November has become a time to raise awareness about health issues that may particularly impact men. On average in the U.S., men live <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/life-expectancy.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5 years less</a> than women. Oftentimes that difference in life expectancy is because of <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db521.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preventable factors</a>. Knowing about your genetic predisposition to certain health conditions can help you focus on screening and preventative measures. So let&#8217;s take a look at the genetics of some common conditions that impact men.



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



Among men, prostate cancer is the <a href="https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/common.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most common cancer diagnosis</a>. Genetics can impact the risk of developing prostate cancer in a few ways.&nbsp;



Prostate cancer can be caused by <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-new-hereditary-prostate-cancer-hoxb13-related-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rare genetic variants</a> that have a significant impact on risk. For example, a genetic variant in the HOXB13 gene is associated with a 33–53 <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22841674/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">percent</a> <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30527799/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chance</a> of developing prostate cancer by age 80.&nbsp;



Other times, prostate cancer can be influenced by <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/three-new-prs-cancer-reports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">many common genetic variants</a>, each with a small impact on the likelihood of developing cancer but that can make a big impact when taken together. But the work is not done, ongoing research into prostate cancer is also important as many of the genetic variants and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36353656/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">models for prostate cancer</a> may not be as predictive for men not of European descent.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-just-prostate-cancer">Not just prostate cancer</h3>



It&#8217;s also important for men to be aware of their <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-updates-brca1-2-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BRCA1 and BRCA2</a> status. While the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are most often associated with breast and ovarian cancer in women, variants in these genes, particularly BRCA2, can also increase the chances of breast cancer in men along with increasing the risk of developing prostate and pancreatic cancer. In addition, men with genetic variants in the&nbsp; BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes may want to inform their female family members who might share their genetic variant and the increased risk of developing these cancers.



In addition to cancers that impact reproductive organs in men, genetics can impact other kinds of cancer like <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-new-mutyh-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colorectal</a> <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/three-new-prs-cancer-reports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/understand-your-genetics-likelihood-of-developing-skin-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin cancer</a>. And <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comprehensive genetic screening</a> of high-impact, actionable genetic variants associated with cancer are also available.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do">What you can do</h3>



In addition to healthy lifestyle habits and learning about your genetic predispositions, keeping up to date with cancer screenings recommended by your healthcare professional is one of the best ways for men to stay on top of their cancer risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health">Mental Health</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="255" height="100" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/depression_PRS.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34566"/></figure>



While anyone can be impacted by <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health challenges</a>, men may be less likely to receive mental health treatment compared to women.&nbsp;



Many mental health conditions (including <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-new-report-on-bipolar-disorder" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bipolar disorder</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-new-depression-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-report-on-anxiety" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a>, and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-releases-a-panic-attacks-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">panic attacks</a>) are also impacted by many common genetic variants, as well as many other complex factors that may include brain chemistry, hormones, life experiences, and environmental stressors.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do-0">What you can do</h3>



While not all mental health conditions can be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle (including a good diet and sleep habits, exercising, and avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drug use) can help prevent or manage symptoms. There are also professional options including medication and counseling. And, while sometimes difficult, seeking social support from family and friends can help men navigate mental health struggles.&nbsp;



If you’re in a crisis, help is available. <a href="https://988lifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Call or text 988</a> in the U.S. or <a href="https://findahelpline.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">find a helpline in your area.</a>.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-discoveries">Ongoing discoveries</h3>



There&#8217;s still much that we don&#8217;t know about the genetics of many mental health conditions. The hope is that by continuing to support <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/affect-study" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> into conditions such as <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/landmark-study-breaks-new-ground-in-depression-genetics-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, the 23andMe Research Institute can partner with consented research participants to drive new discoveries, new ways of <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/predicting-treatment-resistant-depression-using-23andme-survey-data" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">identifying who may be at risk</a> for certain conditions, and ultimately new treatments.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-disease">Heart Disease</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="240" height="104" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/heart_disease_PRS.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34568"/></figure>



Finally, heart disease remains the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/men-and-heart-disease.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">number one cause of death in men</a>. There are <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/heart-health-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a number of different heart health conditions that are impacted by genetics</a> (for example, cholesterol levels, atrial fibrillation, and coronary artery disease). While you can’t change your genetics, getting regular <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/heart-health-screenings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recommended screenings</a> for things like <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-expands-blood-testing-biological-age" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cholesterol</a> and blood pressure can help you know where your current heart health stands. This is especially important for men because a 2022 survey from the Cleveland Clinic showed that <a href="https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2022/09/07/cleveland-clinic-survey-reveals-mens-top-health-concerns-as-they-age" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than half of men are not getting regular health screenings</a>.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do-1">What you can do</h3>



While you can’t change your genetics, there&#8217;s a lot that you can do to protect your heart health.&nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Know your numbers. Be among the half of men who DO get regular check-ups for blood pressure and cholesterol.</li>



<li>Get moving. Even a 30-minute walk most days makes a huge difference. And if you&#8217;re already moving, level up the intensity</li>



<li>Eat smart. Focus on vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, and watch your salt and sugar intake.</li>



<li>Find your calm. Chronic stress is tough on your heart. Find healthy ways to manage it. Try breathing techniques or meditation.</li>



<li>If you smoke, make a plan to stop. It&#8217;s one of the best things you can do for your heart.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taking-charge-of-your-health">Taking Charge of Your Health</h2>



Understanding your genetic predispositions for conditions like cancer, heart disease, and mental health challenges is a powerful first step. This knowledge is most effective when combined with proactive lifestyle choices, open conversations with healthcare professionals, and regular health screenings. By focusing on these actionable steps, men can take control of their well-being and work towards a longer, healthier life. 



NOTE: Within this blog post, we use the word “men” to refer to people whose sex assigned at birth is male. However, we recognize that not everyone who experiences these health conditions will identify as male, and being categorized by birth sex may be an uncomfortable experience for some people. We do not mean to delegitimize anyone’s gender identity. Learn more about how 23andMe uses sex and gender to help deliver or interpret results for certain health, wellness, and traits topics that you may choose to receive in this <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010964373-How-23andMe-Uses-Your-Genetic-Sex-Birth-Sex-and-Gender" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help article</a>.

Let’s Talk About Men’s Health

But you might be even more special than any of us suspected, and we want to learn a little more about that.



23andMe’s unique research model allows our scientists to leverage data from millions of customers who consent to participate in our research. This gives us data at unprecedented scale to reveal more quickly and efficiently not just the causes for illness but also their potential treatments. 



That’s the power of “big data.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-25916" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-880x495.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-1180x663.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz.jpg 1366w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



But there’s also power in small data — finding individuals whose genetics makes them especially interesting. 



So 23andMe researchers are undertaking a pilot project that will include several dozen customers who’ve consented to participate in research and have something unique in their genome that could help our scientists to better understand metabolic conditions such as heart disease or type 2 diabetes. These customers have agreed to be re-contacted by 23andMe researchers.



Along with looking at genetics, health history and the conditions research participants report that they currently have, we’ll also be adding basic blood panel data from these individuals — such as lipid levels and glucose. For this data we’ll be enlisting the help of<a href="https://ixlayer.com/"> ixlayer</a>, a leading remote diagnostic testing platform. <a href="https://ixlayer.com/">ixlayer</a> will be coordinating both the at-home blood draw experience and the lab work at a national scale and then 23andMe will be incorporating that data into our analysis.



So, what’s so interesting about adding this kind of data to the data we already have, and why are we focused on just a few dozen individuals?



<div style="float: right; text-align: justified; width: 300px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 10px;">Research Opportunities Based on Your Unreported Genetics

The participants in this study represent a group of our research participants who’ve gone through an additional layer of consent.
For this research our research participants have opted-in to being contacted by our researchers about research opportunities based on genetic information not included in their 23andMe reports.
These research opportunities might be related to specific conditions for which we currently do not yet have a report. Those who agree to participate and who are contacted for specific studies may only learn about the condition being studied but not the specific variant.
Like all our research, participants must opt-in to be included, and those who are currently participating can change their minds and then opt-out at any time.
Interested in 23andMe Research? 
Find out more <a href="https://research.23andme.com/">here</a>.
</div>



We’ll explain.



Studying individuals who maybe would be expected to have a condition but do not because of something in their genome, or other individuals who are healthy but have a rare genetic variant that turns off the function of a gene, could tell us a lot about certain diseases and potential ways to treat them.



People who have a rare genetic variant that turns off a gene, known as a “loss of function” variant, or others who have a variant that heightens the expression of a gene or gives it a new activity, known as a “gain of function” variant, offer researchers the potential to find much deeper insight. 



In cases where healthy individuals have one of these rare variants in a gene that is also associated with a condition — say high or low cholesterol — it indicates for those studying these conditions whether boosting or diminishing the function of that gene to treat an illness may be safe to do. Individuals with rare genotypes can offer insights not just into a specific disease, they can also give insight into whether a specific drug is safe or not.



There are already real-world examples of how this works. The most cited is that of extremely rare individuals who have dual “loss of function” variants in the gene PCSK9, which is involved with the regulation of the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Individuals who had loss of function variants in both copies of that gene were shown to have very low LDL levels, or so called “bad” cholesterol, but importantly, were otherwise healthy despite having no PCSK9 function. Medications were developed that inhibited PCSK9, lowering LDL levels and in turn substantially reducing the risk for a cardiovascular event.



There are other examples of individuals who had something in their genome that made them resistant to certain diseases like HIV, Alzheimer’s disease or diabetes. A deeper understanding about what in their genome contributes to that could help those studying these conditions and looking for new treatments.



That’s the motivation with this small pilot study. The first step is finding these special individuals, and then it’s gathering data for a deeper understanding of what makes them unique. Ultimately, the hope is that this will lead to potential treatments and cures.



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



About ixlayer



<a href="https://ixlayer.com/">ixlayer</a> is redefining next generation patient experiences for lab testing and better health outcomes. They make it easy for people to test outside of clinical settings and take proactive steps towards better health. ixlayer collaborates with a wide variety of organizations to create configurable solutions for their patients and research participants. Their platform enables patient-friendly digital experiences, 1000s of testing options and seamless integration with their customers and lab partners.&nbsp;



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

We Know You’re Special

We often hear that heart disease is the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/data-research/facts-stats/">leading cause of death in the United States</a>. This statistic is especially top of mind during February, which is American Heart Month and Heart Month in many other countries. But did you know that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38264914/">~50% of adults over 40 may have hidden heart disease</a>, and <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/01/190131084238.htm">80% of cardiovascular disease is preventable</a>?



For those looking to take control of their heart health, learning about your risk factors, including what your genetics might say about your risk, is an important first step. 23andMe offers four kinds of genetic reports related to heart health:



Genetic Health Risk Reports*: Rare genetic variants that lead to high risk for heart attack, heart failure, and/or stroke. Included in the Health + Ancestry, 23andMe+ Premium, and Total Health services



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Familial Hypercholesterolemia</li>



<li>Hereditary Amyloidosis (TTR-Related)</li>
</ul>



<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/after-the-click-paulo">Learn what Paulo did after finding out he had a genetic variant in the TTR gene</a>



Polygenic Risk Scores*: Combinations of common genetic variants that impact the chances of developing heart-related conditions and traits. Included in the 23andMe+ Premium and Total Health



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Atrial Fibrillation</li>



<li>Coronary Artery Disease</li>



<li>High Blood Pressure</li>



<li>LDL Cholesterol</li>



<li>HDL Cholesterol</li>



<li>Triglycerides</li>



<li>Type 2 Diabetes (also included in the Health + Ancestry service)</li>
</ul>



Pharmacogenetics Reports**: Genetic variants that impact how your body may process certain heart-related medications. Included in 23andMe+ Premium and Total Health



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>SLCO1B1 Drug Transport
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Simvastatin Medication Insight</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>CYP2C19 Drug Metabolism
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Clopidogrel Medication Insight</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



Exome-based Reports for Total Health™ members?: Comprehensive genetic screen of high-impact, actionable genetic variants associated with arrhythmia syndromes, aortic and other blood vessel syndromes, cardiomyopathies, and high cholesterol and heart attack.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Hereditary Cardiovascular Disease (44 genes tested)</li>
</ul>



While genetics influences the likelihood of developing heart disease, lifestyle—<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetics-and-a-healthy-heart">diet, exercise, sleep and stress</a>—often plays an outsized role in heart health. While you can’t change your genetics, you can do a lot to protect the health of your heart by changing your lifestyle. Cutting out smoking, reducing stress, exercising more, and eating right can go a long way towards keeping your heart healthy.



Finally, getting <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/heart-health-screenings">regular recommended screenings</a> for things like your cholesterol and blood pressure can help you know where your current heart health stands, and if there may be any lifestyle or other changes you may need to make. In addition to these common biomarkers, advanced blood tests for heart health can include other lipids associated with increased risk of heart disease, including:&nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Apolipoprotein B (ApoB). The main protein in several types of &#8220;bad&#8221; cholesterol, including LDL.</li>



<li>Lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)). A type of LDL &#8220;bad&#8221; cholesterol. Lp(a) particles are considered the most &#8220;sticky&#8221; and therefore most likely to cause blockages. </li>
</ul>



While heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, understanding and managing your heart health is within your control. By learning about your genetic risks, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, and monitoring key biomarkers, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing cardiovascular conditions. Taking action today can pave the way for a healthier tomorrow, and with the right tools and knowledge, you can take charge of your heart health at any age.



Disclaimers:



*The 23andMe PGS test includes health predisposition and carrier status reports. Health predisposition reports include both reports that meet FDA requirements for genetic health risks and PRS reports which are based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants, and have not been reviewed by the FDA. The test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks 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. Each PRS report describes if a person has a certain likelihood of developing a condition, but does not describe a person’s overall likelihood. 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. Warnings &amp; Limitations:. These reports are for over-the-counter use by adults, and provide 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 genetic health risk reports, visit 23andme.com/test-info/.



**23andMe PGS Pharmacogenetics reports: The 23andMe test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 3 variants in the CYP2C19 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. Results for certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action. Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding Pharmacogenetic reports, visit 23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/



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

An illustration of a heart for heart health

A Healthy Heart: The Power of Genetics and Healthy Habits

Kim Gugliotta, 56, 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.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-the-change">Making the change</h6>



Just a few years ago, she would have opted for “steak and cheeseburgers” and would have been tempted to skip her daily walk. But once she received reports from her <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/">23andMe Health + Ancestry test</a>, everything changed.



Kim, a 23andMe+ member, discovered from her reports that she had an increased genetic likelihood of developing coronary artery disease, something she’d not heard before nor expected given that she had no family history of it. A visit to her cardiologist revealed that she had dyslipidemia, an imbalance of lipids that contributes to the development of clogged arteries. She was immediately put on medication and counseled about lifestyle changes.



She considers herself lucky. 



“My doctor was able to prescribe me a statin which probably saved me from years of damage to my arteries! And prolonged my life,” Kim said.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Take Action for Heart Health" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8DL401qjdoU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-health">Heart health</h6>



Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women and men in the US, killing more than 600,000 people each year, <a href="https://www.waff.com/2022/03/09/take-action-your-heatlh-with-23and-me/">said</a> Davis Liu, M.D., chief clinical officer and physician for <a href="https://www.lemonaidhealth.com/">Lemonaid Health</a>. Lifestyle changes, medication, and genetic testing can all be part of a proactive strategy to protect and improve heart health.



“At 23andMe, we have about <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/health-traits/heart-health/">eight reports</a>* that touch on your heart health in one way or another,” <a href="https://www.wtkr.com/coast-live/genetic-testing-for-heart-health-on-coast-live">explained</a> Alisa Lehman, Ph.D., a senior product scientist at 23andMe. “In these reports, we can tell you if you have an increased likelihood of developing conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and coronary artery disease. Once you have that information, you can work with your doctor to make a plan to try and prevent or manage those conditions.”



Kim knows firsthand just how important that information can be.&nbsp;



“This is our health – let’s find out what kind of issues we may or may not have.”



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



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

What 23andMe can Reveal about Heart Health

Editor&#8217;s note: Since we last posted this we&#8217;ve added two new health reports and so we&#8217;ve updated this post for Heart Health Month 2022.&nbsp;
February is American Heart Month: a time to learn about heart disease and healthy lifestyle actions you can take to prevent it.
Heart disease is responsible for over 600,000 deaths in the U.S. each year making it the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm">leading (non-pandemic) cause of death in the U.S</a>. Heart disease includes a number of different conditions that relate to your heart&#8217;s rhythm, muscle, and blood vessels. Luckily there are things we can all do to lower our risk for, or even prevent heart disease. Learning about what your genetics can tell you about your heart, can be a good first step.
<h6>Explore Heart Health</h6>
23andMe Health + Ancestry Service offers a number of reports* on heart-related conditions to explore:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic condition associated with very high levels of cholesterol in the blood, specifically low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or &#8220;bad&#8221; cholesterol. High cholesterol due to FH increases the risk for early cardiovascular disease, which can lead to a heart attack.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">TTR-related hereditary amyloidosis is a genetic condition caused by the buildup of a protein called transthyretin in the body&#8217;s tissues and organs. This protein buildup, called amyloidosis, can damage different parts of the body including the heart, which can lead to heart failure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Type 2 diabetes: In type 2 diabetes, sugar builds up in the blood, which over time can lead to complications like heart disease and stroke. This report is powered by 23andMe Research and can tell you about your genetic chances of developing this condition.</li>
</ul>

	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="545" height="1024" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-545x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28529" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-545x1024.png 545w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-160x300.png 160w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-768x1444.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-468x880.png 468w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-628x1180.png 628w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1.png 982w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 545px) 100vw, 545px" /></figure>
	
<h6>Looking to Go Deeper</h6>
For those who want to explore, even more, we offer 23andMe+, an annual membership with 10+ exclusive reports and features delivered to you throughout the year. Some of those exclusive reports, powered by 23andMe Research, include heart-related conditions to explore:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Atrial fibrillation is a common type of irregular heartbeat. It occurs when the two upper chambers of the heartbeat irregularly. People with atrial fibrillation have a higher risk for blood clots, stroke, and heart failure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Coronary artery disease is a type of heart disease that is typically caused by the buildup of a waxy, cholesterol-containing substance called plaque inside the coronary arteries, which are the major blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen-rich blood. When plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, the vessels narrow, and blood flow to the heart is decreased.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is when the blood puts too much pressure on the walls of blood vessels, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">HDL cholesterol, &nbsp;the so-called “good cholesterol,” higher levels of high-density lipoprotein, HDL, are &nbsp;associated with a lower risk for heart disease. That’s because HDL acts like an arterial cleanser, removing cholesterol from blood vessels and taking it back to the liver for its removal from the body. This helps prevent LDL cholesterol from building up on the walls of blood vessels and restricting blood flow.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">LDL cholesterol, or “bad cholesterol” can increase your risk for heart attack or stroke. This report can tell customers who don&#8217;t have a genetic variant detected in their Familial Hypercholesterolemia Genetic Health Risk report, about their chances of having high levels of &#8220;bad&#8221; cholesterol.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Triglycerides — a type of fat, or lipid, that the body uses to store energy from food for future use. High triglyceride levels are associated with an increased likelihood of developing heart disease, stroke, and sometimes pancreatitis.</li>
</ul>
Learning more about your genetics can help by raising your awareness of certain heart-related conditions. But it&#8217;s also important to keep in mind that things like your family history, ethnicity, and age can also affect your chances of developing these conditions.
Knowing about your genetics isn&#8217;t the end. Taking healthy actions to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar can help lower your risk for heart disease. For many heart-related conditions, your everyday actions play a big role in your overall chances of developing (or developing serious complications from) the condition. Maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and eating a heart-healthy diet are some of the recommended ways to keep our hearts healthy. This American Heart Month, think about any new actions you can take to keep your heart beating its best.
<hr>
*23andMe health predisposition reports include both reports that meet FDA requirements for genetic health risks and reports which are based on 23andMe research and have not been reviewed by the FDA. The test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The test is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication, how much of a medication you should take, or determine any treatment. For important information and limitations regarding each genetic health risk report, visit 23andme.com/test-info/.

Take Action for Heart Health

Pre-pandemic, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm">heart disease</a> kills more Americans than any other condition each year. So understanding your risks for heart disease and learning how to mitigate them is a good first step toward prevention.
Heart disease itself is really several different conditions but the most common is coronary artery disease which develops due to a build-up of plaque that narrows your arteries and restricts blood flow. Over time, this can affect your heart&#8217;s rhythm, damage your heart muscles, obstruct blood flow, and put you at a higher risk of heart attack or stroke.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-28529 size-medium" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-160x300.png" alt="" width="160" height="300" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-160x300.png 160w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-545x1024.png 545w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-768x1444.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-468x880.png 468w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1-628x1180.png 628w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Heart-Health-Intro-1-1.png 982w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" />
<h6>A Healthy Heart</h6>
The best recipe for a healthy heart is eating right, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight. But understanding other underlying risks for heart disease is also important. Your family&#8217;s health history, age, and ethnicity can all play a role in your risk for heart disease. Taking healthy actions to lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can help reduce your risk.
23andMe’s Health + Ancestry Service offers several reports that look at heart-related conditions, including reports on familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), TTR-related hereditary amyloidosis, and type 2 diabetes (powered by 23andMe research).* 
<h6>Going Deeper</h6>
But for customers who want to go deeper, we also offer <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmeplus">23andMe+ Premium</a>, an annual membership with 10+ exclusive reports and features delivered to you throughout the year‡. Among those reports and features, there are reports powered by 23andMe research on a <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/health-traits/heart-health/">number of heart-related conditions</a>, including atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and LDL cholesterol.
Just added to that list is a 23andMe+ Premium report on Triglycerides — a type of fat, or lipid, that the body uses to store energy from food for future use. High triglyceride levels are associated with an increased likelihood of developing heart disease, stroke, and sometimes pancreatitis.
<h6>Triglycerides Report</h6>
The 23andMe+ Premium Triglycerides report is powered by a statistical model using data from millions of 23andMe customers who consented to participate in research. Unlike Genetic Health Risk reports* that use a few variants known to have a large impact on risk-based on external studies, the report, powered by 23andMe research, creates a polygenic score that includes more than 4,000 genetic markers to estimate the likelihood of developing high triglyceride levels. Having high triglyceride levels is defined as 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) or more. The model also takes into account a customer&#8217;s ethnicity and sex. The report does not diagnose high triglycerides. If you are concerned about your likelihood of developing high triglycerides, or have questions about your report, consult with a healthcare professional.
Many people in the U.S. develop high triglycerides levels, but because there are typically no symptoms many remain unaware that their levels are elevated. Most people only learn that they have an issue because they’ve had a lipid panel done, so learning about an increased genetic likelihood could start a conversation with a doctor and spur action to lower their chances. Healthy lifestyle habits can help lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke. Those actions include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding sugary foods, and replacing saturated fats in your diet with healthier unsaturated fats. Those are fats from vegetable oils, nuts, and fish, for example. It&#8217;s also recommended to limit alcohol consumption. Also, regular exercise — 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise on most days of the week — can go a long way toward <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/">maintaining heart health</a>.
Find out more about 23andMe&#8217;s Health + Ancestry Service or 23andMe+ Premium membership go <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry?sub=ver2&amp;cabt=nao">here</a>.
<hr />
*23andMe health predisposition reports include both reports that meet FDA requirements for genetic health risks and reports which are based on 23andMe research and have not been reviewed by the FDA. The test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The test is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication, how much of a medication you should take, or determine any treatment. For important information and limitations regarding each genetic health risk report, visit 23andme.com/test-info/.
‡ 10+ reports and features will be added annually from January to December.

Heart Disease and Triglycerides, A New 23andMe+ Premium Report

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have identified three genes associated with heart failure, a devastating condition that affects an estimated 23 million people worldwide.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/heartman-300x223.jpg" alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2759" width="300" height="223" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/heartman-300x223.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/heartman.jpg 350w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
&nbsp;
The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-14843-7">study</a>, the largest to date genome-wide association study on heart failure, also found shared genetic associations between heart failure and known heart failure risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation. The scientists also found strong associations with pulmonary conditions and musculoskeletal traits.

<h6>New Insight</h6>
The study offers researchers new insight into the underlying biology of heart failure, something that is still poorly understood, according to lead author Dr. Marios Arvanitis, a postdoctoral clinical and research fellow at Johns Hopkins University­ Division of Cardiology.
&nbsp;
As their heart gradually weakens, people with heart failure often end up with health problems. Those include difficulty breathing, fatigue, and swelling of the legs and abdomen. These effects often lead to other issues, and the condition is the leading cause of hospitalization in the United States. Scientists have long established that there is a genetic component to heart failure. Estimates are that the heritablity of heart failure is about 26 percent. But the biological underpinnings of why it develops is poorly understood.
<h6>Three Genes</h6>
This study identified three variants associated with the condition in three different genes. One of those genes is involved in the regulation of muscles in the heart. Two of the genetic variants are newly associated with heart failure. The third has been previously identified. The three strongest associations were in the genes PITX2, ACTN2, and ABO.
&nbsp;
To identify these genetic associations, researchers first used data from almost half a million individuals, including about 10,000 people with heart failure. This data came mainly from the UK Biobank. The researchers also pooled data from several other studies as part of a meta-analysis. After identifying the three strongest associations, the researchers then replicated their findings. They used data from more than 1.6 million 23andMe customers who consented to participate in research. The 23andMe dataset included data from more than 27,000 individuals with heart failure.
<h6>Shared Genetics</h6>
The study also looked at the shared genetics between heart failure and several other conditions. Researchers found shared genetics between heart failure and pulmonary, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal conditions.
&nbsp;
“This is another illustration of 23andMe’s research model,” said Adam Auton, Ph.D., 23andMe’s principal scientist in statistical genetics. “By collaborating with expert researchers outside of 23andMe, we are able to use projects such as this to advance biomedical genetic research.”
The study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-14843-7">Nature Communications</a>.

New Genetic Associations Identified for Heart Failure

23andMe announced this week that it would add access to genetic information to ResearchKit, an open source framework introduced by Apple <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-23714" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Phone-Iimage-145x300.jpg" alt="Phone Iimage" width="300" height="619" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Phone-Iimage-145x300.jpg 145w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Phone-Iimage-496x1024.jpg 496w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Phone-Iimage-427x880.jpg 427w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Phone-Iimage-572x1180.jpg 572w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Phone-Iimage.jpg 716w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />that allows researchers and developers to create powerful apps for medical research.
As an update to their existing studies, scientists at <a href="http://apps.icahn.mssm.edu/asthma/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mount Sinai</a> and <a href="https://med.stanford.edu/myheartcounts/faq.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Stanford</a> will be the first to use 23andMe&#8217;s module to incorporate genetic information from 23andMe in their research.
It is 23andMe’s first foray in what will likely be many efforts to leverage mobile technology for collecting more than just survey data as we currently do. In this case, it will be used to study asthma and heart disease.


The updated apps developed for the studies also allow 23andMe customers to easily participate after a simple informed consent process. These studies have great potential to uncover new information about asthma and heart disease. But beyond that, they also hint at the potential of integrating mobile technology into ongoing genetic research.
Scientists are already marveling at how smartphones could power this kind of research.
“Phones are always with you,” said Rob Borkowski, Ph.D., 23andMe&#8217;s Platforms Product Manager. “So unlike with a computer, you don’t have to log on and then fill in information about your activity. Your phone can record that kind of information automatically.”


A smart phone can seamlessly track activity, sleep or even the rate of your tapping, said Rob. For researchers, this kind of real-time information could help them follow the progression of an illness, and for patients a smartphone can give them a simple way of recording symptoms as they happen.
<div id="attachment_21761" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-21761" class="wp-image-21761 size-medium" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-300x300.jpeg" alt="RobSquare" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-880x880.jpeg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-1180x1180.jpeg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-271x271.jpeg 271w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-372x372.jpeg 372w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-574x574.jpeg 574w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare-980x980.jpeg 980w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RobSquare.jpeg 1925w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Rob Borkowski, 23andMe&#8217;s Platforms Product Manager</div>
23andMe&#8217;s unique research platform is centered on engaging easily with customers. It offers people a simple way to participate in research if they wish, while also learning about themselves.
By leveraging online tools, 23andMe&#8217;s platform has already proven that it can accelerate the pace of research.
By integrating the smartphone into that process, it adds another layer of information for researchers to parse. It also makes it that much simpler for people to participate and that much easier for researchers to collect new kinds of data, said Gregory Frank, 23andMe’s director of business development.


Other researchers are already using smartphones to do such things as study the progression of neurodegenerative diseases by tracking changes in how patients click on their phones or gauge differences in the pace of their steps, said Gregory.
Beyond that there is the sheer number of mobile phones, even in undeveloped areas.
This opens up other avenues to find under served communities not just for researchers but for both doctors and patients interested in the delivery of mobile health care. In the short term the availability of mobile phones makes it easier to both participate in research and gather data for research.


As part of this broader effort to leverage mobile technology, 23andMe will allow researchers to broaden their efforts at recruiting not just to current 23andMe customers but enlist new participants through the ResearchKit app. (New participants get a free 23andMe kit as part of the project.) What makes this new feature attractive is that it gives scientists another tool for the sometimes difficult task of recruiting research participants.
It’s a turnkey feature for researchers, and for those who choose to participate they in turn get to contribute to research while also getting access to genetic information about themselves.

Mobile Research at 23andMe

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-17819" title="mediterranean diet" alt="" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/mediterranean-diet-200x300.jpg" width="200" height="300" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/mediterranean-diet-200x300.jpg 200w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/mediterranean-diet.jpg 283w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" />
Your diet has a huge impact on your health, particularly influencing your risk for things like heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.
Your genetics equally contributes to your risk for heart disease the same as your diet, your environment and overall lifestyle does.
Understanding your risks can help you take the right actions to stay as healthy as you can. With heart disease, the simplest ways to reduce your risk is with diet and exercise. A recent<a href="http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1200303?query=featured_home?=article"> Spanish study</a> published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that changing what you eat may go a long way at protecting you from heart disease. The study suggests a Mediterranean diet – which is rich in vegetables, fruit, legumes, fish, olive oil and nuts – can significantly reduce the risk of death from heart attack or stroke in people at highest risk.
<div style="float: right; text-align: justified; width: 200px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 10px;">
How Your Body Responds 

A Mediterranean diet could ward off heart disease, but how does it effect whether you gain or lose weight?
Your genetics can influence how your body metabolizes and uses food. This   explains a bit about why some people have a much easier time losing weight than others.
</div>
The study gives hope. The researchers looked at more than 7,000 Spaniards who were overweight, smoked or had other conditions that put them at them at higher risk for heart disease. The participants ranged in age from 55 to about 80. Researchers at the University of Barcelona separated the participants into three groups, one on a Mediterranean diet, another group that were on a Mediterranean diet that included additional extra virgin olive oil, nuts, fish, vegetables, fruit and wine. And a third group that was simply advised to stay on a low-fat diet.
About five years into the work, the benefits of the Mediterranean diet were so strong – groups on the Mediterranean diets were 30 percent less likely to have a heart attack or stroke – that the researchers stopped the study early.
While there are some caveats to the study, it strongly suggests a simple change in what you eat – independent of whether you lose weight or exercise – could significantly reduce your risk for heart disease. This is particularly good news for people who want to lower their risk but are having a hard time losing weight.
While the benefits for this high-risk, elderly population of Spaniards seems pretty clear, what is less clear is whether changing to a Mediterranean diet would offer the same benefits for everyone. Because the study specifically looked at people who were at high risk for heart disease, it’s unclear if diet alone can reduce heart disease risk in the general population, too. Unfortunately the study also didn’t look at how people with different genetics might respond to the diet changes. We know genetics has a strong influence on your risk for heart disease, but we don’t know if people with different genetics would respond differently to this diet.
Whether the benefits could apply to people who are at low risk is not yet known, but it probably couldn’t hurt to reduce the amount of sweets, saturated fats and processed foods in favor of a diet rich in olive oil, nuts, beans, fish, fruits and vegetables. The fact that the diet also includes a drink of wine with each meal is a nice bonus as well.

Heart Disease, Genetics and the Mediterranean Diet

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-17528 size-full" title="Tetralogy_of_Fallot.svg" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Tetralogy_of_Fallot.svg_-e1682537405785.png" alt="" width="477" height="323" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Tetralogy_of_Fallot.svg_-e1682537405785.png 477w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Tetralogy_of_Fallot.svg_-e1682537405785-300x203.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 477px) 100vw, 477px" />Image by Mariana Ruiz LadyofHats [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
By Bethann Hromatka, Ph.D.
New research suggests that a once-fatal <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Congenital_disorder">congenital</a> heart defect – sometimes called “blue baby syndrome” – is influenced by genetic factors that are broadly found in the general population.
Different heart malformations lead to poor oxygenation of the blood and a bluish discoloration of the skin, but the most common culprit (affecting three in 10,000 births) is a condition called tetralogy of Fallot (fah-LO), or TOF. Before the first heart surgery was pioneered for this condition in the mid 1940s, about 80 percent of affected children died before the age of ten.
<h6>Genetic Factors and non-genetic factors</h6>
Like most heart malformations that arise in the womb, it’s not possible to point to a single causative factor for TOF. A number of non-genetic factors increase risk – alcoholism and diabetes in the mother as well as poor nutrition and certain infections during pregnancy.
But there are also <a href="http://circgenetics.ahajournals.org/content/3/2/122.long">hints</a> that TOF is more common in some families, raising the possibility that genetics also plays a role.
<h6>A new study on TOF</h6>
The new <a href="http://hmg.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2013/01/08/hmg.dds552.long">study</a> led by Dr. Heather Cordell from the Institute of Genetic Medicine in Newcastle provides insight into the genetic underpinnings of TOF. Dr. Cordell and colleagues carried out the first genome-wide association study (GWAS) on this condition in around 1,600 people of European ancestry and found two genetic variants associated with TOF. Their findings were published in the journal Human Molecular Genetics.
The first variant is located in a region of chromosome 12 (12q24) that has previously been associated with numerous complex conditions including coronary artery disease and autoimmune disease. The second variant is located in a gene called GPC5 that encodes a protein called glypican 5.
<h6>Other previously identified variants</h6>
Previous <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1769721208001365">studies</a> have linked deletions near this gene with heart malformations including TOF.  A few other markers were also suggestively linked to TOF and it’s possible that future, larger studies might solidify their involvement.
This is the first study to suggest that common genetic factors in developing fetus play a role in TOF. Roughly 30 percent of people have at least one risky version of the SNPs discussed here, but each variant only increases risk slightly. Combine these genetic factors with environmental cues and the scale might tip towards TOF.
February is American Heart Month.

Heart Disease