Over the past decade, studies in both men and women have shown that inflammation is a major risk factor for heart disease, perhaps as important as unhealthy cholesterol levels. Recent scientific discoveries suggest that part of the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, is due to variations in the genes we inherit. Just as with common cardiovascular risk factors such as high cholesterol, smoking and diabetes, the presence of one or more of these DNA variations does not mean that a person will develop cardiovascular disease. However, using knowledge of genetic risk factors to make informed diet and lifestyle choices can reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease in the future.
Gensona Heart Health is the first and only genetic test that analyzes two interleukin 1 (IL1) genes for variations that identify a person’s predisposition to overexpression of inflammation and risk for cardiovascular disease. Genetic susceptibility to IL1 may not trigger or cause heart disease, but rather may result in earlier or more severe disease. This test is not intended to diagnose or ensure a specific disease. The IL1 genetic test can be used to differentiate specific IL1 genotypes associated with different inflammatory responses to identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease and heart attacks even before the age of 60.
The IL1 heart health genetic test is based on scientific data from genetic association studies obtained through research collaborations with scientific experts in cardiovascular diseases at leading academic institutions. This exclusive, patented test, developed by Interleukin, uses the latest medical research and technology to provide the best genetic information available to make decisions aimed at maintaining heart health.
Genetic testing provides risk information independent of traditional risk factors (such as family history, high blood pressure and smoking) in heart disease risk assessment. The composite IL1 genotypes are important, as are many of the standard risk factors currently associated with heart disease. A positive result means that the DNA pattern in your IL1 genes is linked to a tendency towards increased inflammation and heart disease before age 60. People who test positive have about twice the risk of heart attack as people who test positive at the lowest risk level.
Knowing an individual’s IL1 genotype identifies a lifelong influence on inflammation that can be modulated by preventive measures. The composite IL1 genotypes associated with increased risk are common across most ethnic and racial groups. Knowing the predisposition to inflammation can help develop a personalized health plan (diet and lifestyle) to reduce risk. Diet and lifestyle choices aimed at reducing IL1-induced inflammation may improve heart health.
My next article entitled The Science Behind the Gensona Heart Health Genetic Test will provide a scientific summary of this testing procedure.
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Kevin McNabb
Thanks to Kevin McNabb
