Cardiovascular Health Risk DNA Test

Cardiovascular Health Risk DNA Test

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), encompassing conditions like heart attacks and strokes, is a leading cause of death globally. While factors like age and lifestyle play a significant role, genetics also holds a key to understanding individual risk.

Key Biomarkers & Their Impact

• Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is both produced by the body and obtained from certain foods. It is transported through the bloodstream in two types of lipoproteins: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Low levels of “good” HDL cholesterol or high levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol can cause cholesterol to accumulate in the arteries, resulting in narrowed or blocked blood vessels that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Triglycerides: Triglycerides are fats obtained from the breakdown of dietary fats. Excessive levels of triglycerides contribute to obesity, and when combined with high LDL levels, can lead to heart disease.
• C-Reactive Protein (CRP): CRP is produced by the liver in response to inflammation. Elevated CRP levels are a marker of inflammation in the body and are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Lipoprotein(a): Lipoprotein(a) is similar to LDL cholesterol and is rich in cholesterol. High levels of lipoprotein(a) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease because they can accelerate plaque buildup in the arteries, leading to blockages.

Genetic Variants Tested

The Cardiovascular Health Risk DNA Test analyzes specific genetic variants that influence cholesterol metabolism, blood pressure regulation, inflammation, and overall cardiovascular health. The test evaluates genetic predispositions in the following key areas:

• Triglyceride Regulation: Genes like MLXIPL, ANGPTL3 can help protect against harmful fat buildup, while NOS3, GALNT2 variants might elevate triglyceride levels.
• Cholesterol Management: Genes like APOB, SORT1 can help maintain healthy LDL levels, while HMGCR, HNF1A variants might increase them. CETP, LCAT, LPL influence HDL levels (the “good” cholesterol).
• Other Factors: LPA influences lipoprotein(a), APOA5/A4/C3/A1 impacts fat metabolism, LIPC affects unsaturated fat processing, 9p21 is linked to atherosclerosis risk, and GCKR impacts glucose and lipid metabolism.

The Cardiovascular Health Risk DNA Test provides valuable insights into your genetic predisposition for cardiovascular diseases by analyzing key genetic variants that influence cholesterol metabolism, inflammation, and lipoprotein levels. This test allows you to take control of your heart health by making informed lifestyle choices and engaging in proactive healthcare interventions that can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.