If we look back 10 years ago, the leading cause of death for Thais was “heart disease.” However, today, with significant advancements in medical technology, we can quickly screen for risks and identify the causes of heart disease in individuals. This helps reduce the incidence and progression of the disease.
Although the incidence of heart disease among Thais remains high, early diagnostic techniques have enabled us to detect risks and diseases sooner, allowing for timely treatment of heart conditions. As a result, the death rate from heart disease among Thais has dropped to third place. One of the latest innovations in testing is genetic screening to identify genetic risks, known as Heart Genome testing.
What is a Gene? If we compare the structure of the body to a house, ‘genes’ can be likened to architects who design and regulate the functioning of every cell and organ in our body.
Our body consists of 46 chromosomes, or 23 pairs, which house thousands of genes. These genes, intertwined, contribute to our physical characteristics, such as shape, appearance, skin color, hair color, and even the genetic diseases passed down from our parents.
Have you ever wondered why, despite having a healthy lifestyle, your health might still be poor? For instance, high cholesterol, elevated blood sugar, or metabolic issues? “Genetic testing” can help answer these questions by identifying abnormalities in our bodies linked to our genes. The results can inform health management plans to prevent or effectively treat conditions.
Who Should Get a Heart Genome Test? Ten years ago, statistics showed that globally, 7 people died of heart disease every hour. Today, that number has decreased to 2 per hour. Despite the decline in mortality rates, the number of patients undergoing treatment for heart disease continues to rise.
We should first assess our family history. If grandparents, parents, or close relatives have heart-related illnesses, we may also be at risk. Recognizing this early can help us take preventive measures.
Why is Heart Genome Testing Important?
- Risk Assessment: Understand genetic risks and other risk factors.
- Health Planning: Adjust behaviors to reduce risks, such as exercising, dietary choices, and avoiding certain foods.
- Medication Selection: If medication is necessary, doctors can choose suitable drugs based on our genetics.
At What Age Can One Start Heart Genome Testing? Heart Genome testing can be categorized into three age groups based on relevance:
- Ages 18-40: Start testing at a young age if there’s a family history of heart disease to plan health management.
- Ages 40-55: Test to identify genetic factors contributing to disease and select appropriate medications through pharmacogenomics for effective treatment of acute coronary syndromes.
- Ages 55 and Up: Testing in this age group can coincide with treatment planning, medication selection, and personalized nutrition therapy.
How is Heart Genome Testing Conducted? A blood sample is collected and sent for genetic risk analysis in a lab. Testing can be done anytime without fasting beforehand, but results typically take 4-6 weeks.
How Often Should Heart Genome Testing Be Repeated? Since genes do not change, there is no need for repeated testing. If future technologies evolve, we can update our data to assess disease risks according to new information.
What to Do After Learning About Genetic Risks for Heart Disease? If genetic risks are identified, consider two areas of therapeutic behavior:
- Positive Lifestyle Choices: Regular exercise, sufficient rest, healthy plant-based nutrition, high fiber intake, cardio workouts, and resistance training can mitigate the severity of risk factors.
- Negative Lifestyle Choices: Poor sleep, lack of exercise, alcohol consumption, smoking, high-stress levels, and unhealthy diets can exacerbate risks. If Heart Genome testing shows risks, doctors can provide appropriate medication and suggest lifestyle improvements to reduce heart disease risk.
In summary, genes influence disease risk by about 40%, while 60% is determined by behavioral factors. Heart Genome testing allows us to understand heart disease risks before they develop, acting as a key to unlock genetic health insights and plan our future health strategies, thereby delaying or reducing the risk of heart disease.
