">45-85 percent chance</a> of developing breast cancer and up to a 46 percent chance of developing ovarian cancer by age 70. One of her first thoughts was, “Could my mom have cancer and not know it?” 



Kenzie immediately knew she had to call her mom.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“Mom, I have this gene, and I think you need to get tested.” 



Shannon made an appointment with her oncologist, where she shared the news about Kenzie’s report.  The oncologist referred her to a genetic counselor, who immediately set Shannon up for genetic testing. In addition, the genetic counselor suggested Kenzie talk to her doctor right away for follow-up testing.  After doing so, both were able to take steps to minimize their risks. While Kenzie is opting to go for a less aggressive route of frequent scans and discussing family planning options, Shannon (a cancer survivor) decided to go ahead with preventative surgeries to lower her risk of developing BRCA-associated cancers.  



<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="A phot of Kenzie and her mom Shannon." class="wp-image-31685" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-200x300.jpeg 200w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-768x1152.jpeg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-587x880.jpeg 587w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3604-787x1180.jpeg 787w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/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>



The experience has taught both women how important it is to educate themselves about their health risks, to be proactive about their well-being, and to advocate for themselves to ensure they get the care they need.&nbsp;



“Kenzie’s test and me being able to find out that I was BRCA positive was lifesaving,” said Shannon.&nbsp;



As they prepare to share another holiday together, closer than ever, Kenzie couldn’t help but beam when talking about Shannon, “I&#8217;m really proud of my mom, she&#8217;s taken her health into her hands. Her life is the most important thing to me. She wanted to show me that she will survive.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI6nxWiqpGE
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<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-melissa-s-f5-story">Melissa’s F5 Story</h6>



Melissa developed symptoms of a pulmonary embolism (PE), a blood clot in the lung, after a cross-country flight from Washington to Boston for a nurses conference. As a nurse, Melissa knew her symptoms weren&#8217;t typical but knowing she had an increased likelihood to develop harmful blood clots based on a factor V Leiden variant found by her 23andMe Hereditary Thrombophilia Genetic Health Risk report* prompted her to go to the ER before taking a return flight home.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="698" height="931" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-32365" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-2.jpg 698w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-2-225x300.jpg 225w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-2-660x880.jpg 660w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 698px) 100vw, 698px" /></figure>



Trusting her nurse’s instinct, she pushed to get evaluated a PE. 



“I am not typically … insistent, but I was really insistent on this. I am absolutely sure it&#8217;s going to happen again and I may not have another chance. And I wasn&#8217;t willing to take that chance again.” They confirmed via a blood test and CAT scan that she had developed a PE.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="698" height="931" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-32364" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-1.jpg 698w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-1-225x300.jpg 225w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Melissa-1-660x880.jpg 660w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 698px) 100vw, 698px" /></figure>



She began taking a blood thinner right away so she could fly home. Melissa credits her knowledge of the gene with empowering her to take her health into her own hands, which means even more this time of year.  “My family is sacred to me. It truly is all that matters. I would not have been able to meet my new granddaughter. I truly believe I’m here because of 23andMe. Because I was aware of that gene, and my doctors were aware of that gene, that continues to save my life.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zLbFwbXH7c
</div></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-which-gene-could-empower-you">Which gene could empower you?</h6>



As we’ve heard from these and so many more customers, prevention doesn’t have to be a burden. In fact, it shouldn’t be a burden. Prevention is about advocating for yourself, and your health, so you can continue to live an incredible life for you, your family and friends. That starts with genetic insights that could lead to early detection. We hope you find your customer story. Your gene or genes that empower you, inspire you, help you and that could potentially save your life at the time you need the information most. #prevention



<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. 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. 



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



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

Your Hero Gene

Your genetics aren’t your destiny, but understanding your genetics will help you take control of your future when it comes to your health.



This week we’re introducing 23andMe+ Premium Health TracksSM, a new feature for subscribers. Health Tracks brings some your 23andMe reports to life by enabling you to visualize and interact with your data. The feature makes it easier to understand how lifestyle and genetics may influence your health over time. 



By synthesizing genetic data with data about your lifestyle, Health Tracks allows you to see how making healthy choices each day — eating healthier, walking more, or getting more sleep — can greatly impact your health over time.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="719" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-16-at-3.48.27-PM-1024x719.png" alt="An image of the mobile display for health tracks looking at different trajectories of risk based on genetics, and a healthy lifestyle." class="wp-image-32105" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-16-at-3.48.27-PM-1024x719.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-16-at-3.48.27-PM-300x211.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-16-at-3.48.27-PM-768x539.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-16-at-3.48.27-PM-880x618.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-16-at-3.48.27-PM-1180x828.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screenshot-2023-08-16-at-3.48.27-PM.png 1732w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stay-on-track-nbsp">Stay on Track&nbsp;</h6>



Health Tracks uses data visualization to allow you to see how healthy lifestyle habits can directly impact your health. 23andMe+ Premium members can see how staying on a healthy track can reduce their likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease. Health Tracks allows you to see how making healthy changes could significantly bend the risk curve. It will help steer you toward healthier outcomes, even for those with a higher genetic likelihood of developing one of those conditions.



23andMe+ Premium members should first update their recent lifestyle survey to optimize this feature. Updating this information will allow the feature to make more accurate projections. Health Tracks will initially be available for some of the most common conditions impacting people today. The feature looks at type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease. We hope to add more conditions over time.



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



This new feature is meant to be a feature for you to optimize your health. And it is meant to help motivate you to reach your health goals over time. As they move forward on their health journey we hope people come back to Health Tracks to see how the positive changes they make every day can have a big impact on their health now and in the future.



23andMe+ Premium members can view their <a href="https://you.23andme.com/health/health-tracks/">Health Tracks here</a>.



Not yet a subscriber, take the first step to better health and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">learn more about this feature and all that 23andMe+ Premium has to offer here</a>.

An illustration of a heart for heart health

Stay on Track with 23andMe Health Tracks

Welcome to the 23andMe Museum &#8211; home to exhibits where some of our customers share what they discovered thanks to 23andMe, from ancestry to health to wellness. 



Take a look around the museum and see what you might be able to learn with 23andMe, too.



<iframe loading="lazy" src="https://player.adventr.io/index.html?link=https%3A%2F%2Fd252srr1zuysk4.cloudfront.net%2Fclients%2F4475%2F13254%2Fpublished%2F4475-23andme-museum-06127507.data&#038;initial=v3-openingbuilding-ygoo" width="6400px" height="360px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen allow="autoplay; fullscreen; clipboard-read; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; geolocation; microphone; web-share"></iframe>



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



Find out more about what 23andMe has to offer and the differences between our services <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">here</a>.  



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-share-your-story">Share Your Story</h6>



Have your own 23andMe story to share? You can submit it <a href="https://www.23andme.com/stories/#form">here</a>!

An image of the opening card for the 23andMe Museum interactive video

Explore the Virtual 23andMe Museum

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="693" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Group-125283-1-1024x693.png" alt="" class="wp-image-31016" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Group-125283-1-1024x693.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Group-125283-1-300x203.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Group-125283-1-768x520.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Group-125283-1-880x596.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Group-125283-1-1180x799.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Corie Allessie, Erick Rodriguez, and Kim Gugliotta</figcaption></figure>



On January 1, many of us resolve to change our habits. We vow to move more, sit less, eat better, lose weight, spend wisely, call our mothers, or start a new hobby.&nbsp;



Setting New Year’s resolutions can be a valuable exercise:<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jclp.1151"> research</a> shows that the act of making them increases the likelihood of achieving change.



Whatever your goals are for the new year, here are three stories of 23andMe customers who made positive changes in their lives to inspire and motivate.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-family-gets-healthy-with-some-help-from-mom"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-family-gets-healthy-with-some-help-from-mom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A Family Gets Healthy, with Some Help from Mom</a></h4>



<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-family-gets-healthy-with-some-help-from-mom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Corie Allessie</a>, a retired dental assistant and former Navy jet mechanic, has a few essential rules for healthy living.Never, ever eat in front of the television. Get up and get moving (winter is not an excuse). Prepare healthy food – especially vegetables – ahead of time. Minimize eating out. Walk whenever you can (her preferred walking partner is her 170-pound Saint Bernard, Pete). And keep yourself accountable by writing in a journal or sharing your goals with a friend or family member.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-meat-and-potatoes-to-chicken-and-fish"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/healthier-every-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">From Meat and Potatoes to Chicken and Fish</a></h4>



<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/healthier-every-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Erick Rodriguez</a>, a professional Jiu-Jitsu athlete in the Army reserves, grew up in the Midwest and never thought much about his diet. But the self-proclaimed “meat and potatoes guy” overhauled his lifestyle after learning he was at an increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-the-change"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-heart-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Making the Change</a></h4>



<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-heart-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kim Gugliotta</a> fills her plate with healthy foods like legumes, vegetables, chicken, fish, and tofu. She walks for at least 30 minutes a day. And she’s a regular on the pickleball courts of Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 



But Kim wasn’t always so health conscious. Just a few years ago, she would have opted for “steak and cheeseburgers” and would have been tempted to skip her daily walk.

New Year, New You: Three Stories of Change

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_6510-scaled-e1671646188429-1024x911.jpeg" alt="Brandon Moore photo" class="wp-image-30991"/></figure>



Out with the gluten, in with the gluten-free substitutes.



That’s the new motto for Brandon Moore, who was recently diagnosed with celiac disease.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexplained-symptoms">Unexplained symptoms</h6>



Brandon never knew that all the pizza, pasta, and bread that sustained him were also making him ill.



He’d experienced chronic stomach problems for as long as he could remember, but no doctor or specialist could explain them. “I have done multiple tests looking for various issues like diverticulitis and stomach ulcers,” he said. “My doctors never found anything.”



Then he received a 23andMe Health + Ancestry kit as a gift from his step-grandmother. His <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-report-celiac-disease">23andMe Celiac Disease Genetic Health Risk report*</a> indicated that he had a slightly increased risk of developing celiac disease.&nbsp;



He mentioned his results to his doctor during a routine physical, who ordered a follow-up test. The results confirmed he had the condition.



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



<a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/celiac-disease/">Celiac disease</a> is an autoimmune condition in which the consumption of gluten protein – found in wheat and other grains like barley and rye –&nbsp; can result in damage to the small intestine and cause digestive and non-digestive symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The only known treatment is a gluten-free diet. So, Brandon began reading labels and avoiding everything containing gluten.&nbsp;



Within weeks of going gluten-free, he felt better. His chronic stomach problems abated. And he even began to lose weight. “I feel physically and mentally healthier than I have ever felt in my life,” he said. “I lost 50 pounds; I don’t even get colds anymore!”



Brandon has adjusted to his new gluten-free lifestyle. “I don’t take a lot of risks. It’s just not worth it,” he said. “Even a minuscule amount of gluten will upset my stomach.”



He credits his success to his wife, who helps him research and prepare food: “I couldn’t do it without her. She is my rock.”



He also enjoys introducing his friends to the wide array of gluten-free products that are now available. “We’ll have friends over, and we’ll prepare them hamburgers on gluten-free buns, and honestly, they don’t even know the difference. Everything’s pretty good now!”



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



*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 Celiac Disease Genetic Health Risk report (i) is indicated for reporting of the rs2187668 variant in the HLA-DQA1 gene, which tags the HLA-DQ2.5 haplotype, and the rs7454108 variant near the HLA-DQB1 gene, which tags the HLA-DQ8 haplotype and (ii) describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing celiac disease. The variants included in this report are common in many ethnicities, but are best studied in people of European descent.

The Gift of Health, via a Gluten-Free Diet

Corie Allessie, a retired dental assistant and former Navy jet mechanic, has a few essential rules for healthy living.



&nbsp;Never, ever eat in front of the television. Get up and get moving (winter is not an excuse). Prepare healthy food – especially vegetables – ahead of time. Minimize eating out. Walk whenever you can (her preferred walking partner is her 170-pound Saint Bernard, Pete). And keep yourself accountable, either by writing in a journal or sharing your goals with a friend or family member.



&nbsp;She came up with these guidelines after a 23andMe kit prompted a revaluation of her lifestyle.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="593" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7765-e1651865945218-1024x593.jpg" alt="Corie and her daughter, Cassie" class="wp-image-29723" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7765-e1651865945218-1024x593.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7765-e1651865945218-300x174.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7765-e1651865945218-768x445.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7765-e1651865945218-880x510.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7765-e1651865945218-1180x684.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7765-e1651865945218.jpg 1317w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Corie (left) with her daughter Cassie and her dog Pete </figcaption></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-honest-assessment">An honest assessment</h6>



Corie received 23andMe as a gift from her daughter and was excited to learn more about her genetics. As she waited for her results, she filled out several 23andMe <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/212881977-23andMe-Research-Surveys-and-Questions">research questions</a> about her health.



&nbsp;The questions forced her to take an “honest look” at her choices and habits. “The questions really triggered something for me…maybe my weight gain wasn’t all about the COVID-19 pandemic; maybe it was about my low activity level or my eating patterns,” she said.



This reflection “sparked an interest in being more productive, active, and responsible for my health because what I do now will have an impact later on.”



&nbsp;So she decided to make changes and encouraged her family to do the same.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-we-re-on-the-right-path">&#8220;We&#8217;re on the right path&#8221;</h6>



By following the simple principles outlined above, Corie, her husband, and her daughter have lost over 80 pounds combined. “My daughter is running on the treadmill,” she reported. “My husband is walking more. We’re on the right path.”



And the benefits extend far beyond the scale. She now has renewed energy to do what she loves – playing with her three grandchildren (“who needs a gym, just have grandchildren,” she quipped), and creative writing. She even wrote a poem about her 23andMe experience:



“It came as a gift, but it’s so much more.



It showed me my ancestors from a time before.



Through science, I am able to see,



Those whose DNA is shared with me.



I have a connection with people far and near,



It helped me change, and took away the fear.



Together with the knowledge of my ancestry,



I can make healthy choices.



Thank you, 23andMe!”

A Family Gets Healthy, with Some Help from Mom

In the last two years as interest in consumer DNA testing continues to remain strong, primary care physicians have become increasingly comfortable with discussing these results with their patients, a new study shows.
“This study highlights a significant shift in how primary care physicians view direct-to-consumer genetic health testing,” said L. Okey Onyejekwe Jr., MD, JD, Vice President of Healthcare Operations and Medical Affairs at 23andMe. 
The evolution of views has come as consumer interest in DNA testing remains strong.
“In just two year’s time, the data show primary care physicians are much more accepting, and in some cases wholeheartedly embracing this type of testing, especially tests that include health reports with FDA oversight,&#8221; Dr. Onyejekwe said. &#8220;As more consumers turn to direct-to-consumer genetic testing for health insights into their genome, it’s encouraging to see that primary care physicians are much more open to patients bringing their test results into the clinic for further discussion and potential follow up testing when warranted.” 
&nbsp;

	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Infographic-23andMe-Genetic-Testing-11-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-28720" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Infographic-23andMe-Genetic-Testing-11-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Infographic-23andMe-Genetic-Testing-11-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Infographic-23andMe-Genetic-Testing-11-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Infographic-23andMe-Genetic-Testing-11-880x495.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Infographic-23andMe-Genetic-Testing-11-1180x664.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Infographic-23andMe-Genetic-Testing-11.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
	
<code></code>
<h6>Discussing Results </h6>
According to the study — done by Medscape and in collaboration with 23andMe — primary care physicians’ comfort level in discussing DNA testing results with patients has more than doubled since 2018. 
For this study, researchers surveyed 1,000 primary care physicians to gauge their comfort with genetic testing overall, including assessing attitudes toward direct-to-consumer genetic health testing specifically. The results were then compared to those of a similar survey conducted in 2018. The study found that when compared to two years ago, physicians were twice as likely to be comfortable discussing the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic health testing, as well as interpreting and discussing results of a genetic test. 
<h6>Making Recommendations</h6>
Beyond that, the report also found that 80 percent of primary care physicians are open or likely to recommend direct-to-consumer genetic testing for health if asked about it by their patients, and for 61 percent of primary care physicians, FDA oversight of health reports was a necessary element of any direct-to-consumer genetic test they might recommend.
“The shift in the primary care community’s point of view on genetic testing over a relatively short period of time is striking, and points to the test’s results having greater utility and impact inpatient care,” said Hansa Bhargava, M.D., Medscape Senior Medical Director. “We are pleased that we could contribute to increasing awareness of the role of genetic testing in the primary care environment.”
<h6>Recommending Next Steps</h6>
When it comes to all testing, not just direct-to-consumer tests, 71 percent of primary care physicians said they are comfortable making appropriate referrals to specialists based on genetic information. In 2018, just 44 percent said they were comfortable making such recommendations. Further, 46 percent of the physicians surveyed said they are comfortable ordering genetic testing, which is more than four times as many as 2018. Finally, 41 percent of those surveyed said they are comfortable using genetic information to make treatment decisions, a two-fold increase over 2018. 
The survey indicates a sea change in how primary care physicians perceive direct-to-consumer genetic testing over the last decade and a half.
<h6>Changes Over Time </h6>
Just four years ago, a study by<a href="https://www.genomes2people.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Van-Der-Wouden-et-al-2016.pdf"> the Impact of Personal Genomics Study Group</a> found that many consumers said their physicians were skeptical of direct-to-consumer genetic testing, about 11 percent. The study found that about 22 percent of patients said their physicians were uninterested in their results, and another 22 percent simply didn’t understand the results or lacked knowledge of genetic testing.
In 2019, researchers at Duke University’s Center for Applied Genomics and Precision Medicine and at 23andMe identified a need for more genetics training for primary care physicians.<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6617198/"> The study</a> went on to show that after completing direct-to-consumer testing themselves, many physicians felt much more confident and comfortable discussing direct-to-consumer testing.
23andMe has dedicated resources to support Healthcare Professionals to assist them in becoming familiar with its reports and direct-to-consumer genetic testing for health.

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

Physicians Increasingly Comfortable Discussing Consumer DNA Testing with Patients

This week 23andMe added a new Carrier Status report on familial Mediterranean fever, a genetic disorder that can include periodic fevers and inflammation in the abdomen, chest or joints.
The Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) Carrier Status* report provides information on whether a customer has at least one of seven variants in the MEFV gene. These are not the only variants associated with the condition. However, these are common variants associated with this disorder in people of Arab, Armenian, Sephardic Jewish, and Turkish descent.
<h6>More on Familial Mediterranean Fever</h6>
People with familial Mediterranean fever often have two variants in the MEFV gene, and the disorder often shows up in childhood. Beyond periodic fevers and inflammation, typical symptoms may also include skin rashes. In some cases, FMF can lead to an abnormal buildup of protein in the kidneys.
Among the treatments for FMF are anti-inflammatory drugs that can be used to manage episodes of fever. On some occasions, doctors prescribe drugs to prevent fever attacks and kidney damage, especially for people with the M694V variant. 
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-26776" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Scientific-Detail-FMF-1024x870.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="870" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Scientific-Detail-FMF-1024x870.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Scientific-Detail-FMF-300x255.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Scientific-Detail-FMF-768x653.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Scientific-Detail-FMF-880x748.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Scientific-Detail-FMF.jpg 1172w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />This new Carrier Status report doesn’t diagnose familial Mediterranean fever. Instead, it reports on whether a customer is a carrier for at least one of seven variants in the MEFV gene associated with a risk for FMF.
<h6>Carrier Detection Rate</h6>
<div style="float: right; text-align: justified; width: 300px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 10px;">
<h6>What’s a Carrier Status* Report?</h6>
Carrier status tests are a type of genetic test used to find out if you carry a genetic change – or variant. For the types of conditions included in a carrier status test, having one genetic change – being a carrier – typically means you do not have that condition, but you could pass the variant on to your each of your children.Carrier status tests are typically offered for autosomal recessive conditions [or disorders]. For these conditions, a child needs to inherit a variant from both parents in order to have the condition. If both parents are carriers, each child has a one in four, or 25 percent, chance of being affected with the condition. 
(It’s important to note that this also means that each child has a 75 percent chance of not being affected.)Autosomal recessive conditions for which carrier testing is commonly offered by healthcare providers include cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/sickle-cell-anemia">sickle cell anemia</a>, among many others.
</div>
The &#8220;carrier detection rate&#8221; for this report — which is the percentage of carriers of FMF who are expected to be identified by this test — is from 70 percent to more than 90 percent for people of Arab, Armenian, Sephardic Jewish, and Turkish descent.
The FMF report is the latest in a regular cadence of new health-related reports 23andMe offers <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/">Health+Ancestry</a> Service customers, all of which meet FDA requirements. This brings the total number of <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/#toc-carrierstatus">Carrier Status</a>* reports to 44.
23andMe also offers nine <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/#toc-ghr">Genetic Health Risk</a>* reports, eight Wellness reports on such things as Genetic Weight and Sleep Movement, and more than two dozen different trait reports.
As with other health-related reports, 23andMe has a tutorial that customers can go through before viewing their Familial Mediterranean Fever Carrier Status report. In addition to the tutorial, the report itself offers details on the condition, the specific variants tested for and the scientific information supporting the report. There are also links to information about genetic counseling and support group resources.
<h6>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 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. The Familial Mediterranean Fever Carrier Status Report is indicated for the detection of seven (7) variants in the MEFV gene and is most relevant for people of Arab, Armenian, Sephardic, Jewish, and Turkish descent. For important information and limitations regarding other genetic health risk reports and carrier status reports, visit <a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/">https://www.23andme.com/test-info/</a>.

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