Description

The Polygenic Risk Map™ – Male Complete is a genetic test designed to provide insights into a man's genetic predisposition to a variety of diseases and health conditions. This test uses polygenic risk scores (PRS) to predict the likelihood of developing certain diseases based on genetic factors. By analyzing genetic markers, the test offers an understanding of a person’s genetic risk for several conditions, which can help in early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment plans.

Polygenic Risk Scores Included in the Male Complete Panel:

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. This polygenic risk score evaluates genetic factors that can contribute to the development of CAD, which is often due to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to heart attacks or other heart-related issues.

  • Risk: High genetic risk for CAD can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring.

2. Stroke

Stroke is the fifth most common cause of death in the US. This score evaluates genetic risks that could contribute to cerebrovascular conditions, including ischemic strokes, hemorrhagic strokes, and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs).

  • Risk: Identifying genetic risk factors for stroke can help in preventive measures, such as managing hypertension and controlling cholesterol levels.

3. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

Atrial fibrillation significantly increases the risk of stroke. This polygenic risk score helps identify men with a higher genetic likelihood of developing AFib, which affects the heart's rhythm and can lead to blood clots, increasing stroke risk.

  • Risk: Early detection through genetic testing can prompt timely intervention, such as anticoagulation therapy or rhythm management.

4. Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of developing coronary artery disease (CAD) and other complications like kidney disease and nerve damage. This polygenic risk score assesses genetic factors that predispose an individual to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

  • Risk: Understanding genetic risks for type 2 diabetes can lead to lifestyle changes, including diet modifications and regular monitoring of blood glucose.

5. Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major contributor to heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. This genetic score evaluates the risk of developing hypertension, which can be managed through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular checkups.

  • Risk: Identifying genetic factors for hypertension can help in the early management of blood pressure.

6. Body Mass Index (BMI)

BMI is a key indicator of overweight and obesity, which are risk factors for several chronic conditions, including CAD, diabetes, and some cancers. This polygenic risk score assesses the genetic predisposition to higher BMI.

  • Risk: With genetic awareness, individuals can adopt healthier eating habits and exercise routines to manage weight and reduce health risks.

7. Triglycerides

Elevated triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk of CAD, pancreatitis, and metabolic syndrome. This score evaluates genetic factors that may lead to abnormal triglyceride levels in the blood.

  • Risk: Genetic insights can guide dietary changes, lipid-lowering treatments, and other interventions to manage triglyceride levels.

8. Low HDL Cholesterol

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is known as "good cholesterol." Low levels of HDL increase the risk of CAD. This genetic risk score helps assess a person’s predisposition to low HDL levels.

  • Risk: Understanding this genetic risk can guide individuals in improving HDL levels through exercise, diet, and medications.

9. High LDL Cholesterol

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is referred to as "bad cholesterol." High LDL levels increase the risk of CAD. This genetic score assesses the likelihood of having high LDL cholesterol.

  • Risk: Identifying high genetic risk for elevated LDL can prompt early cholesterol screenings and lifestyle modifications to reduce risk.

10. Lipoprotein (a)

Lipoprotein (a) is a type of cholesterol that contributes to the development of CAD and aortic stenosis. Elevated levels can be hereditary and difficult to modify with lifestyle changes. This score helps identify those at increased risk due to elevated lipoprotein (a).

  • Risk: Early intervention, including lipid-lowering therapies, may be necessary to manage this risk.

11. Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia and is often influenced by genetic factors. This polygenic risk score evaluates the genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease, aiding in early diagnosis and management strategies.

  • Risk: Genetic testing can allow for early cognitive assessments and lifestyle changes aimed at improving brain health.

12. Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer in men. This polygenic risk score identifies genetic factors associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

  • Risk: With a higher genetic risk, regular screenings such as PSA testing and lifestyle changes can help detect and prevent prostate cancer early.

13. Brain Cancer

Brain cancer is one of the more difficult cancers to diagnose in its early stages. This score evaluates genetic risk factors that may contribute to the development of brain tumors, including gliomas and meningiomas.

  • Risk: Understanding genetic predisposition can lead to timely imaging and surveillance in high-risk individuals.

14. Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is known for its aggressive nature and is difficult to detect in its early stages. This polygenic score evaluates genetic risk for pancreatic cancer, helping with early detection strategies.

  • Risk: Genetic awareness can guide high-risk individuals to undergo screenings and lifestyle modifications to reduce risk.

15. Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is highly treatable when detected early. This polygenic risk score assesses the likelihood of developing kidney cancer, which responds well to early intervention.

  • Risk: Early detection through genetic screening allows for prompt treatment, including surgery or other therapies.

16. Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that is highly influenced by genetic factors and sun exposure. This score evaluates genetic risk factors for melanoma, particularly in those with fair skin or a family history of the condition.

  • Risk: Early screening, skin checks, and sun protection strategies are essential for those at increased genetic risk.

17. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, involves chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. This polygenic risk score assesses genetic susceptibility to IBD.

  • Risk: Genetic testing can help in the early diagnosis and management of IBD, including dietary and lifestyle changes.

18. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder that can be influenced by genetic factors. This score helps identify individuals with a higher genetic predisposition to psoriasis.

  • Risk: Early detection can lead to more effective treatments and management of flare-ups.

19. Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the gastrointestinal system. This polygenic score evaluates genetic factors associated with the condition, which is triggered by gluten consumption.

  • Risk: Genetic testing can help in the early diagnosis and management of celiac disease through a gluten-free diet.

20. Ancestry

The Polygenic Risk Map also includes an ancestry analysis based on 26 global populations, providing insight into an individual’s genetic heritage and how it may influence susceptibility to various diseases.

  • Risk: Understanding one’s ancestry can provide context for certain genetic risks that may be more prevalent in specific ethnic groups.

Conclusion:

The Polygenic Risk Map™ – Male Complete is an advanced genetic testing tool that provides valuable information about an individual’s risk for a wide range of diseases, from heart disease to cancer and autoimmune disorders. Understanding these genetic risks enables proactive health management and personalized prevention strategies to improve long-term health outcomes.

Fasting Recommended: For more accurate results, fasting is recommended prior to taking the test.