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

Have you ever wondered how to get started with 23andMe? 



Check out this interactive game and learn just how easy it is to submit your DNA sample. From selecting your kit to providing your saliva sample and sending it off to our labs to be processed.



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-so-easy">It’s so easy!</h6>



<div style="padding-bottom: 56.25%; position: relative; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%;"><iframe src="https://player.adventr.io/index.html?link=https%3A%2F%2Fd252srr1zuysk4.cloudfront.net%2Fclients%2F4475%2F12895%2Fpublished%2F4475-it-s-so-easy-23andme-interactive-game-60365084.data&#038;initial=v2-10-opening-j9hc" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; clipboard-read; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; geolocation; microphone" style="position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%;"></iframe></div>

An image of video for 23andMe it's so easy, that is an interactive game

23andMe, It’s So Easy

In the interest of clarity and transparency, 23andMe has made some improvements to its <a href="https://www.23andme.com/legal/privacy/">Privacy pages</a>. We’re really excited to share the details of the changes in the Privacy Statement in particular. 
We’ve simplified the language within our Privacy Statement, Terms of Service, and other legal documents with the goal of making them easier to understand and more accessible. 
These improvements don’t change the substance of our Privacy Statement (or Terms of Service); instead, they simplify how we communicate the ways in which your data is stored, used, and protected at 23andMe, or how you can use the Services. We encourage you to take a look, but below is a short overview of some highlights.

	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="524" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-1024x524.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-29797" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-1024x524.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-300x154.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-768x393.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-880x451.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-1180x604.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide.jpg 1562w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
	
<h6>What You’ll Find</h6>
The new Privacy Statement <a href="https://www.23andme.com/privacy/">landing page</a> offers a hub from which it is easy to quickly find and navigate to specific areas of privacy, whether you want to learn how 23andMe handles <a href="https://www.23andme.com/about/cookies/">cookies</a> or <a href="https://www.23andme.com/about/biobanking/">biobanking</a>, or how we comply with <a href="https://www.23andme.com/about/california-privacy/">California consumer privacy laws</a>.
The Privacy pages also highlight some of the privacy-related choices a customer can make and what each of those choices means. For example, we explain what choices you have regarding the storage of your biological sample, participation in features like DNA Relatives, or participation in 23andMe’s groundbreaking Research program.
Those decisions are all up to the customer (you!). That’s because transparency and choice are the cornerstones of our privacy commitment to you.
<h6>Going Long or Going Deep</h6>
Some of us want to spend a long time and read through everything, while others just want the highlights. These new pages honor both of those choices.
Each section has a short and clear overview and, where relevant, links to full policies or documents that contain more detail. We’ve also broken up the topics in the left-hand navigation bar into subjects we believe customers care most about, such as the types of data we collect, who we share it with, or what it means to consent to Research. 
And each page is designed to make it visually easier to find things, including noting where to go to change your privacy settings or delete your account entirely if that’s what you want to do.
&nbsp;

	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="380" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Two-Factor-Privacy-Settings-e1654527633530-1024x380.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-29798" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Two-Factor-Privacy-Settings-e1654527633530-1024x380.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Two-Factor-Privacy-Settings-e1654527633530-300x111.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Two-Factor-Privacy-Settings-e1654527633530-768x285.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Two-Factor-Privacy-Settings-e1654527633530-880x327.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Two-Factor-Privacy-Settings-e1654527633530-1180x438.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Two-Factor-Privacy-Settings-e1654527633530.jpg 1556w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
	
<h6>Defining Certain Words</h6>
Simplifying language is important and we did a lot of that in creating these new pages, but some privacy-related terms are still not words we use every day.
That’s why we’ve added explanations about different terms with visuals.
So, when we mention “Personal Information,” we explain what it means in the context of privacy. Personal Information refers to data that personally identifies you. And we explain the difference between “individual-level data” versus “de-identified data” in writing and visuals. We also explain what  “aggregate information” means in the same way. 
<h6>Part of Our DNA</h6>
At 23andMe, privacy is in our DNA. It’s part of everything we do. These updates are meant to make it easier to understand and learn about how we protect and secure our customers&#8217; data every day.
Find out more <a href="https://www.23andme.com/privacy/">here</a>.

An image of a lock a computer, DNA and a mobile phone representing security protections.

Privacy Simplified

Starting this week, our premium annual membership service, 23andMe+ Premium, will be available widely to consumers in the UK and Canada who are interested in exploring a little deeper into what their DNA says about their health and finding ways to research their ancestry faster and more efficiently. 
Previously 23andMe+ Premium had been available in the UK and Canada only to existing Health + Ancestry Service customers on our V5 chip.  As in the US, consumers in the UK and Canada can now purchase a bundle that includes our Health + Ancestry Service with a 1-year prepaid 23andMe+ Premium membership.

	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="816" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-1024x816.png" alt="" class="wp-image-29583" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-1024x816.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-300x239.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-768x612.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-880x702.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864.png 1070w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
	
<h6>Premium Content</h6>
In addition to the more than 150 reports Health + Ancestry Service customers already receive, 23andMe+ Premium membership offers members exclusive access to additional premium reports and features delivered throughout the year. These additional benefits give members a way to go deeper into their health.
This premium content includes Pharmacogenetics reports,* which can help you learn about how your DNA may impact the way your body processes certain medications; genetic reports Powered by 23andMe Research, which can provide insight into  your likelihood of developing conditions like high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and migraines; as well as enhanced ancestry features including advanced filtering and access to more DNA relatives.

	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-29650" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-150x150.png 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-300x300.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-768x768.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-880x880.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-1180x1180.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-271x271.png 271w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-372x372.png 372w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-574x574.png 574w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-980x980.png 980w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1.png 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
	
<h6>Find Out More</h6>
Existing Health + Ancestry Service customers on our V5 chip can join 23andMe+ Premium membership for an annual price of $39 in Canada or £19 in the UK.
Not yet a customer?
Find out more about discounted 23andMe+ Premium membership Bundle pricing <a href="https://www.23andme.com/en-ca/compare-dna-tests/">here</a> or customers in Canada or <a href="https://www.23andme.com/en-gb/compare-dna-tests/">here</a> for those in the UK.
With more genetic reports, more health insights, and more features, we hope 23andMe+ Premium gives individuals the choice to help them discover even more about themselves to keep fueling their health journeys. Health is in our DNA.
<hr />
*The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 6 variants in 3 genes in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting information about the processing of certain therapeutics to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. It does not describe if a person will or will not respond to a particular therapeutic and does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Results should be confirmed in a clinical setting with independent genetic testing 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 a complete list of the 6 variants tested, visit <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/pgt_product_info_page_21jan2020.pdf">Pharmacogenetics Important Test Information</a>.

Going Deeper with 23andMe+ Premium 

Our commitment to transparency never ends, so we put together answers to several of the most commonly asked questions we receive about privacy at 23andMe.
You should read our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/about/privacy/">Privacy Statement</a> for details, but this is a good summary of some of the basics that you can review in just a few minutes. Feel free to <a href="http://privacy@23andme.com">contact us</a> with any of your privacy questions that we don’t cover below.
<h6>First up, since folks have asked: Now that 23andMe is a public company, does that change how my data is treated?</h6>
Too Long, Didn’t Read (TLDR): Becoming a publicly traded company does not change our privacy commitments to you.  We do not share your data with any investor!
I need more details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Our Privacy Statement details our commitments to you about your data (or, as we refer to it in our Privacy Statement, your Personal Information). 23andMe customer Personal Information remains subject to the promises made in our Privacy Statement, which specifically addresses how 23andMe will handle Personal Information in the event of a merger or acquisition.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We won’t make important changes to our Privacy Statement or other legal documents without alerting you. If we have a material change to make, you’ll know about it before those changes become effective so you have an opportunity to make a choice about your continued use of our Services. You’ll hear from us through a banner or in-app notice, or email message for those types of changes.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 2: Do you sell my data when I sign up for 23andMe?</h6>
TLDR: Nope!
I need more details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">With core values like transparency and choice, we are not in the business of selling your Personal Information for commercial purposes such as advertising or marketing.</li>
<li aria-level="1">When it comes to Research, we only use or share your data if we receive your explicit consent. Participation in our Research is opt-in and entirely voluntary. Learn more about our Research program <a href="https://www.23andme.com/research">here</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 3: Do I need to participate in Research?</h6>
TLDR: Participation in our Research is opt-in and entirely voluntary. Whether or not a customer participates in 23andMe Research, the consumer experience is the same.
I need more details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">The purpose of 23andMe Research is to make new discoveries about genetics and other factors behind diseases and traits &#8211; about people in general, not about you specifically.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Customers choose whether to participate in Research after they read a separate research consent. This means we do not bundle our Research consent into the Terms of Service or any other consent. Only customers that participate in our Research program are included in any analysis completed by our scientists for research studies or collaborations. Customers can change their Research consent preference at any time in their Account Settings. Don’t believe how simple it is? Give it a try!</li>
<li aria-level="1">If it’s so simple, there must be a catch, right? Nope! Choosing not to participate in Research does not impact your 23andMe experience. If you choose not to opt-in to participate in Research, or if you later opt-out of participating, you will still be able to access all of the same reports and product features as customers who are participating in our Research program.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 3 (continued): If I participate in Research, what types of data do you share?</h6>
TLDR: In our 23andMe Research program, we may share summaries of research results, which do not identify any particular individuals, with third-party research collaborators, such as academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies, but we won’t share information about you without your separate, explicit consent.
I need more details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">When we conduct Research in collaboration with a third party, we run a series of analyses on de-identified data in-house. Then, we send summary information and supporting data (i.e., information about specific genetic variants of significance) to collaborators. Data is summarized so individual-level data is not identified. We also include terms in our contracts with research collaborators to protect customer data, such as prohibiting any attempts to re-identify individuals.</li>
<li aria-level="1">An example of a summary of research results is &#8220;20% of men between the ages of 30 and 35 report having some form of cancer and XX genetic variants in common.”</li>
<li aria-level="1">We do not share any of your Registration Information (e.g., name, contact information, etc.), nor is your Registration Information available to 23andMe researchers running those analyses with any collaborator without your separate, explicit consent. We may recruit for studies in specific disease areas, such as <a href="https://www.23andme.com/lupus/">lupus</a>, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/depression-bipolar/">depression</a>. For those studies we ask participants to sign a separate consent authorizing the sharing of their Registration Information with the named third party collaborator.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Hey, what about the individual-level data sharing research consent? Glad you asked — we enable customers to share more detailed information about themselves with our collaborators which may further accelerate research if they choose. But this is an additional, separate and explicit choice that the Research participant makes. Unless you choose to participate in individual-level data sharing, your individual-level, de-identified Genetic Information and Self-Reported Information is not shared with collaborators. To be clear, even if you consent to individual-level data sharing, we still do not share any of your Registration Information with collaborators.</li>
<li aria-level="1">If you ever want a refresh or to learn more, links to our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/about/privacy/">Privacy Statement</a> and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/about/consent/">Research Consent Document</a> can be easily found in the website footer or in the Settings menu of our mobile app.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 4: How can Research participants learn about how their data is used?</h6>
TLDR: Take a look at the docs linked in that last bullet above, and you will find the details about our Research data use practices. In the spirit of transparency, we have announced many of our collaborations with pharmaceutical companies to make customers aware of how their data may be used for research. And, if you are a genetics geek like us, you might want to check out our publications on studies conducted with academic institutions. Or, better yet, if you have chosen to participate in our Research program, check out which published studies <a href="https://you.23andme.com/research/publications/">your data has been used in</a> right in your <a href="https://you.23andme.com/user/">Account Settings</a>!
I need more details:
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-29345 size-full" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Research-Contributions-list.png" alt="An image showing how 23andMe shows customers who have consented to participate in research the list of studies that their data was used in." width="512" height="442" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Research-Contributions-list.png 512w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Research-Contributions-list-300x259.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" />
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Before we launched our Research program over a decade ago, we worked with the Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) program, founded in 1990 as part of the Human Genome Project. The ELSI program was created to identify and address issues that genomics research could trigger with regard to impacting people, families, and society. We engaged with this community early on to incorporate strong ethical standards into our program.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Following our discussions with ELSI, we approached a third party institutional review board (“IRB”) and worked together to create an entirely new model of research based on an online experience. The job of the IRB is to review and monitor our Research to make sure that the people taking part in Research are fully informed about the risks and benefits of participating. Our model ensures we have third party oversight of our Research program, including clear, informed consent.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Further, our Research program is built on the ethical principles laid out in the <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/humansubjects/guidance/belmont.html">Belmont Report</a>, which describes guidelines for treating people right in research.</li>
<li aria-level="1">And we’ve taken it a step further by ensuring 23andMe’s Research actually adheres to a much stricter federal standard called the <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/humansubjects/commonrule/index.html">Common Rule</a>. Although the Common Rule technically only applies to federally-funded research, 23andMe voluntarily applies it to its Research program.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We walk-the-talk, too. Every one of our researchers undergoes training on protecting human subjects and responsible conduct of research. We have multiple teams dedicated to making sure all of our work follows applicable federal regulations related to human subjects research and the instructions of our IRB.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We work to bring visibility to our Research activities by providing Research participants with information about published studies they have contributed to. Check out the link above!</li>
<li aria-level="1">As already mentioned, you can change your mind about Research participation anytime, no questions asked. We can’t go back and remove your data from research or studies that have already been conducted, however, you can rest assured that your data will not be used in any new Research initiatives that start more than 30 days after your consent change (it may take up to 30 days to withdraw your data after you withdraw your consent).</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 5: Why do you collaborate with pharma companies?</h6>
TLDR: We continue to be committed to our mission to help people access, understand and benefit from the human genome. We believe that working with others, including pharma companies, can help accelerate our ability to more quickly develop treatments and cures. We work with academic institutions for the same reason, too!
I need more details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">We believe transparency is critical. Our Research consent describes our collaborations with various third parties, including pharmaceutical companies, so customers can make an informed choice.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Drug development is a long and expensive process. Through our collaborations with industry, nonprofits and research institutions, we hope to bring more successful treatments and cures to people faster. <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1008489">Studies</a> have shown treatments validated with genetic data are at least twice as likely to succeed. We want to change the drug development process and make it more efficient. Ultimately, we are committed to discovering and developing novel therapies to improve patient lives through the study of human genetics.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We also want people to feel like they are part of the process and we strive to treat them like partners rather than research subjects. We empower our customers to choose whether they want to play a role in collectively sharing their Personal Information to fuel scientific discoveries. Approximately eighty percent of 23andMe&#8217;s customers consent to participate in Research.</li>
<li aria-level="1">When we’ve entered into major collaborations with academic institutions or pharmaceutical companies in the past, we’ve informed our customers through email, blog posts or press outreach. For example, when we entered into a collaboration with GSK, we used all three approaches, including emailing customers, posting details of the project on our blog, and engaging with journalists on stories about the effort.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 6: Is my data secure?</h6>
TLDR: 23andMe is ISO 27001 certified, and we also hold other certifications to confirm our commitment to your security and privacy. But, security is a two-way street and we try to make it easy to be secure with 23andMe. In addition to the security measures we’ve undertaken, we provide customers with security tools to protect their accounts, such as two-step verification.
I need details:
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Our information security management system, which protects 23andMe data, has been <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/23andme-and-you/data-privacy-certifications/">certified under ISO 27001, ISO 27701, and ISO 27018</a>! An ISO certification is awarded after extensive audits by an independent third party. 23andMe is the first direct-to-consumer genetic testing company to be assessed against all three standards.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We have security measures in place for authentication, encryption (at rest and in transit), least privilege access, and authorization to our systems and proprietary technologies to support customer security. 23andMe access combines token-based, multi-factor authentication and strict least-privileged authorization controls.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We store your data in segregated databases. For example, your Registration Information (such as name and email) and Genetic Information are stored separately in secured, segmented databases, which reduces the risk of, and incentive to, commit a breach.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li aria-level="1">Your own security precautions are critical. For example, you should not share your password with others or use previously compromised passwords. If you do, we are not responsible for those actions.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 7: Have you ever detected any breach?</h6>
TLDR: No, we have not detected any breaches of Personal Information to date. I need details: See the TLDR — we don’t have additional details because it is just that simple.
<h6>Question 8: I’ve read that 23andMe is not regulated. Is that true?</h6>
TLDR: 23andMe, and our Health + Ancestry Service, is certainly regulated.
I need details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">For starters, our carrier status, genetic health risk and pharmacogenetic reports are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and have been reviewed and authorized or cleared by the FDA.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Far from being “unregulated”, 23andMe’s health reports have been reviewed and cleared by the FDA six times at the time of this blog publication. <a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfpmn/denovo.cfm?ID=DEN140044">23andMe’s six authorizations and clearances</a> for the reports below:
<ul>
<li aria-level="2">Carrier screening (de novo)</li>
<li aria-level="2">Genetic Health Risk reports (de novo)</li>
<li aria-level="2">BRCA 1/2 (Selected Variants) cancer predisposition (de novo)</li>
<li aria-level="2">MUTYH-Associated Polyposis cancer predisposition (510k)</li>
<li aria-level="2">Pharmacogenetic reports (de novo)</li>
<li aria-level="2">Pharmacogenetic reports (510k)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li aria-level="1">23andMe is the first direct-to-consumer genetic testing company to meet FDA requirements for its health reports. Our FDA authorized reports meet a greater than 99% accuracy standard when compared to Sanger sequencing. In addition, in connection with meeting FDA requirements, 23andMe <a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/reviews/den160026.pdf">demonstrated</a> that US consumers, regardless of education, age, gender or ethnicity can comprehend their 23andMe results, enabling them to be used safely without a doctor’s prescription.</li>
<li aria-level="1">As an FDA manufacturer, 23andMe also meets the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/digital-health-center-excellence/cybersecurity">Federal FDA Cybersecurity requirements</a>.</li>
<li aria-level="1">23andMe is inspected intermittently by the FDA. These inspections have found no deficiencies of its adherence to Federal quality standards.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 9: Does 23andMe share my data with China?</h6>
TLDR: Nope!
I need details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">23andMe’s contract laboratories are located in the United States. As part of our FDA submissions, we identify all of our key suppliers, none of which are based or located in China.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We do not do business in China or use any Chinese-based laboratories for our genetic testing service. We do not store data in China.</li>
</ul>
<h6>Question 10: Do you cooperate with law enforcement agencies looking to solve cold cases?</h6>
TLDR: No, 23andMe will exercise any available legal measures to object to a law enforcement request. As of the date of this publication, we have not released any individual user data to law enforcement. Take a look at our track record in our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/transparency-report/">Transparency Report.</a>
I need details:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Respect for customer privacy and transparency are core principles that guide 23andMe&#8217;s approach to responding to legal requests and maintaining customer trust. In 2015, 23andMe was the first consumer genetics company to publish a <a href="https://www.23andme.com/transparency-report/">Transparency Report</a>, which details the government requests for data we receive and how we have responded. This report is updated quarterly. As of the date of this publication, we have not released any individual user data to law enforcement and we want to keep it that way.</li>
<li aria-level="1">We closely scrutinize all law enforcement and regulatory requests and we will only comply with court orders, subpoenas, search warrants or other requests that we determine are legally valid and legally require our response after exhausting other options.</li>
<li aria-level="1">If, despite our resistance, we are required by law to comply with a valid court order, subpoena, or search warrant for a customer’s Genetic Information or Personal Information, we will try to notify you through the contact information you provided us before we disclose this information to law enforcement, unless doing so would violate the law or a court order. This provides you with a chance to move to quash the subpoena before we are required to answer it.</li>
</ul>

The 23andMe privacy team answers 10 common questions

Editor&#8217;s Note: This post was updated 1/5/2022 with video comments from some of our customers. 
We’ve made some important updates to give customers greater control over tailoring their product experience so it more accurately reflects their gender.
23andMe now allows customers to distinguish between their sex assigned at birth and their gender. This allows all customers, but especially our transgender and/or non-binary customers, to have their gender accurately reflected in relevant product features, during their interactions with other customers they choose to make connections with, and if they choose to participate in DNA Relatives.
Current customers can take advantage of these updates by adding their gender and preferred relationship labels in their <a href="https://you.23andme.com/user/">Account Settings</a>.
<h6>Why have we made these changes?<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-29099 size-full" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/account-gender-settin-page.png" alt="" width="236" height="512" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/account-gender-settin-page.png 236w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/account-gender-settin-page-138x300.png 138w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 236px) 100vw, 236px" /></h6>
As part of our commitment to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion">diversity, equity, and inclusion</a>, we are continually improving our product to reflect the diversity of all of our customers. This particular update was in response to customers who want their 23andMe profiles to more accurately reflect their gender. Not only that, but it&#8217;s the right thing to do. Our trans and non-binary customers have every right to see themselves reflected accurately in their 23andMe experience. And we want them to be able to participate in all of the features 23andMe offers safely and as their full, authentic selves.
<h6>What has changed?</h6>
After consulting our 23andMe LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group and a focus group of transgender customers, 23andMe has added the option for customers to provide their gender (including a non-binary option), in addition to their birth sex, during account registration and in their Account Settings. 
If a customer chooses to opt in to research, their gender may be included, but it is always de-identified from their genetic information. Additionally, if they indicate their gender is not the same as their birth sex, they will receive additional messaging about their health reports.
Customers can also now decide if they would like to have masculine, feminine, or gender-neutral relationship labels (e.g., brother, sister, or sibling) shown to their connections and DNA relatives (if they choose to opt into these features).
23andMe will continue to use a customer&#8217;s birth sex as a part of our laboratory quality control steps. This is because if someone’s self-reported sex doesn’t match what we’ve determined from our analysis of their DNA, we want to make sure there wasn’t an error in processing. We will also continue to use a customer&#8217;s birth sex to help us deliver or interpret results for certain health, wellness, and traits topics.
All of this information can be changed at any time in a user&#8217;s Account Settings.
We hope these changes will start to make our product more inclusive for our transgender and non-binary customers. As more research becomes available, for example on how hormone replacement therapy may affect risk estimates, we hope to keep improving our product so that it is more relevant for these customers. We also know we have more work to do (for example, for our intersex customers) to make sure everyone has the opportunity to access, understand, and benefit from the human genome.
More reading:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010964373-How-23andMe-uses-your-self-reported-Sex">How 23andMe Uses Your Self-Reported Sex</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/23andme-research/how-was-your-sex-determined-it-might-be-a-lot-more-complicated-than-you-think/">How was your sex determined? It might be a lot more complicated than you think</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/diversity-equity-inclusion">23andMe’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity &amp; Inclusion</a></li>
</ul>


<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="For Every Me" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0VbKLmkeVSc?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>

Making 23andMe More Inclusive for All Genders

Editor&#8217;s note: Today is &#8220;Data Privacy Day&#8221; so we thought it was a good time for a chat with Jacquie Haggarty, who among other roles, is 23andMe&#8217;s Privacy Officer.
 Jacquie joined 23andMe in 2015 and serves as the company’s Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, and Privacy Officer.&nbsp;
Prior to her work at 23andMe, Jacquie served as Senior Commercial Counsel at Genomic Health, where she focused on global legal and health care compliance. She spent the first six years of her legal career at Latham &amp; Watkins LLP, working directly with a diverse portfolio of public and private companies on securities, employment, and general commercial litigation.&nbsp;
Jacquie earned her J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, her Masters in Public Policy from Harvard Kennedy School, and her B.A. from U.C. Berkeley.
We sat down with Jacquie to hear her perspective on privacy and data protection within the consumer genetics industry.
&nbsp;

	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Haggarty-HS-9.2019-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-28744" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Haggarty-HS-9.2019-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Haggarty-HS-9.2019-200x300.jpg 200w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Haggarty-HS-9.2019-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Haggarty-HS-9.2019-587x880.jpg 587w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Haggarty-HS-9.2019-787x1180.jpg 787w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Haggarty-HS-9.2019-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure>
	
<h6></h6>
<h6>Q: How do you see your role as the Privacy Officer for 23andMe?&nbsp;</h6>
Privacy is complex in practice, but my focus is simple — to ensure the privacy of our customers’ data and support customers’ choice and access throughout their experience as they explore their DNA. That involves working across the company to educate on our privacy commitments to our customers, to support the design and build of systems, policies, and processes that maintain and strengthen data protection, and to foster the development of content that provides transparency. As Privacy Officer, it’s important to me that we are being clear with our customers about our data practices and then doing what we say.&nbsp;
So on top of making sure that we adhere to our own strict privacy policies, my job is also to ensure 23andMe adheres to what is an extremely complex set — and growing set — of local, federal, and international privacy laws, such as the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 or “CCPA” which was recently amended and expanded by the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020 (CPRA) ).&nbsp;
Beyond that, as 23andMe’s Privacy Officer, my job is to educate and inform people about what we do to protect customers’ data. I remind people that customer choice and consent is core to our service and the customer experience — what you learn from your DNA with 23andMe and with whom it may be shared is up to you. And I let people know that 23andMe does not share our customer data with public databases. We don’t share it with employers, or insurance companies, and we have never provided customer information to law enforcement.&nbsp;
I also am continuing our work with the <a href="https://fpf.org/about/">Future of Privacy Forum</a> through which we collaborated with other genetic testing companies to develop the consumer genetic testing <a href="https://fpf.org/2018/07/31/privacy-best-practices-for-consumer-genetic-testing-services/">industry privacy best practices</a>. 23andMe is also a member of the <a href="https://geneticdataprotection.com/">Coalition for Genetic Data Protection</a> (CGDP) where we work to advance legislation and policies that support the privacy and security of individual genetic data so that all genetic testing companies will be held to the same high standards for protecting customers’ data.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
[vc_video link=&#8221;https://youtu.be/EW9nDuerQws&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221;]
<h6></h6>
<h6>Q: What should customers know about how 23andMe approaches the privacy of customer data?</h6>
Customers should know that choice and transparency are the two cornerstones of our privacy approach to what we do.&nbsp;
Our customers have control — they are in the driver’s seat when it comes to their data. 23andMe is a mission-driven company founded to empower people by giving them access to their genetic information. Part of empowering our customers is giving them a choice, such as the choice about whether they want to view certain sensitive health reports and the choice about whether they want to share any of their information. We do not make assumptions about the way our customers want to share their information when we build features; customers choose with whom they share their information and whether they want to participate in various features, such as DNA Relatives which allows customers who opt-in to participate to find genetic relatives in our database who have also opted into <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry">DNA Relatives</a>.&nbsp;
Giving customers choice also means allowing them to change their minds. At 23andMe, customers can simply revoke their consent to participate in research or opt-out of participation in any feature at any time.
We listen to customers and work closely with our Customer Care team to make sure we address privacy topics and concerns most important to them. Meaningful choice requires transparency and we work hard to make information accessible, including presenting information in ways that are easy to understand.&nbsp;&nbsp;
We give our customers the choice to participate in our research, and we communicate with our customers about the published studies where their data was used, if they chose to participate. We want our research participants to know how they are helping fuel scientific discoveries in this new genomic age. I know as a customer myself who is participating in research, being able to see that I have contributed to published discoveries on topics as varied as knee pain, depression, and Parkinson’s disease is immensely gratifying.
<h6>Q: What are some of the most common misconceptions about 23andMe’s approach to privacy?</h6>
The three biggest misconceptions are around law enforcement, selling data, and how our research works.&nbsp;
First, 23andMe does not allow law enforcement to access its database, nor does it voluntarily cooperate with any law enforcement investigation. We require all law enforcement inquiries to follow a valid legal process, such as a court order or search warrant and are prepared to exhaust available legal remedies to protect customer privacy.&nbsp;
We are committed to transparency in our interaction with law enforcement, which led us in 2015 to be the first direct-to-consumer genetic testing company to publish a <a href="https://www.23andme.com/transparency-report/">Transparency Report</a>. This report details the number of requests we receive from law enforcement, and the number of times we have produced customer information to law enforcement without the customer’s prior, explicit consent &#8211; to date, we have never provided customer information to law enforcement.&nbsp;
Second, 23andMe does not sell customer’s personal information. We do not share customer data with any third party without the customer’s consent. And, we do not share customer information with insurance companies or employers.
Finally, our Research program is no exception — customers have to separately opt-in to participate in Research. Research is at the core of our mission as a company and it has been from the start. 23andMe’s pioneering research model engages people and invites them to participate online, from anywhere. Traditional research was often limited to physical, onsite recruitment with limited numbers of participants. About 80 percent of our customers choose to participate in our Research program, many tell us they want to accelerate new insights into disease.&nbsp;
Our Research program is overseen by an independent institutional review board or “IRB” — this is an ethics review board that ensures 23andMe is meeting ethical and legal obligations for research and consent. We are also transparent about our research collaborations, sharing our projects and their findings via email, blog posts, and press releases when published.&nbsp;
23andMe does sometimes collaborate on research with third parties. In doing so, we only analyze data from customers who have consented to participate in Research. The data we analyze is de-identified — that is, it does not include personally identifiable information such as name or email — and results that are shared are aggregated datasets so that individuals cannot reasonably be re-identified. Customers can also separately choose to participate in Research with individual-level data sharing. And of course, customers can decide to opt-out at any time from any research.&nbsp;
<h6>Q: Why do you like working at 23andMe?&nbsp;</h6>
I’m disruptive — I love challenging the status quo — and I love working for a company that is focused on disrupting healthcare by empowering customers with their own data. For over five years, I’ve been inspired by our customers’ life-changing stories, inspired by our research efforts based on a pioneering, crowdsourced model. I’m hopeful that our efforts will lead to novel therapeutics that address unmet medical needs. It’s incredibly meaningful to be able to work in an ecosystem built on empowering today’s customers, today’s research participants &#8211; each as individuals &#8211; to be able to be a part of a collective that can turn healthcare on its head and accelerate drug discovery to help tomorrow’s patients. It’s an opportunity that is as unique as your DNA.
&nbsp;

A Conversation About Privacy Protections at 23andMe

The virtual game offers a fun way to learn about traits you may not know are genetically influenced
If you&#8217;re like us, you love to play games with your family over the holidays. This year, however, the pandemic is forcing us to spend the holidays a little differently.
<h6><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-28632" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-17-at-4.06.06-PM-1024x330.png" alt="" width="1024" height="330" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-17-at-4.06.06-PM-1024x330.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-17-at-4.06.06-PM-300x97.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-17-at-4.06.06-PM-768x247.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-17-at-4.06.06-PM-880x283.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-17-at-4.06.06-PM-1180x380.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></h6>
<h6>The Survey Says</h6>
According to a <a href="https://mediacenter.23andme.com/press-releases/pandemic-changes-holiday-plans/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">new survey</a> commissioned by 23andMe, over half of individuals do not plan to attend holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving (51 percent) and Christmas / Hanukkah (53 percent) in person this year. With that in mind, we wanted to come up with a fun way for families to connect even if they can’t be together this holiday season.
As a genetics company, we are endlessly fascinated by DNA, and we‘re out to make genetics accessible and understandable for everyone.
<h6>Let the Fun Begin</h6>
We think there’s no better way to indulge in this fascination and start a few conversations, than a Genetics Bingo game. Sure, you probably know genetics help determine your eye color or hair type, but the game also focuses on traits you may be surprised may be genetically influenced — including the likelihood of the fear of public speaking, the chances of having a widow’s peak, or even whether you are likely to smell the aftereffects asparagus in your urine.
<h6>How to Play</h6>
You can play the game a few different ways:
<ol>
<li>Traditional Bingo:&nbsp;A designated person calls out phrases from the call sheet. If a player has the called phrase on their card, they mark the square if and only if the phrase is true for them. For example, Jim calls “Able to match musical pitch.” Sally has the phrase on her sheet, however, based on her recent singing in the shower she knows she cannot match musical pitches. She will NOT mark the square.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-26384 size-full" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/pitch-perfect.png" alt="" width="237" height="218"></li>
<li>Race to the Finish:&nbsp;Set a timer for 1 minute. Each player goes through their card marking squares filled with phrases that are true for them. Whoever has the most squares marked at the end wins.</li>
<li>Social Sharing:&nbsp;Mark all the squares on your card that you believe are true for you. Post to your social media account and tag three friends.</li>
</ol>
We hope this is an entertaining way for you and your family to spend some time over the holidays. And who knows, you might learn something you never knew about yourself and your family members. If you’re having fun, feel free to post and tag us on social at <a href="https://twitter.com/23andMe?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor">@23andme</a>!
Interested? A PDF of the game can be downloaded here.


<div data-wp-interactive="core/file" class="wp-block-file"><object data-wp-bind--hidden="!state.hasPdfPreview" hidden class="wp-block-file__embed" data="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/GeneticsBingo.Package.Final_.pdf" type="application/pdf" style="width:100%;height:600px" aria-label="Embed of Embed of GeneticsBingo.Package.Final.."></object><a id="wp-block-file--media-8c9de86c-ed29-4c23-bb7a-f17649471f6d" href="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/GeneticsBingo.Package.Final_.pdf">GeneticsBingo.Package.Final</a><a href="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/GeneticsBingo.Package.Final_.pdf" class="wp-block-file__button" download aria-describedby="wp-block-file--media-8c9de86c-ed29-4c23-bb7a-f17649471f6d">Download</a></div>



 For those on mobile devices, you can download a game cards below.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="612" height="792" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Genetics-Bingo-Cards.Final-01.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30736" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Genetics-Bingo-Cards.Final-01.jpg 612w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Genetics-Bingo-Cards.Final-01-232x300.jpg 232w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Genetics-Bingo-Cards.Final-02.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30733"/></figure>

23andMe Introduces Genetics Bingo Game to Help Families Connect Over the Holidays

23andMe recently received two additional privacy certifications from third-party auditors, while successfully re-certifying an existing security certification.
ISO certifications are awarded after extensive audits by independent third-parties. An international standard-setting organization develops the standards for each certification. In line with this commitment, 23andMe asked independent third-party auditors, Schellman &amp; Company,  to test and assess 23andMe against the standards for security and privacy under the ISO 27001, ISO 27701, and ISO 27018 certification. 23andMe is the first direct-to-consumer <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-29797 size-full" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide.jpg" alt="An image of a lock a computer, DNA and a mobile phone representing security protections." width="1562" height="800" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide.jpg 1562w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-300x154.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-768x393.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-1024x524.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-880x451.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Privacy-Feature-Image-Wide-1180x604.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1562px) 100vw, 1562px" />
<h6>Security Standards</h6>
23andMe’s first certification, which we first received in 2019, is <a href="https://www.schellman.com/certificate-directory">ISO 27001</a>. We started with that certification because it is one of the most widely recognized and internationally accepted information security standards. It identifies requirements and specifications for a comprehensive Information Security Management System (ISMS). This defines how an organization should manage and treat information more securely, including applicable security controls. 23andMe’s ISO 27001 certification was recently re-certified, an achievement built on all the great work that teams across the company did to support security and privacy since the beginning.
But we didn’t stop there. This year, 23andMe added two privacy-focused ISO certifications —ISO 27701 and ISO 27018 — to complement our ISO 27001 certification. What do these certifications mean?
<h6>Protecting Privacy Rights</h6>
The first, ISO 27701, is a new standard for protecting the privacy rights of individuals. It is an extension of the standards that are part of ISO 27001, and requires a Privacy Information Management System. Some of the key requirements of an ISO 27701 certification include privacy awareness training, privacy notices, supporting consumer privacy rights, and more.
The other certification, ISO 27018, establishes commonly accepted controls and guidelines to protect Personal Information in cloud computing environments. Some key requirements for ISO 27018 include encouraging accountability via breach notification procedures and having more stringent security requirements for cloud services providers.
Every year, a third-party auditor will validate that 23andMe can demonstrate on-going compliance with these ISO certificates. These certifications act as additional proof of our commitment to information security and privacy and providing the most trusted experience for our customers. Privacy and Security are in our DNA, and we have the certifications to prove it.
To learn more about our privacy and security practices, please take a look at our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/privacy/?nav2=true">Privacy Center</a>.

23andMe Receives Data Security and Privacy Certifications

When you use 23andMe to explore your DNA, you also entrust us with important and personal information about you.
Securing and protecting that data is paramount to 23andMe. We&#8217;re committed to keeping our customers&#8217; trust and providing a secure place where they can explore their DNA, knowing their privacy is protected. That starts with giving our customers a choice in whether their data is shared. We also want our customers to clearly understand how their data might be used if they choose to share it, and by whom.
This post, and the embedded video, is the first in a series of articles intended to give you an overview of how 23andMe protects and secures its customers’ data.  We encourage you to learn even more by reviewing our privacy and security policies.
At 23andMe, we like to say that privacy is in our DNA. It&#8217;s part of everything we do, and in creating policies around privacy and security, we are guided by three fundamental principles:
<ul>
<li>Meaningful &amp; Informed Choice: You decide how your information is used and with whom it is shared.</li>
<li> Setting the Standard for Strong Data Security: Genetic information deserves the highest level of security.</li>
<li>Privacy &amp; Transparency by Design: Protecting customer privacy is about more than just creating policies, it has to be baked into everything you do. Being clear and transparent about these policies is vital for customers to understand how their data is handled and protected.</li>
</ul>



<h6>Meaningful &amp; Informed Choice</h6>
We start with choice because it gives our customers control over whether they share or not, and with whom. Customers control their data and choose how it is used.
23andMe customers have the choice of whether or not they want to participate — and have their de-identified data used — in our innovative research into conditions like Parkinson&#8217;s disease and cancer. They choose whether they want to connect with genetic relatives through our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DNA Relatives</a> tool, or whether they want to see their health reports. They can choose to have the lab biobank their saliva sample or discard it after it is tested. A customer can always download their data, close their account, have their sample discarded, and data deleted at any time.





	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="512" height="286" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Consent-dashboard.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28430" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Consent-dashboard.png 512w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Consent-dashboard-300x168.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></figure>
	



All this starts at the beginning when a customer first registers. Customers get to decide what they want to share and what they want to see when they begin to explore their genetics using 23andMe. Customers can also change what they share at any time.
The impact of each choice has to be made clear. That&#8217;s why we say &#8220;meaningful choice&#8221;, because we want to ensure that customers understand what sharing means and that they are in control.
So, for example, 23andMe calls out the possibility of learning <a href="https://you.23andme.com/public/unexpected-relationships">unexpected information</a> when opting in to participate in DNA Relatives. 23andMe reminds customers before they elect to view their health reports, that while they might learn information they can use for their health, they might learn also something unexpected. Customers can download their data and share it with third parties, but they are <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/news/how-to-be-careful-with-your-raw-dna-data/">warned about the possible consequences of exercising that choice as well</a>. It&#8217;s their decision. Or if they change their minds, they can opt-out of sharing at any time. It&#8217;s up to them.
And it’s important to understand, there are certain types of sharing we just never do: We don&#8217;t share genetic and self-reported data with employers or insurance companies, or third-party marketers.
<h6>What about 23andMe&#8217;s research?</h6>
Participating in 23andMe&#8217;s research is optional, but a lot of customers — more than 80 percent — opt-in because of the potential this new kind of research has to uncover insights into disease and new treatments. Most of our customers want to participate in this kind of research. It has already led to the publication of <a href="https://www.23andme.com/publications/">more than 150 papers</a> and powers ongoing studies into depression, Parkinson&#8217;s disease, IBD, and fertility. When we make a new finding or publish a paper, we share that information with our customers via blog posts, email, and our Research overview dashboard where customers can see what publications they have contributed to if they’ve consented to research. Most of our customers participate because they want to power the kind of research that could lead to the discovery of new treatments or cures for conditions that affect them or someone they love.





	<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="604" src="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Research-image-1024x604.png" alt="" class="wp-image-28431" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Research-image-1024x604.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Research-image-300x177.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Research-image-768x453.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Research-image-880x519.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Research-image-1180x696.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Research-image.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
	



We&#8217;ll have a separate post that goes into more detail about our research program, but if you choose to participate in research here&#8217;s what happens with your data:
First, 23andMe de-identifies your genetic data. That means that any personally identifiable information — such as your name, email, and shipping address — are stripped from your genetic information. That means if you opt into research this de-identified data is pooled together with a bigger set of de-identified data from other research participants. Second, access to our research environment is restricted to a select group of authorized personnel. In addition, our scientists look at the data set as a whole, reducing any risk of participant re-identification. You don’t have to participate in research if you don’t want to. Regardless of your participation in 23andMe Research, 23andMe never uses your genetic or individual-level data or shares it without your consent. Those who do opt-in to participate can decide to opt-out at any time. All the research we do is also overseen by an external independent third-party ethical review board (an “IRB”).
See more about our research <a href="https://research.23andme.com/">here</a>, including the more than 150 papers we&#8217;ve published.
<h6>Setting the Standard for Strong Data Security</h6>
23andMe employs software, hardware, and physical security measures to protect our customers&#8217; data. Our customer&#8217;s personally identifiable information is stored separately from genetic data, and with the leading industry standards for security.




<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="23andMe&#039;s Privacy Practices" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EW9nDuerQws?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>



We&#8217;re proud of what we are doing to protect our customers&#8217; data.  That work is being recognized. For example, after an extensive security audit, our information security management system received certification under the recognized <a href="https://mediacenter.23andme.com/press-releases/23andme-achieves-iso-iec-270012013-certification/">ISO/IEC 27001:2013</a> standard. Some of the protections we have in place include:
<ul>
<li>the encryption of all sensitive information</li>
<li>limits on access to information based on job function and role</li>
<li>multi-factor authentication</li>
<li>strict least-privileged authorization policies</li>
</ul>
There are many layers to 23andMe robust security systems, but one of the most important is being ever-vigilant. That means having a top-notch security team and keeping employees up-to-date in their security training. It also means conducting ongoing third-party security audits and assessments to ensure we never let our guard down.
The intent is to create a secure place for our customers to explore their DNA because without security, you can&#8217;t have privacy.
<h6>Privacy &amp; Transparency by Design </h6>
Protecting customers&#8217; privacy is about more than just creating policies. It is baked into everything we do.
Since 23andMe&#8217;s founding, the privacy of our customers&#8217; data has been central to what we do. We strive to be transparent so that customers clearly understand how their data is handled. That meant very early on engaging with ethicists, and critics of direct-to-consumer testing. In creating an entirely new research model, 23andMe voluntarily approached a third-party institutional review board (IRB) to ensure our research participants provided informed consent. That requires that we present to customers both the benefits, and risks, of participating in research.
As a pioneer in direct-to-consumer genetic testing, 23andMe created what are now industry standards for handling customers&#8217; genetic information, and obtaining consent. All of the <a href="https://fpf.org/2018/07/31/privacy-best-practices-for-consumer-genetic-testing-services/">industry-wide best practices</a> for consumer genetic testing services published in July 2018 were already part of 23andMe&#8217;s bedrock principles. It&#8217;s why 23andMe was the first consumer genetic testing company to publish a &#8220;<a href="https://www.23andme.com/transparency-report/">transparency report.</a>&#8221; The report records all requests we&#8217;ve ever received from law enforcement for individual customer information.
23andMe has been a pioneer for privacy in genetic testing. We will continue to lead the way to keep the privacy and security of your genetic information paramount.

At 23andMe It Starts with Privacy

Every year on the third Saturday in October, the world celebrates International Archaeology Day, recognizing the important contributions archaeological research makes to society. This year, to celebrate, we&#8217;re spotlighting one of our favorite archaeological mysteries in the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a>SM feature—the skeletons of Roopkund Lake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-roopkund-lake">About Roopkund Lake</h2>



Roopkund Lake is a small glacial lake located over 5,000 meters (over 16,000 ft) above sea level in the Nanda Devi National Park, in the Indian Himalayas. In 1942, a forest ranger patrolling the park stumbled upon a chilling scene: hundreds of skeletal remains strewn around the lake. The site has captivated researchers and locals alike ever since.



The mystery of who these individuals were, how they died, and why they were in such a remote and inhospitable location has sparked decades of speculation. Some early researchers proposed that the remains belonged to an army that had lost its way in the mountains, while others suggested they might have been traders following a trans-Himalayan route that had since vanished. A few archaeologists posited that they were pilgrims traveling to nearby shrines, possibly part of the ancient Nanda Devi Raj Jat, a religious procession spanning ~290 kilometers (~180 miles) that is still undertaken in the region every 12 years.



The identification of women and children among the dead, however, made some of the proposed explanations less plausible–especially the claim that they may have been members of an army. Without weapons, trade goods, or written records, no single theory could fully account for the diversity and composition of the group. Local folklore offered its own interpretation: a king, his family, and attendants on a pilgrimage to honor the mountain goddess Nanda Devi had violated sacred protocol and were struck down by a deadly hailstorm in divine retribution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-exciting-23andme-connection">An exciting 23andMe connection</h2>



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31431628/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In 2019</a>, scientists sequenced the genomes of 38 individuals from Roopkund Lake in an effort to better understand the origins of the mysterious remains. But instead of resolving this longstanding mystery, their findings uncovered an even more complex puzzle. 



So what makes this story one of 23andMe’s favorite archaeological mysteries? That 2019 research study was actually led by our very own Dr. Éadaoin Harney—a Scientist on the Population Genetics R&amp;D Team and 23andMe’s “resident ancient DNA expert.” She worked on this study during her PhD at Harvard University where she was a member of Prof. David Reich’s ancient DNA laboratories–one of the largest ancient DNA research laboratories in the world.



“When I first started working with the Roopkund ancient DNA data, I thought that genetics would be a simple and straightforward way to finally help solve the mystery of who they were,” said Dr. Harney. But she was in for a big surprise! “The first hint that this wasn’t going to be as simple as I initially thought was when we discovered how ancestrally diverse the Roopkund individuals were. Then we learned that they didn’t all die at the same time, as had previously been believed. Instead radiocarbon dates generated from the bones spanned over 1,000 years.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-dna-adds-to-the-mystery">How DNA adds to the mystery</h2>



The 2019 genetic analysis showed that the individuals fell into three distinct genetic groups, with ancestries from across the globe.



The largest group (which we’ll refer to as Roopkund A) consisted of 23 individuals who died between the 7th and 10th centuries CE, likely during multiple distinct events. Genetically, all appeared South Asian, but with remarkably diverse ancestries–each individual appeared most closely related to different present-day South Asian populations. This finding suggests that they may have traveled to the lake from multiple locations across the subcontinent. Although the exact purpose of their journey to Roopkund Lake remains uncertain, some researchers speculate that they may have been early participants in the Nanda Devi Raj Jat, a traditional pilgrimage that still passes by the lake every 12 years.



The other two groups were even more surprising. One group (Roopkund B) consisted of 14 individuals whose DNA connected them to present-day populations from the eastern Mediterranean—particularly populations in Greece and neighboring regions. The third group (Roopkund C) was represented by a single individual with genetic ancestry most similar to Southeast Asian populations. Radiocarbon dating revealed that these individuals likely died in a single event some time between the 17th and 20th centuries. Why people with ancestry from such distant regions were traveling together in one of the most remote parts of the Himalayas remains a mystery to this day.



Dr. Harney joined 23andMe in 2020 with the goal of creating an approach to identify direct genetic connections between historical and living people. She and her colleagues on the Population Genetics R&amp;D Team succeeded! This technology was first described in their <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10958645/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 study of African Americans from Catoctin Furnace</a>, which was published in (and featured on the cover of) Science. She then helped spearhead the creation of the 23andMe Historical Matches feature, enabling customers to learn how they connect to different historical and ancient individuals.



Over the last five years, one of her secret ambitions was to use this technology to try and finally solve the mystery of the Roopkund individuals&#8217; identities. Could identifying any close genetic relatives of the Roopkund individuals in the 23andMe genetic database help us learn about their identities and answer what brought them to Roopkund?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-did-we-solve-the-mystery">Did we solve the mystery?</h2>



We compared the Roopkund individuals to over 11 million research consenting participants in the 23andMe genetic database. While we were hoping this analysis would reveal a number of close genetic relatives, unfortunately, the mystery of Roopkund Lake lives on.



We found that only about 1,240 research participants—less than 0.011% of the individuals included in our analysis—share any sort of genetic connection to the Roopkund individuals. And of those participants, we can count the number of individuals who share over 30 cM of DNA (what we label a “significant genetic connection” in the Historical Matches feature) on just one hand. In fact, we found so few &#8220;significant relatives” that the chances any of those connections trace back to a recent shared common ancestor on a genealogical family tree are extremely slim.



(Although if you happen to be one of those lucky individuals who sees a “significant connection” listed to one of the Roopkund individuals in your 23andMe report, please <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/requests/new" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reach out to us</a>, as we’d love to learn more!)



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-else-did-we-discover">What else did we discover?</h2>



So, we didn’t solve the mystery of who the Roopkund individuals were, but we did gather fascinating data about their connections to the present day.



First, here is a breakdown of the 17 Roopkund individuals whose DNA was well preserved enough to include in our analyses:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>8 from Roopkund A (South Asian ancestry)</li>



<li>8 from Roopkund B (Eastern Mediterranean ancestry)</li>



<li>1 from Roopkund C (Southeast Asian ancestry)</li>
</ul>



As we mentioned, about 1,240 23andMe research participants shared a genetic connection to the Roopkund individuals. The figure below shows the number of matches each Roopkund group received and highlights the amount of DNA shared. As you can see, the vast majority of the connections we discovered involve less than 20 cM of DNA, meaning that they likely trace back to a shared common ancestor who lived long before any of the Roopkund individuals.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="411" height="252" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34359" style="width:625px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png 411w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3-300x184.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 411px) 100vw, 411px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This figure shows the distribution of total shared DNA that we detected between 23andMe research participants and each of the Roopkund groups (A, B and C). It shows that the vast majority of the connections we identified are to individuals in the Roopkund B group, and the DNA segments they share are shorter than 15 cM. In order to protect participant privacy, all counts less than or equal to 5 are masked and appear equal to 5. </figcaption></figure>



Of those who share a genetic connection, the majority (~1,160) shared a connection to one or more individuals in the Roopkund B group—the one with Eastern Mediterranean-related ancestry. This didn&#8217;t surprise us, since the majority of 23andMe research participants have European ancestry, making them more likely to be related to the Roopkund B individuals.



In addition to occurring more frequently, the Roopkund B individuals also shared some of the strongest genetic connections to 23andMe research participants, as shown in the figure below which depicts the maximum amount of DNA that each Roopkund individual shared with a research participant.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="643" height="448" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34360" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png 643w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4-300x209.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 643px) 100vw, 643px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This figure shows the maximum amount of shared DNA that we detected between 23andMe research participants and each of the Roopkund individuals. The individuals are arranged along the x-axis by when they lived, as measured by radiocarbon dating. We masked this result for Roopkund individuals who shared DNA with 5 or fewer 23andMe research participants in order to protect participant privacy, and reported maximum DNA sharing as equal to 0.</figcaption></figure>



We decided to see what Genetic Groups the Roopkund individuals could be connected to, using the same approach that we use to connect customers to these Genetic Groups.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



Many of the Roopkund B individuals received matches to Genetic Groups in south eastern Europe, with the strongest connections to groups in Greece and Crete–exactly mirroring the findings of the original study!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="849" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-1024x849.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34352" style="width:575px" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-1024x849.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-300x249.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-768x636.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-880x729.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-1180x978.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This map shows the location of the different Genetic Groups that we compared the Roopkund B individuals to. Groups shown in darker colors shared the strongest genetic matches to one or more of the Roopkund B individuals.</figcaption></figure>



Since the Roopkund A and Roopkund C individuals shared far fewer genetic connections to 23andMe research participants, it was hard to localize their ancestry in the same way. But we were able to connect the Roopkund C individual to a single Genetic Group, located in China. This finding is generally consistent with the original study, where this individual exhibited connections to populations in East and Southeast Asia.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="874" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-1024x874.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34353" style="width:592px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-1024x874.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-300x256.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-768x655.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-880x751.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-1180x1007.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This map shows the location of the different Genetic Groups that we compared the Roopkund C individual to. Groups shown in darker colors shared the strongest genetic matches to the Roopkund C individual.</figcaption></figure>



We couldn’t connect the Roopkund A individuals to any of the Genetic Groups that we have identified. That doesn’t mean they aren’t genetically related to any of these groups. Instead it is likely just because the original research team was only able to sequence a small amount of DNA from these individuals, making it harder to connect them to research participants in the 23andMe database.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next">What’s Next?</h2>



So for now, all we can say is that the mystery of Roopkund Lake continues. But we promise this archaeological site is one that is close to our hearts. If we have any updates in the future, we’ll be sure to let you know.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn more</h2>



Want to see if you share a genetic connection with any of the individuals who died at Roopkund Lake—or hundreds of other historical people? The Historical Matches feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.



And if you are interested in finding ways to celebrate International Archaeology Day, check out organizations like the Archaeological Institute of America, which has an exciting <a href="https://www.archaeological.org/events/category/international-archaeology-day/list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calendar of Archaeology-related events</a>.

New Historical Matches Could Connect You to the Mysterious Skeletons of Roopkund Lake

This update is currently available to all eligible customers on the latest, V5, genotyping chip. 



The 23andMe Ancestry Team has been working hard on <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-major-update-to-ancestry-composition-is-coming-soon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a major update to the Ancestry Composition report</a>, and results are now available! Our goal is to provide the most accurate and meaningful genetic ancestry results in the industry. We ground our models in rigorous science, guided by established population genetics research, to ensure your results are consistent, reliable, and can help guide your personal journey of discovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-changes-you-ll-see">What changes you&#8217;ll see</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>New granularity in your ancestry percentages: 33 new populations in Europe and 6 in the Americas to explore. Plus we&#8217;ve updated our algorithm to eliminate “Broadly” and “Unassigned” categories in the default results view.&nbsp;</li>



<li>More accurate results: A new state-of-the-art DNA phasing pipeline reduces errors and gives a more accurate estimate of your percentages, even if your ancestry isn&#8217;t from Europe or the Americas.&nbsp;</li>



<li>New features: A new “Version History” section lets you compare your new results to your previous result, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members can also access all previous versions of their results at different confidence thresholds.</li>
</ul>



This update powers your Ancestry Composition, Ancestry Timeline, Parental Inheritance, DNA Painting, and more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-focus-for-this-update">Our focus for this update</h2>



For this update we focused on improving the entire Ancestry Composition pipeline integrating the latest research. Throughout the rounds of development we look at two major metrics: precision and recall. Precision lets us know how often we correctly predict that a piece of DNA is from a specific population. Recall tells us how much DNA from a specific population we can correctly identify. Working to maximize both precision and recall is critical to making Ancestry Composition and other ancestry features as accurate as possible.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="366" height="368" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34276" style="width:170px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel.png 366w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel-298x300.png 298w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel-150x150.png 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel-271x271.png 271w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 366px) 100vw, 366px" /></figure>



The final models in this update had good precision and recall across the new populations, ensuring the accuracy of the ancestry breakdown predictions while also expanding the specificity and granularity of the populations. One example of the improvements gained by this update is the reduced amount of North Asian ancestry predicted for some Indigenous North American customers. You can learn more about the development process and see precision and recall metrics for each population in the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-composition-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Composition Guide</a>.



While this update focused on increasing granularity in Europe and the Americas, customers from other parts of the world will still benefit thanks to the improvements to the science and the removal of broadly and unassigned ancestry.



<a href="https://you.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sign in</a> and check out your new results.&nbsp;



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-questions-you-might-be-wondering-about">Some questions you might be wondering about</h2>



Why are certain populations combined?



To define the 78 Ancestry Composition populations, we analyzed the reference datasets, chose candidate populations that appeared to cluster together, and then evaluated whether we can distinguish those groups in practice. Some populations tend to cluster on their own, but most country-level populations overlap to some degree. In these cases, we experiment with different groupings of country-level populations to find combinations that we can distinguish with high confidence. Check out the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-composition-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Composition Guide</a> to learn more.



Does this mean that the people in those groups are the same? No. Each group has its own history, culture, and often different languages. These groupings are a reflection of our current genetic understanding and scientific methods, not a statement about cultural identity.



Does this mean DNA that is assigned to these populations is from all groups? Not necessarily. For example, DNA assigned to the Belarusian, Polish &amp; Ukrainian group might mean your ancestors were from one, two, or all three of those country-level populations. Sometimes other information from your DNA, such as your Genetic Groups, might help you identify more specific locations your ancestors may have come from.&nbsp;



Why are some reference panels smaller than before?



A reference panel, or a reference population or reference dataset, is a collection of DNA samples from people with some common connection. We compare your DNA to these reference panels to determine which ancestry most closely corresponds to your DNA. We often use 23andMe research participants who tell us they have four grandparents all born in the same country for reference panels.



However, sometimes when we look at the ancestry prediction for individuals in a reference panel for a specific population a few individuals don&#8217;t end up being predicted to have a reasonably large percentage of their DNA from that population. These individuals are considered outliers. As part of this update we systematically reviewed our reference panels around the world to remove these outliers. But don&#8217;t worry; even though some reference panels might be smaller, we still check that the models perform as well as (or better than) before for people with ancestry from these regions.&nbsp;



Why is there no Indigenous Caribbean population?



To define a new ancestry population we need reference panels made up of individuals who have deep genetic roots from one place. However, many individuals from the Caribbean are highly admixed (“admixture” refers to places where there was mixing of previously separate populations). This makes it incredibly difficult to identify a sufficient number of individuals with primarily indigenous DNA from the Caribbean. The reference panels for the new Indigenous American populations are almost entirely unadmixed, which is why we are able to provide ancestry percentages for these populations.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="502" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-1024x502.png" alt="" class="wp-image-27359" style="width:371px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-1024x502.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-300x147.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-768x376.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-880x431.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-1180x578.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



So where does Indigenous Caribbean ancestry show up? We tend to see that Indigenous American ancestry in individuals from the Caribbean is spread among several of the new Indigenous American populations (especially North American, Southern Mesoamerican, Central Andean &amp; Amazonian, and Northern Andean).



Does this mean Indigenous Caribbean ancestors came from those places? Not necessarily. It simply means that of the options available today, those populations are the closest genetic match.&nbsp;



Why weren&#8217;t other parts of the world updated?



While we would love to be able to make major updates around the world more frequently, each new population requires new reference data and major updates in the prediction models. Throughout the years we have increased the number of populations across the rest of the world; however, we have not updated the populations in Europe since 2012. This update was an important opportunity to provide more detail in Europe and the Americas.



We will continue to work towards providing more specificity and granularity around the world in your ancestry percentages as well as Genetic Groups (keep an eye out over the next few months for new Genetic Groups in Africa), <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a>SM, and other features.



Why did the colors change?



Adding 39 new colors to the color palette was quite the task for the 23andMe Design Team. The team took this opportunity to think about the colors holistically, coming up with a new system that provides a gradient across the world, allowing for nearby populations that are closer together geographically to be represented by more similar colors, while at the same time providing a system that can work for more populations in the future.



Who will get this update?



All customers genotyped on the current (V5) chip and with access to the ancestry service will see this update. A genotyping chip (or array) tests for a fixed set of genetic variants (SNPs) across the genome. Different chip versions (V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, etc.) test for different sets of SNPs. More recent chips often include better coverage for certain populations, recently discovered variants, or better genetic markers that help improve ancestry?composition algorithms or detect health?associated variants.



Ancestry Composition is trained on specific genotyping chip versions, and these latest models were only trained on the latest chip version. The models are incompatible with data from older genotyping chips, as older chips don’t include most of the genetic markers used by these new ancestry models. More recent chip versions are also designed with better coverage for diverse populations. If you&#8217;re on an older chip version (or not sure which chip version you have) learn about chip upgrades <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360025014494-How-Do-I-Upgrade-My-Genotyping-Chip" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



What happens if my family deleted data and I want to connect with them?



When you connect with a biological parent through Your Connections, we use the additional information we learn from your parents&#8217; DNA to improve the resolution of your Ancestry Composition results. You will also be able to see the proportions of each ancestry that you inherited from each parent in the Parental Inheritance section in your Ancestry Composition report. If a family member has deleted their account they will need to purchase a new kit and create a new account before you can connect with them.

It’s Finally Here: A New Version of Ancestry Composition

Each year from September 15–October 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of people from Spain, Latin America, and other Spanish-speaking communities. To mark the occasion, we’re highlighting a remarkable ancient DNA study from Las Gobas, a medieval site in northern Spain that sheds new light on life in early Iberia, which comprises present-day Spain and Portugal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-the-scene-iberia-in-the-early-medieval-period">Setting the Scene: Iberia in the Early Medieval Period</h2>



From the 5th to 8th centuries CE, Iberia was ruled by the Visigoths, a Germanic people who established power after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. In 711 CE, their kingdom collapsed after the Umayyads—an Islamic dynasty with roots in Arabia and North Africa—invaded and established the Emirate (and later the Caliphate) of Córdoba. This new state controlled much of Iberia, along with the Balearic Islands and parts of North Africa.



In the mountainous north, however, many communities retained their independence and Christian traditions, even as the rest of the Iberian peninsula underwent profound cultural and political change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-at-las-gobas">Life at Las Gobas</h2>



Las Gobas, located in today’s province of Burgos in northern Spain, consists of 13 rock-cut caves and several freestanding structures. Beginning in the 7th century, it served as a mixed-use settlement with homes, a Christian church, and a cemetery. By the late 9th century, the residential area was abandoned, but the site continued to be used as a burial ground and place of worship until the 11th century.



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39196943/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In 2024</a>, researchers analyzed DNA from 33 individuals buried at Las Gobas. They discovered that the community’s ancestry remained surprisingly stable over the centuries, with little evidence of genetic influence from the Islamic expansion that reshaped much of Iberia.



Why was Las Gobas different? Their DNA offered a clue. Many individuals carried stretches of identical DNA inherited from both parents—patterns that often occur in small, insular populations with limited outside contact. This genetic isolation likely helped shield the community from broader population shifts happening elsewhere.



The study also revealed striking details about life at Las Gobas:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Inbreeding: The DNA of several individuals showed evidence that their parents were close relatives; likely first cousins or closer.</li>



<li>Disease: DNA evidence showed infections from multiple pathogens, including what may be one of the earliest documented cases of smallpox in northern Iberia.</li>



<li>Violence: Skeletal remains showed signs of traumatic injuries, likely from swords—evidence of interpersonal conflict or warfare.</li>
</ul>



Taken together, the findings paint a vivid—and sometimes harsh—picture of life more than a thousand years ago in a small, tightly knit community in northern Spain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn more</h2>



Want to see if you share a genetic connection with these newly added individuals from Las Gobas—or hundreds of other historical people? The <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a>SM feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.

New Historical Matches Could Connect You to the Medieval Iberian Site of Las Gobas

<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/ancestry-composition-version-7-is-here" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This update</a> is currently available to all eligible customers on the latest, V5, genotyping chip.



23andMe’s flagship Ancestry Composition algorithm was last updated in 2022, when three new reference populations were added in China. Since then, the 23andMe Ancestry Team has focused on improving the specificity of reference populations and updating the methods underlying this state-of-the art algorithm. The result? More specificity and accuracy in the ancestry breakdowns we provide.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="508" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-1024x508.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34246" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-1024x508.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-300x149.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-768x381.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-880x437.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-1180x585.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The project, Version 7 of Ancestry Composition, is the most significant update to the feature ever.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-algorithm-expanded-populations-better-results">Improved algorithm, expanded populations, better results</h2>



Over the last few months, we’ve been hard at work finalizing the details on this major update to your favorite report: Ancestry Composition.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="499" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-1024x499.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34237" style="width:537px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-1024x499.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-300x146.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-768x374.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-880x429.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-1180x575.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Here’s what we&#8217;ve been working on:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Better breakdowns in Europe and the Americas: Thanks mainly to consented 23andMe research participants we&#8217;ve been able to expand the number of unique populations in our reference datasets. Reference datasets are collections of DNA samples from people with deep roots in a specific part of the world. It&#8217;s what is needed to compare each piece of your DNA to in order to determine where in the world that DNA most likely came from. What this means is we’re launching with nearly four times the resolution in Europe and six new populations in the Americas. We also took the opportunity to refine reference datasets from around the world, making them more specific to each global population.</li>



<li>Enhanced Accuracy: The accuracy of these new ancestry results are greatly improved by using our <a href="https://www.cell.com/hgg-advances/fulltext/S2666-2477(25)00082-X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently published</a>, state-of-the-art DNA phasing method. You could think of phasing as sorting which DNA you inherited from each parent. Reducing errors in phasing means a more accurate estimate of your ancestry percentages and better <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/212860507-Chromosome-Painting-23andMe-Ancestry-Results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA Painting</a>.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Elimination of Broadly and Unassigned DNA: We are updating our algorithm to report the most likely assignment for a given stretch of DNA rather than at a fixed confidence threshold. This will have the benefit of eliminating &#8220;Broadly&#8221; and &#8220;Unassigned&#8221; categories in the default results view. You will still be able to view your results at different confidence thresholds in the Version History section.</li>



<li>Better Error Detection: We&#8217;ve upgraded our smoother to better filter out erroneous trace ancestries between two larger blocks of ancestry. See our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-composition-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Composition Guide</a> for more information about the current smoother.</li>



<li>Version History: Compare your new results to your old ones in a new &#8220;Version History&#8221; section. <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members will also be able to access previous versions at different confidence settings.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-the-new-reference-populations-nbsp">What are the new reference populations?&nbsp;</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>33 new ancestry populations in Europe are coming: Albanian &amp; Macedonian; Andalusian, Asturian &amp; Castilian; Aragonese &amp; Catalan; Austrian &amp; Southern German; Basque; Belarusian, Polish &amp; Ukrainian; Belgian, Rhinelander &amp; Southern Dutch; Bosnian, Croatian, Montenegrin &amp; Serbian; Bulgarian, Moldovan &amp; Romanian; Canary Islander; Czech, Hungarian, Slovak &amp; Southern Polish; Danish; Dutch &amp; Northern German; English; Estonian; Finnish; French; Greek; Icelandic; Irish; Kosovar &amp; Northern Albanian; Latvian; Lithuanian; Maltese; Northern Italian; Norwegian; Portuguese &amp; Galician; Russian; Sardinian; Scottish; Slovenian; Southern Italian; Swedish; Swiss, Southwestern German &amp; Western Austrian; Welsh</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="840" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-1024x840.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34262" style="width:523px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-1024x840.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-300x246.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-768x630.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-880x722.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map.png 1101w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Indigenous American will be broken into 6 new ancestry populations: Arctic North American, Central Andean &amp; Amazonian, North American, Northern Andean, Southern Mesoamerican, and Western North American</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="562" height="393" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34236" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-2.png 562w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-2-300x210.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 562px) 100vw, 562px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-your-dna-story-now-clearer-across-time-place-and-family">Your DNA story, now clearer across time, place, and family</h2>



These updates, drawn from sharper science and richer data, power everything you use to explore your ancestry, including Ancestry Timeline, Parental Inheritance, DNA Painting, and more. This builds on the world’s most comprehensive ancestry breakdown on the market with over 4,000 regions, helping you experience the life-changing power of DNA by tracing where your ancestors lived and what they passed on to you.



Ancestry Composition, Version 7. More precision. More connection. More you.



This is a massive project for us and a chance to get back to our roots by digging deeper into yours. We’re thrilled you’re as excited as we are.



The 23andMe Ancestry Team

A Major Update to Ancestry Composition

<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fda-now-recommends-genetic-testing-before-prescribing-specific-chemotherapy-medications">FDA Now Recommends Genetic Testing Before Prescribing Specific Chemotherapy Medications</h5>



For years, patient advocates have been calling for stronger safeguards against preventable toxicity from chemotherapy. Last week, the FDA took a major step forward, updating the label for a drug called <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699003.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capecitabine</a> to explicitly recommend testing for variants in the DPYD gene before starting treatment. This is more than just a label change—it&#8217;s a long-awaited acknowledgment that genetics matter when it comes to patient safety.



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



The <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/dpyd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DPYD gene</a> provides instructions for making an enzyme called DPD (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase), which helps the body break down certain chemotherapy drugs like capecitabine and <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682708.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5-fluorouracil</a>. These medications are commonly used to treat breast, colorectal, and other cancers. People with certain changes in this gene may not process these drugs properly, causing the drugs to build up in the body and, in some cases, leading to severe or even life-threatening <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/dihydropyrimidine-dehydrogenase-deficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reactions</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="508" height="531" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34304" style="width:126px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle.png 508w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle-287x300.png 287w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 508px) 100vw, 508px" /></figure>



These reactions can include painful mouth sores, severe diarrhea, low white blood cell counts, and nerve problems. <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/dihydropyrimidine-dehydrogenase-deficiency/#frequency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Up to 8%</a> of people have a variant in the DPYD gene that affects how well they process these medications. Sadly, some patients with DPYD variants have died after receiving these drugs. Such experiences have fueled years of advocacy calling for genetic testing before treatment, not after. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-change-in-the-recommendations">A change in the recommendations</h2>



Until now, the FDA advised doctors they could &#8220;consider testing&#8221; patients before giving capecitabine or similar drugs. The <a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/020896s052lbl.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new label</a> goes much further, adding a warning that says, &#8220;serious adverse reactions or death may occur in patients with complete DPD deficiency&#8221; and telling doctors to test for DPYD variants before prescribing the medication. (Experts predict a similar change to the 5-fluorouracil drug label soon.) It&#8217;s a major win for patient safety and for the <a href="https://test4dpd.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advocacy groups</a> who have pushed tirelessly for this change. Organizations that have long advocated for universal DPYD testing hope this update will encourage hospitals and cancer centers across the U.S. to make pretreatment genetic testing standard care.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="790" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-790x1024.png" alt="23andMe mobile pharmacogenomics" class="wp-image-28527" style="width:256px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-790x1024.png 790w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-231x300.png 231w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-768x996.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-679x880.png 679w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home-910x1180.png 910w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PGt-Home.png 1583w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 790px) 100vw, 790px" /></figure>



We share the belief that genetic insights can empower individuals and help improve outcomes. The 23andMe® <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/dpyd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DPYD Drug Metabolism Pharmacogenetics report</a>*, available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members, provides information about two variants associated with reduced DPD enzyme activity. While this report isn&#8217;t a substitute for clinical testing, it can help people learn whether they carry certain DPYD variants and start a conversation with their healthcare provider. 



The FDA&#8217;s new label is an important step toward safer, more personalized cancer treatment and a long-awaited victory for the patients and advocates who made their voices heard.



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



 * 23andMe PGS Pharmacogenetics reports: The 23andMe test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 3 variants in the CYP2C19 gene, 2 variants in the DPYD gene and 1 variant in the SLCO1B1 gene in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting information about the processing of certain therapeutics to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. It does not describe if a person will or will not respond to a particular therapeutic. Our CYP2C19 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with metabolism of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of citalopram and clopidogrel therapy. Our SLCO1B1 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with the processing of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of simvastatin therapy. Our DPYD Pharmacogenetics report does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Results for DPYD and certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action. Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding Pharmacogenetic reports, visit <a href="http://23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/</a>

A Big Step Forward for Patient Safety

Late in the first quarter in only his third game this season, one professional football team’s star edge-rusher limped off the field, gesturing to his trainers with his thumb down. Apparently, he already knew what he&#8217;d find out a short time later with an MRI: he&#8217;d again torn his ACL, the anterior cruciate ligament.



While a hard tackle or awkward fall can tear an ACL, some people may be more prone to an ACL tear than others, and their genetics may explain why.



A new 23andMe polygenic risk score (PRS) report sheds light on that genetic connection. The report examines how a person&#8217;s genetics may impact their likelihood of experiencing an ACL tear, an injury particularly common among those involved in high-impact sports.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-genetics-may-influence-acl-tear-risk">How Genetics May Influence ACL Tear Risk</h2>



First, it&#8217;s important to note that your genetics is only one part of the story – many other factors can influence the risk of an ACL tear. 



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="306" height="126" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ACL-tear-PRS-Hero.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34316" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ACL-tear-PRS-Hero.png 306w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ACL-tear-PRS-Hero-300x124.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 306px) 100vw, 306px" /></figure>



Tears typically occur when the knee twists or extends beyond its normal range, often seen in sports that involve jumping and sudden stops, pivots, or changes in direction. That might be in sports such as football, soccer, basketball, or downhill skiing. The ACL is the most commonly injured ligament in the knee.&nbsp;&nbsp;



We also know that ACL tears are more common in female athletes. However, because more males participate in high-risk sports, the total number of ACL tears may actually be higher in males. They are also more likely in people with a family history of an ACL injury or a personal history of an ACL tear. Indeed, genetics plays an important role, with one 2020 sports medicine journal study estimating the <a href="https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/55/7/385" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic contribution to an ACL tear at approximately 69 percent</a>. 



While the exact biological mechanism involved is not yet known, the genetic associations do offer some hints. Among the many genetic variants associated with ACL tears are variants in or near genes involved in the formation of collagen, a building block for ligaments. Scientists have discovered other variants linked to tears, but most of those associations are inconclusive, and more research is needed.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-23andme-s-new-acl-tear-prs-report">23andMe&#8217;s New ACL Tear PRS Report</h2>



Knowing how genetics influences the risk for an ACL tear can empower athletes, who are at the highest risk, train smarter and work toward preventing them.&nbsp;



To create the new ACL Tear PRS Report* 23andMe scientists analyzed data from people who consented to participate in research to identify thousands of variants associated with ACL tears. The 23andMe scientists then created a genetic model that incorporated those variants to calculate the genetic likelihood of an ACL tear.



This PRS report, like other 23andMe PRS reports, is research-based and not validated for medical diagnostic use; it may have limitations for people with mixed or less-studied ancestries and does not account for every possible factor influencing ACL health. In addition, polygenic risk scores integrate many common variants, but they do not account for rare genetic variants or lifestyle factors that can heavily impact risk.&nbsp;



For individuals with an elevated genetic or family risk, creating a personalized prevention plan and scheduling regular check-ins with sports medicine professionals are great ways to keep knees healthy.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-the-risk-of-acl-tears">Mitigating the Risk of ACL Tears</h2>



Whether you’re a pro athlete or not, and especially if you’ve already had an ACL tear before, proper training and technique&nbsp; are simple ways to help lower the likelihood of injury.



Here are a few things you can do to help lower the risk of an ACL tear:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Build muscle strength in the hamstrings, and core to stabilize the knee.</li>



<li>Maintain proper technique for movements such as jumping, pivoting, and squatting — like landing on the balls of your feet with knees bent and keeping knees aligned over your toes.</li>



<li>Warm up and cool down before and after physical activity to increase flexibility.</li>



<li>Wear supportive, activity-appropriate footwear for correct alignment.</li>



<li>Consulting with physical therapists or trainers for form and strength assessments can further reduce the risk, regardless of one&#8217;s genetic background.</li>
</ul>



We continue to learn about the role genetics plays in sports-related injuries, including ACL tears, but genetics is just one factor.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn More</h2>



<a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members can view this report with their other Wellness reports.



<a href="https://you.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sign in</a> to learn more about what 23andMe&#8217;s ACL Tear PRS can tell you. 



* The 23andMe ACL Tear PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 6,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of experiencing an ACL tear. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The ACL Tear PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment.

Genetics May Explain Why Some Athletes Are More Prone to ACL Tears

As many as one in 10 women have endometriosis, but diagnosing it can take up to a decade or more. Dive into the science, and learn a bit about a new 23andMe Endometriosis report that looks at the genetic likelihood of developing this painful condition.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="612" height="252" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/endometriosis_hero-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34227" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/endometriosis_hero-1.jpg 612w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/endometriosis_hero-1-300x124.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px" /></figure>



Have you ever been told your debilitating period pain is &#8220;normal&#8221;? Do you find yourself planning your life around your cycle, canceling plans, or missing work or school due to pain, heavy bleeding, or exhaustion? If so, you&#8217;re not alone; these symptoms could point to endometriosis, a common, yet often misunderstood, condition.



For those with endometriosis, tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other places, like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even the bowel and bladder. This can lead to severe pain, heavy periods, and in some cases, may make it harder to become pregnant (between 30–50% of women with endometriosis experience infertility).



If this sounds familiar, it’s important to know that your pain is real and more common than many people think. Endometriosis affects as many as 10% of women in the U.S. Despite this, the journey to a diagnosis can be frustratingly long, sometimes <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39373298/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">taking up to 12 years</a>. This delay often happens because symptoms are dismissed as &#8220;just a bad period.&#8221;



To support awareness and help people understand their genetic predisposition to endometriosis, we’ve launched the new Endometriosis* report for female <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Total Health</a>™ members.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-causes-endometriosis">What causes endometriosis?</h2>



While the exact cause isn&#8217;t known, several factors can increase your likelihood of developing endometriosis:



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="612" height="720" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Group-125628.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34211" style="width:259px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Group-125628.png 612w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Group-125628-255x300.png 255w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px" /></figure>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Age: It most often affects menstruating people and is frequently diagnosed in the 30s and 40s.</li>



<li>Family history: Having a family member with endometriosis increases risk.</li>



<li>Reproductive history: Starting menstruation at a young age, experiencing menopause later in life, and having frequent or heavy periods (short cycles or bleeding lasting more than 7 days) can all increase chances of developing the condition.</li>
</ul>



These factors are associated with a higher risk. On the other hand, having been pregnant or breastfeeding may reduce risk.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-genetic-connection">The genetic connection</h3>



Endometriosis is what’s known as a <a href="https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Polygenic-Trait" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polygenic</a> condition — meaning that many different genetic variants in many different genes can influence a person’s chances of developing it. In fact, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26209831/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research suggests</a> that genetics may explain nearly half of the differences in who develops endometriosis across a population.



In 2023, 23andMe collaborated with researchers at Oxford in what was at the time the largest study on <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/largest-genetic-study-to-date-links-endometriosis-with-chronic-pain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endometriosis and its association with chronic pain</a>. Now, to further understand the genetics of this condition, researchers at 23andMe looked at genetic and self-reported data from more than 1.5 million consented research participants. Using this information, they created a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) — a model that considers thousands of genetic variants to estimate a person’s likelihood of developing endometriosis.



However, this model did not perform as accurately for 23andMe customers with Black or African American ancestry. Due to this limitation, we cannot provide a result for the Endometriosis report to those customers at this time. This is an important reminder that genetics research has historically underrepresented many communities. With continued research and broader participation, we hope to improve this work and reduce these disparities in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do-about-it">What you can do about it</h2>



While the road to getting a diagnosis and managing endometriosis can be long and frustrating, there are proactive steps you can take on your journey to getting answers and feeling better.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advocate-for-yourself">Advocate for yourself</h3>



Track Your Symptoms. Before you see a doctor, consider starting a symptom diary. Being specific can make a big difference. Every day, note:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pain: On a scale of 1–10, where is the pain, and what does it feel like (sharp, dull, cramping)?</li>



<li>Timing: When during your cycle do you feel symptoms? (During your period, during ovulation, all month long?)</li>



<li>Bleeding: How heavy is your flow? Are you passing clots?</li>



<li>Other Symptoms: Note any bloating, painful bowel movements, pain with sex, or fatigue.</li>



<li>Impact: How do these symptoms affect your daily life? (e.g., &#8220;Missed two days of work,&#8221; &#8220;Couldn&#8217;t exercise,&#8221; &#8220;Had to leave the party early.&#8221;)</li>
</ul>



Connect with a Doctor. Armed with your symptom diary, make an appointment with a healthcare provider.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Be clear and confident. Say, &#8220;I am concerned I might have endometriosis because of these specific symptoms.&#8221;</li>



<li>Don&#8217;t be afraid to ask questions. &#8220;What are the next steps for diagnosis?&#8221; or &#8220;Could we explore treatment options for my pain now?&#8221;</li>



<li>If you feel dismissed, get a second opinion. Look for a gynecologist who specializes in endometriosis or pelvic pain.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manage-symptoms">Manage symptoms</h3>



There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but experts agree that certain lifestyle habits can make a difference:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Exercise: Activities like yoga can improve blood flow, relax muscles, and reduce pain.</li>



<li>Relaxation and self-care: Rest, warmth on the lower stomach (like a heating pad, warm water bottle, or bath), and gentle movement can help ease discomfort.</li>
</ul>



Medical options may include medications to manage pain and hormone levels, pelvic floor physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Because endometriosis tissue can respond to estrogen, symptoms may improve after menopause, when estrogen levels remain consistently low.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-take-the-next-steps">Take the next steps</h2>



Endometriosis pain is not an exaggeration, and it deserves to be taken seriously. Seeking answers is the first and most powerful step toward managing your health and reclaiming your quality of life.



Ready to learn more about your health and genetics and take the next step in your journey? Learn more about <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a> or <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Total Health</a> memberships.



Already part of 23andMe? <a href="https://you.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sign in</a> to view this report with your other Health Predisposition reports or upgrade 23andMe+ Premium or Total Health memberships.



* The 23andMe Endometriosis PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 13,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of developing endometriosis. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history, and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Endometriosis PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment. 



NOTE: Within this blog post, we use the words &#8220;women&#8221; and &#8220;female&#8221; to refer to people whose sex assigned at birth is female. However, we recognize that not everyone who experiences endometriosis will identify as female, 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 why we made this decision 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>.

Could Your Painful Periods Be Endometriosis? Here’s What You Should Know

This week, 23andMe added a new genetic report to help us all be more aware of an often overlooked contributor to health disparities.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="763" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1024x763.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34101" style="width:309px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1024x763.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-300x224.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-768x572.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-880x656.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1180x879.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic.png 1224w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35994632/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nearly 70%</a> of Black and African Americans have two copies of a variant in the Duffy antigen gene that can cause them to have white blood cell (WBC) counts that are lower than most standard reference ranges.&nbsp;



People who have this genotype — called Duffy null status — do not have an increased risk for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32959868/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infection</a> or <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39825822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other health problems</a>. But they may be flagged incorrectly as having abnormally low WBC counts, which can negatively impact the healthcare they receive.&nbsp;



&#8220;I&#8217;ve seen patients that are told that they might have cancer, go through painful bone marrow biopsies, miss out on joining clinical trials, or have critical medications like chemotherapy discontinued simply because their white blood cell counts were interpreted without understanding their Duffy status,&#8221; says Dr. Lauren Merz, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology at the University of Michigan, who is leading efforts to raise awareness about Duffy null status and develop Duffy null-specific reference ranges and who provided expert feedback on 23andMe&#8217;s new report.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-a-one-size-fits-all-blood-test-falls-short">When a one-size-fits-all blood test falls short</h2>



When we have our blood drawn, testing labs use reference ranges to determine whether our results fall in the range considered &#8220;normal&#8221; or are too high or too low, which can flag the need for clinical follow-up. One common blood test measures neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections.



Most neutrophil reference ranges are defined based on populations where Duffy null status is rare, such as people with European or Asian genetic ancestry. And blood testing labs don&#8217;t usually take into account Duffy status. As a result, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35994632/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nearly 25%</a> of healthy Black and African Americans with Duffy null status — and more than 15% of all Black and African Americans — have neutrophil counts below the standard reference range.



These individuals may be misdiagnosed with neutropenia (low neutrophil counts), which can lead to a number of downstream harms, including <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34180972/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unnecessary specialty referrals and follow-up tests</a> like bone marrow biopsies; <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exclusion from clinical trials</a> (because many trials require a minimum number of neutrophils that is higher than the normal range for people with the Duffy null genotype); and delayed or reduced access to medications for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34645395/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health conditions</a>, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35724382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autoimmune disorders</a>. (See the sidebar at the bottom for more details.)



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-the-duffy-antigen-and-how-does-it-impact-white-blood-cells">What is the Duffy antigen, and how does it impact white blood cells?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="87" height="138" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/research.b57972a5e8fa.svg" alt="an icon representing research" class="wp-image-29284" style="width:117px;height:auto"/></figure>



The Duffy antigen is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells and certain other cells in the body. People with two copies of a specific <a href="https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/duffy-null-associated-neutrophil-count" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic variant in the ACKR1 (Duffy antigen) gene</a> don&#8217;t express this protein on their red blood cells — giving rise to the name &#8220;Duffy null.&#8221;



Being Duffy null can also impact infection-fighting white blood cells called neutrophils. People who are Duffy null tend to have naturally lower levels of circulating neutrophils in the peripheral blood — <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37338884/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">about 40% lower, on average</a>. But they don&#8217;t have an increased risk for infection, because the total number of neutrophils in their bodies remains the same. (Their neutrophils just move from the blood into other tissues like the spleen more easily.)



In the past, healthy people with low neutrophil counts were said to have &#8220;benign ethnic neutropenia,&#8221; because the Duffy null variant is more common in certain populations. But the preferred name is now <a href="https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/duffy-null-associated-neutrophil-count" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duffy null-associated neutrophil count (DANC)</a>, as this refers to the biological driver of Duffy status rather than the social construct of race or ethnicity — and highlights that lower neutrophil counts are normal for people who are Duffy null.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-duffy-null-status-associated-with-any-health-conditions">Is Duffy null status associated with any health conditions?</h2>



To date, there is no robust evidence that people with Duffy null status are at increased risk for any health conditions. In fact, a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39825822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent, large phenome-wide association study (PheWAS)</a> — which looked for potential associations between the Duffy null variant and 1,400 possible health conditions using the National Institutes of Health&#8217;s All of Us initiative and other cohorts — did not report any associations with disease. However, this is an active area of research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-duffy-null-status-most-common-in-certain-populations">Why is Duffy null status most common in certain populations?</h2>



Although anyone can have Duffy null status, it is most common among people with African or Middle Eastern ancestry. In the U.S., two-thirds of people who identify as Black or African American have the Duffy null genotype, which means they do not express the Duffy antigen on their red blood cells.&nbsp;



Scientists believe this variant became common in certain populations because it <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21468018/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">helps protect against Plasmodium vivax</a>, a malaria parasite that relies on the Duffy antigen to infect red blood cells. (The variant does not protect against other types of malaria.) Over generations, people in regions where this malaria parasite was widespread were more likely to inherit this protective variant, and it remains common today in people with ancestry from some malaria-endemic regions.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="934" height="597" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34139" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C.png 934w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-300x192.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-768x491.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-880x562.png 880w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 934px) 100vw, 934px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">23andMe data also show that the Duffy null genetic variant is most common in people with ancestry from parts of the world where Plasmodium vivax malaria is common.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-raising-awareness">The importance of raising awareness</h2>



Last year, the American Society of Hematology (ASH) launched the <a href="https://www.hematology.org/education/danc/danc-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) by Duffy Status Project</a>, aimed at creating specific neutrophil reference ranges for people with the Duffy null genotype and advocating for broader awareness and testing.



&#8220;The Duffy null genotype is a perfect example of how well-meaning systems can fall short when they don&#8217;t reflect the full diversity of the people they serve,&#8221; says Dr. Merz. &#8220;Raising awareness — among both clinicians and patients — is essential to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure more equitable and personalized care.&#8221;



You can become your own advocate by learning about your Duffy status and sharing that information with your doctor.&nbsp;



The White Blood Cell Count (Duffy Antigen-Related) report is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium™ members</a> with their other Wellness reports.



<div style="float: left; text-align: justified; width: 700px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 5px;">
 
<h3>A deeper dive: How lack of awareness of Duffy null status can lead to downstream harm</h3>


Although Duffy null status does not usually cause health problems, harms can arise when Duffy null individuals are misdiagnosed with abnormally low neutrophil counts. These harms can include:
<ul>
<li>
Unnecessary follow-up testing. In general, low neutrophil counts can prompt concern from doctors, because they can be caused by blood cancers like leukemia. Follow-up testing involves a bone marrow biopsy, which is an invasive and sometimes painful test. 
 Because their neutrophil counts may be naturally lower than standard reference ranges, people with Duffy null status are much more likely to receive <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34180972/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unnecessary bone marrow biopsies</a>. And one study reported that Duffy null status was the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37419240/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most common reason</a> for children to be referred to a children&#8217;s hospital for low neutrophil counts.
</li>
 
<li>
Exclusion from clinical trials. Many chemotherapy drugs reduce WBC production, which can make patients more susceptible to infections. As a result, most cancer clinical trials require patients to have a minimum neutrophil count before starting the trial, to help keep patients safe. 
 But a recent study found that more than 75% of cancer clinical trials have neutrophil thresholds that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exclude some people with Duffy null status</a>. Researchers have suggested these exclusion criteria may be one reason that Black Americans are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37477920/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">less likely to be included in cancer clinical trials</a>.
</li>
 
<li>
Delayed or reduced access to medications. Because some medications reduce WBC production, patients often have their neutrophils counted before and during treatment, so that their clinicians can adjust the dose, delay the start of treatment, or discontinue medications if counts become too low. 
 Because people with Duffy null status tend to have lower starting neutrophil counts, they may experience reduced or delayed access to important medications for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34645395/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health conditions</a>, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35724382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autoimmune disorders</a>, or inappropriate dose adjustments. Because chemotherapy dose often increases the chance of survival, some scientists think that inappropriate chemotherapy dosing related to Duffy null status could help explain, in part, why <a href="https://www.cancer.org/about-us/what-we-do/health-equity/cancer-disparities-in-the-black-community.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breast cancer mortality is higher in Black than white Americans</a>.
</li>
</ul>

</div>

The Duffy Antigen Gene: A Clue Behind White Blood Cell Differences

<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-initiative-accelerates-access-to-vital-genetic-and-clinical-insights">Data initiative accelerates access to vital genetic and clinical insights</h5>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2.png" alt="Illustration of lungs on a background with a larger illustration of lungs" class="wp-image-34192" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2.png 1200w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-300x169.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-768x432.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-880x495.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-1180x664.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



At the 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer in Barcelona, the 23andMe Research Institute, in collaboration with Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies and the health data software company Lifebit, introduced an open-source platform that could help fast-track research discoveries through a powerful new cancer data repository.



The announcement comes just a year after the start of the<a href="https://www.23andme.com/lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Lung Cancer Genetics Study</a>, spearheaded by 23andMe and bringing together more than 20 lung cancer advocacy and science organizations to recruit 10,000 people diagnosed with lung cancer. Their goal is to develop new ways to identify those at highest risk for lung cancer early, while also finding possible new treatments for this deadly cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Personal Drive Behind the Mission</h2>



The effort is personal for many of the advocates who are part of the collaboration and also for Anne Wojcicki, founder and CEO of the 23andMe Research Institute. Anne&#8217;s sister Susan Wojcicki died of lung cancer last year, just as the study began.



&#8220;My sister was passionate about understanding the science behind lung cancer so future generations could prevent the disease and treat it. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study is a step towards achieving that.” Anne said.



In the months before her death, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-legacy-of-hope-in-the-fight-against-lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Susan had been very involved in helping to create the study with the hope that it could help others</a>. The idea was not just to leverage genetic data for insights into lung cancer but also to create a repository of data that would be available to as many qualified researchers as possible.&nbsp;



The platform — created through the collaboration between the 23andMe Research Institute, Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies, and Lifebit — offers a secure, open-source data platform for researchers to access this novel dataset. Powered by Lifebit&#8217;s Health Data Ecosystem, the platform provides qualified researchers with no-cost access to de-identified data from people diagnosed with lung cancer who have consented to participate in this research.&nbsp;



&#8220;More people die of lung cancer each year than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined, yet it is one of the least funded for research. It’s important for this powerful new tool to be available at no cost to qualified researchers so that the best minds can work on unlocking the genetic insights that may lead to a cure,&#8221; said Anne.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Building a One-of-a-Kind Data Resource</h2>



Since launching the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-launches-new-genetic-study-of-lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lung Cancer Genetics Study</a>, more than 1,200 people diagnosed with lung cancer have enrolled to participate in the research. The goal is to enroll 10,000 people by 2027, but the study has already assembled one of the most diverse cohorts ever for lung cancer genetic research.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="464" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1024x464.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34183" style="width:242px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1024x464.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-300x136.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-768x348.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-880x399.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1180x534.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Genetics is just one of many factors involved in why some people develop lung cancer. Exposure to tobacco smoke is perhaps the best-known risk factor; however, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2409903/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">80 to 90%</a> of people with a history of tobacco exposure never get lung cancer, and many people without tobacco exposure get the disease. These facts underscore the importance of investigating other, less well-known risk factors, like air pollution, radon exposure, and workplace-related exposures.



And there&#8217;s much more we don&#8217;t know about lung cancer. Many do not realize, for instance, that lung cancer is the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2025/2025-cancer-facts-and-figures-acs.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">number one cause of cancer death in women</a> and <a href="https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/most-common-cancers-in-women#:~:text=It%20may%20not%20surprise%20you,in%20women%20and%20people%20AFAB." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the second most common cancer in women</a>. Although lung cancer overall is decreasing because of declines in tobacco use, lung cancer among people who have never smoked <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7431055/#:~:text=As%20expected%2C%20the%20primary%20factor%20leading%20to,non%2Dsmokers%20has%20been%20noted%20to%20be%20increasing." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">is stable or increasing</a>, and <a href="https://www.webmd.com/lung-cancer/features/lung-cancer-women-who-never-smoked" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two-thirds of people diagnosed with lung cancer with no smoking history are women</a>.&nbsp;



Understanding the genetics of lung cancer may help unravel some of the factors underlying those statistics. Additionally, learning more about the underlying genetics could provide researchers with more insight into the biological mechanisms of the disease, aiding in the development of improved therapies and new diagnostics.&nbsp;



The de-identified data that participants in the Lung Cancer Genetic Study consented to share isn’t limited to just genetics. Many participants also chose to provide self-reported clinical, lifestyle, and even tumor biomarker data. The study will also follow participants over time, gathering important longitudinal data to help researchers understand the progression of cancer as well as the response to treatments.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Empowering Researchers</h2>



By opening up access to qualified researchers, the collaborators aim to address significant gaps in current lung cancer research, break down institutional silos, and remove barriers to dataset access, thereby accelerating research progress.&nbsp;



&#8220;We&#8217;re delivering more than a data system — we&#8217;re enabling an entirely new model for research equity and access,&#8221; said Nadia Litterman, PhD, Director of Scientific Affairs and Partnerships at Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies.



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



Anyone who has been diagnosed with lung cancer can learn more and enroll in the study at<a href="http://23andme.com/lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> 23andme.com/lung-cancer</a>.



Interested researchers can begin the data access request process by contacting TWP study program manager Caitlin Nichols at <a href="mailto:caitlin@twphilanthropies.org">caitlin@twphilanthropies.org</a>.&nbsp;

Illustration of lungs on a background with a larger illustration of lungs

Powerful New Tool Opens Lung Cancer Data for Research Breakthroughs

Health Huddle LIVE from New Orleans brought together top athletes, medical professionals, and community leaders for powerful conversations on health, genetics, and early detection. Hosted at Dillard University during Super Bowl Week, the event was part of 23andMe’s Community Health Huddle, featuring expert panels and free health screenings. 



Watch the Highlights: 



<figure class="wp-block-embed alignwide 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="The 23andMe Health Huddle: Live from New Orleans" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5hOR4o5PkAU?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>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experts-athletes-amp-actionable-insights">Experts, Athletes &amp; Actionable Insights</h2>



Panelists included Dr. Jen Caldwell, Dr. Joel Bervell, and Dr. Mathew Knowles—a breast cancer survivor and 23andMe Global Brand Ambassador—who shared personal stories and insights on health disparities, preventive medicine, and genetic testing. They were joined by NFL Total Health Ambassadors, highlighting how genetic insights shape performance, recovery, and longevity in sports.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-takeaways">Key Takeaways</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Genetic Testing Saves Lives – Understanding your genetic risks enables early detection and prevention, reducing the burden of chronic diseases. </li>



<li>Your Family History is Your Health Roadmap – What runs in your family doesn’t have to define your future, but knowing your risks empowers healthier decisions. </li>



<li>Health Inequities Must Be Addressed – Underserved communities continue to lack access to vital genetic and preventive care. This must change. </li>



<li>Athletes Rely on Science to Perform &amp; Recover – The same genetic insights that help pros optimize their health can help everyone make more informed health choices.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-event-driving-change">Beyond the Event: Driving Change</h2>



Health Huddle LIVE reinforced a core truth: genetic insights aren’t just about ancestry—they’re a tool for taking control of your health and advocating for better healthcare access. By bringing together medicine, sports, and community leadership, 23andMe continues to lead the movement for health equity and empowerment.



 #HealthHuddleLIVE #GeneticHealth #CommunityWellness

Inside Health Huddle LIVE: Athletes, Experts & Doctors on Longevity, Genetics & Wellness

September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, which offers us another chance to highlight some of the work 23andMe and its collaborators have done over the years.



Earlier this month, researchers from 23andMe,<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nih.gov/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the the National Institutes of Health</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/som/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine</a> published new data on the association between sickle cell trait and blood clots. The new findings highlight the importance of this ongoing research and our overall efforts to illuminate this condition.



At 23andMe, knowledge is power, and understanding risks offers people opportunities to mitigate them.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-awareness-and-research">Awareness and Research</h2>



But more than that, 23andMe also offers a unique research model that allows individuals to learn about their genetic likelihood of developing a condition and participate in innovative genetic research that could potentially find new treatments.



As part of our <a href="http://www.23andme.com/sickle-cell" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sickle Cell Carrier Status Awareness Program</a>, 23andMe has collaborated with academics and advocacy organizations to increase <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/sickle-cell-awareness-2">understanding of sickle cell</a>. In addition, we’re providing resources for those with sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease. With the help of the<a href="https://www.sicklecellga.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia, Inc. (SCFG)</a>,<a href="https://www.btsscycle.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Breaking the SSickle Cell Cycle</a>,<a href="https://www.sc101.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Sickle Cell 101</a>, and the<a href="https://www.msm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Morehouse School of Medicine</a>, we’re working with Black communities to promote awareness. 



We are not alone in this effort. Recently, the NBA, the WNBA, and Wilson Sporting Goods began the #IBall4SickleCell social media campaign to raise awareness. The groups participating in the effort are Breaking the SSickle Cell Cycle, the American Red Cross of Tennessee, and New York Presbyterian’s Dalio Center for Health Justice. Learn more about sickle cell, the campaign, and how to help<a href="https://www.sicklecellball.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> here</a>. 



From all this work and research, we have learned much about sickle cell and the people it impacts most. However, much work is still needed to improve people’s understanding of sickle cell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-on-sickle-cell-anemia-sickle-cell-trait">More on Sickle Cell Anemia, Sickle Cell Trait</h2>



Although many people have heard of sickle cell, often they do not know the difference between sickle cell trait and sickle cell anemia.



To have sickle cell anemia, one must inherit two copies of the HbS variant in the HBB gene—one copy from each biological parent. Typical signs and symptoms include anemia, pain episodes, and frequent infection.



People with just one copy of the HbS variant are called carriers. They’re also said to have <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/traits.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">sickle cell trait</a>. People with sickle cell trait are not expected to have sickle cell anemia. They typically do not experience any health complications. However, in rare cases, people with the sickle cell trait may experience some health impacts. Current research, including our study, is underway to understand better and spread awareness about the complications someone with SCT may experience.



Importantly, carriers can pass their variant on to their future children. If their partner has the HbS variant or another variant in the HBB gene, there’s a 25 percent chance that each child may have sickle cell anemia or a related blood disorder.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-23andme-s-sickle-cell-anemia-carrier-status-report">23andMe’s Sickle Cell Anemia Carrier Status Report**</h2>



23andMe’s<a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/sickle-cell-anemia/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Sickle Cell Anemia Carrier Status Report</a>, which meets FDA requirements for clinical and analytical validity, looks at the HbS variant in the HBB gene linked to sickle cell anemia.



Sickle cell anemia is the most severe form of sickle cell disease. Three hundred million people worldwide and one in 13 Black and African Americans in the United States have sickle cell trait, making them carriers for sickle cell anemia.



In addition to informing people if they have one copy of the HbS variant and are carriers for sickle cell anemia, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-updates-carrier-status-report-on-sickle-cell-anemia">23andMe’s report </a>can also tell individuals if they have two copies of the tested variant and if they are at risk of developing symptoms. However, the report does not describe one’s overall risk of developing symptoms. 



Because the HbS variant is more common in certain populations, the Sickle Cell Anemia report is most relevant to people of African, Middle Eastern, and South Asian descent, as well as people from the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and parts of Central and South America.



23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers and 23andMe+ Premium members can see their <a target="_blank" href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/carrier.sickle_cell_anemia/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sickle Cell Anemia report here</a>.&nbsp;



Not yet a customer? Learn more about <a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/?_gl=1*11ns9j4*_ga*OTk4NDAyMjA3LjE3MTgzODA2MTg.*_ga_G330GF3ZFF*MTcyNTQxNDcyOS4xNjQuMS4xNzI1NDE0Nzk4LjAuMC4w" rel="noreferrer noopener">all that 23andMe offers here</a>.



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-note">Note:</h2>



**The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults to report carrier status and reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. The relevance of each report may vary based on ethnicity. 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’s risk of developing a particular disease later in life. We provide a single report for certain conditions that includes information on carrier status and genetic health risk. For important information and limitations regarding other genetic health risk reports and carrier status reports, click <a target="_blank" href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.

An illustration for 23andMe's Sickle Cell Carrier Statues Awareness Program.

Learn More About Our Research and Collaborations During Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Editor&#8217;s note 7/8/2024: This post has been updated since 2020. In addition, We do not support uploading DNA data obtained from other testing services to 23andMe. This article explains the risks of uploading your DNA data to third party services.
With all of <a class="waffle-rich-text-link" href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">23andMe&#8217;s services</a>, you’re in charge of your genetic data. That means we let you decide what information you want to learn and what information you want to share. However, you need to be informed about the risks of sharing your genetic data with other services. This includes understanding the implications if you decide to upload DNA to 23andMe or any third-party service.
After receiving <a class="waffle-rich-text-link" href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-reports-list/">personalized genetic reports</a> from 23andMe, customers can choose to download their raw DNA data. Some customers may do this to upload their data to third-party services, which offer to interpret their raw DNA data to find new genetic relatives or get additional genetic reports. However, 23andMe cannot vouch for the scientific validity or accuracy, or clarity in communication of results of any such third-party services. In fact, only 23andMe offers a consumer genetic test with health reports that have FDA&#8217;s independent assurance of validity and clear results (without requiring a prescription).
Beyond concerns about scientific validity, uploading your raw DNA data to a third-party service can also put <a href="https://www.23andme.com/privacy/">your data privacy</a> at risk. In part, this is why 23andMe provides important warnings to its customers before they choose to download.
<h2>What are some of the risks of uploading your DNA data to a third-party website? </h2>
<div id="attachment_27862" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/how-to-be-careful-with-your-raw-dna-data/what-is-dna-upload" rel="attachment wp-att-27862"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-27862" class="size-medium wp-image-27862" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/What-is-DNA-Upload-300x128.jpg" alt="An illustration of the steps for downloading data." width="300" height="128" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/What-is-DNA-Upload-300x128.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/What-is-DNA-Upload.jpg 512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a>Most consumer genetics companies, including 23andMe, allow you to download your own raw DNA data. At that point, the customer is free to do what they like with their raw DNA data, such as deciding to upload that raw DNA data to third-party services.</div>
At 23andMe, we’re clear with our users about the risks of using third-party services that provide additional health, wellness or trait insights. This is because only select genotype data used specifically in our Health reports have been individually validated for accuracy. While the rest of your data has undergone a general quality review, it has not been validated to the extent of the data underlying our official 23andMe reports. As a result, raw DNA data should not be used for medical purposes and we do not recommend the use of third-party services that claim to interpret raw DNA data to provide health information.
Consumers also cite concerns about law enforcement uploading crime-scene DNA data to third-party services to crack a cold case. Simply put, uploading crime-scene DNA data into the 23andMe environment is not possible because we do not support the upload of DNA data that has been processed by a third-party laboratory.
Further, 23andMe’s <a href="https://www.23andme.com/transparency-report/">Transparency Report</a> details our policy against releasing customer’s individual DNA data to any third party &#8211; including law enforcement &#8211; without receiving the customer’s explicit consent, unless required by law.
However, this concern about law enforcement upload of crime scene DNA data is a real one that we warn customers about should they choose to upload their DNA data to other third party platforms, including public genealogy services or other third party services that facilitate DNA data upload.
But there’s another form of vulnerability that’s less well-understood: Within databases that allow for raw DNA data uploads with access to relative matching features, people with malicious intent can upload real or fake “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_horse_(computing)">Trojan Horse</a>” genetic profiles for access to your personal identifying information. They could even infer your specific DNA variants—such as information about any disease risk variants you might carry. This is one reason why we don&#8217;t support uploading DNA to 23andMe.
<h2>How can that happen?</h2>
<ul>
<li>Many relative-matching services allow you to see the exact section or sections of DNA you share with each relative.*</li>
<li>If uploading DNA data is allowed, it means you no longer know for sure that your relative’s profile is actually controlled by your relative, and a malicious actor could upload real or fake DNA data to deduce information about you based on sections of matching DNA, including any disease risk variants you might have.</li>
<li>Even if shared segments aren’t shown, there are still ways that people with malicious intent can deduce some of your DNA variants.</li>
</ul>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-27863 alignright" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/How-Uploading-Creates-Risk-300x202.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="202" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/How-Uploading-Creates-Risk-300x202.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/How-Uploading-Creates-Risk.jpg 512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
This vulnerability was recently described in two reports: one at the University of Washington and another at the University of California, Davis. The authors of these reports explain several ways an “adversary” can deduce people&#8217;s genotypes “either at key positions or at many sites genome-wide” in databases that allow DNA data uploads with relative matching. This highlights the risks associated with uploading DNA to 23andMe or similar services.
Both reports outline specific ways for services to mitigate risk, such as limiting the information displayed in relative-matching features.
While these practices may reduce risk, we believe the simplest and most effective defense is to not allow individuals genotyped through other testing services to upload their DNA data to 23andMe for the purpose of discovering genetic relatives.
In the past, 23andMe has allowed DNA uploads from other consumer genetic testing services in very specific circumstances. Specifically, on DNA Day in April 2018, 23andMe allowed individuals who tested at other companies to upload their results to access a subset of our trait reports, but 23andMe has not enabled the discovery of new relatives for these accounts.
<h2>How does 23andMe ensure that only real, consenting individuals participate in our service? </h2>
In a word, spit.
When you spit into the tube, you’re embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. You’re also trusting 23andMe with some of your most personal information.
Requiring a saliva sample is how 23andMe is able to verify that you’re a real person who chose to participate in the service. While it might be easy to upload fake DNA data, it’s another matter entirely to fake a spit sample, which requires filling a tube with more than two milliliters of spit. It’s how you know that “Linda-your-4th-cousin-who-you-didn’t-know-existed” is a real person who chose to do 23andMe. Linda had to spit in a tube, too.
<h2>What are some key questions you should ask?</h2>
When considering whether or not to upload your raw DNA data to another website, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with their privacy and security policies before you upload your raw DNA data.
Make sure to consider the following questions:
<ol>
<li>Before you upload your DNA data, ask yourself: do I really need to do this? Am I willing to risk the security and privacy of my DNA data by uploading it to a third-party service?</li>
<li>Do your research! Does the third-party service have a track record of strong privacy and data security?</li>
<li>How will the third-party service use your information?  How can your information be further shared with other third parties?</li>
<li>If you are not interested in discovering new relatives but you want additional DNA insights, does the other service explicitly exclude features relating to discovering genetic relatives?</li>
</ol>
An earlier article detailing our stance on protecting customers’ data is available <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/news/our-stance-on-protecting-customers-data/">here</a>. 
<h2>Learn More</h2>
Find out if your <a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/genetic-health/">genetics</a> might Increase your risk for any health conditions with 23andMe.
You can also Learn more about common risks associated with uploading raw DNA online and how to protect your DNA information.
*By default, 23andMe does not display your ancestry information or DNA segment information to relatives or connections until you decide to share it with them.

Can You Upload DNA Data to 23andMe? 

This past week we&#8217;re continuing to read about the response to the coronavirus, and the efforts to develop a vaccine. But that intense focus hasn&#8217;t been to the exclusion of other interesting articles in our reading list this week. So here is what we&#8217;re reading.
<h2>Wash Your Hands</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-28040" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CDC-Image-of-Coronavirus-300x168.png" alt="" width="300" height="168" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CDC-Image-of-Coronavirus-300x168.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CDC-Image-of-Coronavirus.png 512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />More on the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/world/asia/china-coronavirus-contain.html?action=click&amp;pgtype=Article&amp;state=default&amp;module=styln-coronavirus&amp;variant=show&amp;region=TOP_BANNER&amp;context=storyline_menu">coronavirus</a> — estimates are that China has now imposed travel restrictions on more than <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/18/world/asia/china-coronavirus.html?action=click&amp;module=Top%20Stories&amp;pgtype=Homepage">10 percent of its population</a>! The outbreak has sharpened our focus on the public health response, as well as the need for rapid research required to create an effective vaccine. In the meantime, we are all becoming a little more diligent about things like washing your hands. On that note, here&#8217;s an illustration of the most often missed areas when washing your hands.
<h2>Glass Houses</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-28039" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Real-Life-Book-Image-191x300.jpg" alt="" width="191" height="300" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Real-Life-Book-Image-191x300.jpg 191w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Real-Life-Book-Image.jpg 318w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 191px) 100vw, 191px" />We often believe that working in the sciences is somehow more progressive than working in other fields. Still, Brandon Taylor&#8217;s book Real Life offers <a href="https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/brandontaylor/i-dont-miss-being-a-scientist-except-when-i-do">a different point of view</a>. As a gay black man, he often felt isolated, silenced and marginalized. &#8220;Science was the constant humiliation of wondering if I had justified my presence,&#8221; Tayor writes in this Buzzfeed piece. He wondered if he had &#8220;made it harder for the next black person to get admitted.&#8221; Ultimately it&#8217;s what drove him from the field.
<h2>The Food We Eat</h2>
We eat <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/food/2020/feb/13/how-ultra-processed-food-took-over-your-shopping-basket-brazil-carlos-monteiro">a lot of junk</a>, and that may explain why we&#8217;re getting so fat. We&#8217;re not just consuming processed food loaded with sugar, salt, and fat, but what are called &#8220;ultra-processed foods.&#8221; These are &#8220;foods&#8221; are what the Guardian calls &#8220;concoctions of concoctions&#8221; that resemble food. According to this Guardian story, now more than half the calories consumed in the United States and the UK are made up of these ultra-processed foods. Makes us think that <a href="https://michaelpollan.com/books/">Michael Pollan&#8217;s</a> diet advice, &#8220;Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.&#8221; And when he says &#8220;food&#8221; he means real food, not processed stuff.
<h2>Heavy</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-28041" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tommy-Tomlinsons-Book-197x300.png" alt="" width="197" height="300" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tommy-Tomlinsons-Book-197x300.png 197w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tommy-Tomlinsons-Book-768x1169.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tommy-Tomlinsons-Book-673x1024.png 673w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tommy-Tomlinsons-Book-578x880.png 578w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tommy-Tomlinsons-Book-775x1180.png 775w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tommy-Tomlinsons-Book.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 197px) 100vw, 197px" />It would all be so simple if we ate less and made better food choices, but it&#8217;s not so simple. There&#8217;s much more involved in what drives people to eat the way they do. We wish more people had read Tommy Tomlinson&#8217;s 2019 book, &#8220;<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Elephant-in-the-Room/Tommy-Tomlinson/9781501111617">The Elephant in the Room, One Fat Man&#8217;s Quest to Get Smaller in a Growing America</a>.&#8221; A great writer and one-time finalist for a Pulitzer Prize, Tomlinson brings his story and a lot of humanity to the struggles of people trying to lose weight and improve their health. Helping people to make those changes requires a more profound understanding, or we&#8217;ll never deal with the looming obesity crisis. &#8220;What I want you to understand, more than anything else, is that telling a fat person to &#8216;eat less and exercise&#8217; is like telling a boxer, &#8220;Don&#8217;t get hit,&#8221; Tomlinson writes. Understanding the emotional and psychological hurdles people often need to clear before taking the actions they already know they need to take to be healthy is essential. Tomlinson&#8217;s writing brings that home, just as he vividly describes his weight&#8217;s toll on his body. Read his book, now in paperback, or at least read the piece he wrote last year for the <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2019/01/weight-loss-essay-tomlinson/579832/">Atlantic</a>.
<h2></h2>
<h2>Ghost in the Machine</h2>
More good stuff on <a href="https://www.discovermagazine.com/planet-earth/genetic-traces-of-mysterious-human-lineage-detected-in-people-living-in">Ghost DNA</a> finding but no name for this ancient human cousin until we get the bones. Scientists found <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/12/science/west-africa-ancient-humans.html">evidence of these ancient human cousins</a> in the DNA of modern living humans in West Africa. What we are learning is that it wasn&#8217;t just <a href="https://www.the-scientist.com/features/neanderthal-dna-in-modern-human-genomes-is-not-silent-66299">Neanderthals, </a>or <a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2019/09/ancient-dna-puts-face-mysterious-denisovans-extinct-cousins-neanderthals">Denisovans</a>, or even <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/2018/08/news-homo-floresiensis-hobbit-genetics-dna-pygmy-flores-island/">Hobbits</a>, that interbred with early modern humans. Our ancestors were also mixing with other as <a href="https://theconversation.com/early-humans-in-africa-may-have-interbred-with-a-mysterious-extinct-species-new-research-131699">yet unidentified ancient human cousins</a>.

Junk Food, Viruses, and Ghosts — What We’re Reading This Week

<div id="attachment_24377" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-24377" class="wp-image-24377 size-medium" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Gov.-Sandoval-300x264.jpg" alt="gov-sandoval" width="300" height="264" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Gov.-Sandoval-300x264.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Gov.-Sandoval-768x675.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Gov.-Sandoval-1024x901.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Gov.-Sandoval-880x774.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Gov.-Sandoval-1180x1038.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Gov.-Sandoval.jpg 1244w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval, center, on the day the study was announced.</div>
If you’d like to know whether people want access to their genetic information and will participate in research, just go to Nevada.


Gov. Brian Sandoval was one of the first to sign up, and in less than a day more 5,000 of his fellow “Silver State” residents joined him to be part of an <a href="http://www.rgj.com/story/news/2016/09/16/nevada-dna-study-expanded-10000/90519458/">  innovative population health study</a> being conducted by Renown Health and the Desert Research Institute and powered by 23andMe.
&#8220;Surpassing an ambitious enrollment goal of 5000 people in less than 24 hours is unheard of in research studies,&#8221; said Anne Wojcicki, 23andMe’s CEO and cofounder.


The pilot study – which kicked off in September and was expanded to 10,000 residents to meet the huge demand – offers participants access to their 23andMe results at no costs. Researchers will then use health and environmental information with genetic and phenotypic data from study participants to look at ways to improve health in the state.
“This is a (project) that other communities can learn from,” said Dr. Anthony Slonim, president and CEO of Renown Health.
The hope is that the study will enable researchers to build predictive models that could in turn be used to learn more about public health issues in the state, and ultimately improve the health of Nevadans.
This study uses a service developed by 23andMe called<a href="https://researchers.23andme.org/"> Genotyping Services for Research (GSR)</a>, a platform that gives researchers a simple end-to-end solution to incorporate genetic information into their studies regardless of their expertise in genetics.


“We choose the Genotyping Services for Research platform because it&#8217;s the only platform that enables us to give something back to the research participants.  Participant engagement is key to the success of this project.  
On the  research side we don’t have to build a CLIA-certified lab or other infrastructure, to do our own work,” said Joseph Grzymski, Ph.D., the principal investigator of the study. “So the merging of the two is extremely powerful.”
Beyond that, 23andMe’s GSR platform allows researchers to return results to people who are participating in these studies, said Ruby Gadelrab, 23andMe’s vice president of commercial marketing.
“Typically research studies don’t do that,” she said. “GSR is currently the only genotyping service that enables researchers to give something back to participants in the form of the 23andMe customer experience.”


Check out the video to learn more about this promising new study.
<iframe loading="lazy" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qycd_fRSHAY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

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