www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 51 high cholesterol. It could be the fault of your great-great-great-grandpa’s quirky genetic mutation that decided to take up enduring residence in your family’s DNA, which admittedly is an oversimplification. Your diet can be a contributing factor, but being armed with the information that you’re predisposed to total cholesterol levels over 200mg/ dL should help encourage you to make healthy choices to counteract the indulgence of delicious smoked meats. As this science evolves, we inch ever closer to the ability to preventatively target what ails us as individuals, rather than taking a generalized approach. Had I been aware of certain genetic mutations in my own DNA, I would’ve known to start screening for breast cancer at an age earlier than what the current medical standards dictate. For the research project, MUSC and Helix utilize a saliva sample, taken at home or in person, and assess the impact of the your DNA on your current and future state of health. In addition to assisting with the overall goal of the program, your contribution may impact your health today. You will receive test results you can share with your physician that indicate inherited risk factors for a variety of diseases or traits that screenings and intake forms may have missed. You’ll also have the option to create a free Helix account and will have access to a genetic counselor at no cost. You and your health care provider will then be armed with a wealth of information that could help you stay ahead of any surprises down the road. Specifically, MUSC’s program will be searching for familial hypercholesterolemia, hereditary breast and ovarian cancer and Lynch syndrome, the most common cause of colorectal cancer in younger demographics. Participants must be 18 or older and be able to read and write English fluently. A Spanish-language program is soon to follow. You may sign up or review more information from the comfort of your home by visiting InOurDNASC.org.
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