Your DNA: An Important Piece of Your Heart Health Plan

There are things we can all do to help our hearts stay healthy: Eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, keep a healthy weight, and get consistent sleep. But for some people, the basics aren’t enough—they need proactive heart care to avoid a serious event.

That’s because every person’s heart has its own story. Some heart problems can be passed down through families, even if no one has ever talked about them. Fortunately, DNA can give early clues about these inherited conditions.

A Genomic Life membership includes access to the Genetic Health Screen, which tests your DNA to see if you’re at increased risk for certain heart conditions including:

• Aortopathies (problems with how the body’s largest artery functions)
• Arrhythmias (irregular or abnormal heart rhythms)
• Cardiomyopathies (heart muscle problems)
• Genetic forms of high cholesterol

If your screening comes back positive, you can work with your doctor to take steps to protect your health and build a proactive—and personalized—plan focused on prevention. The Genomic Life team is also ready to jump into action by helping you understand your risk, take meaningful steps to reduce your chances of getting sick, and overcome barriers in the healthcare system. We’re just an email or a phone call away.

If your screening comes back negative, you can feel confident in the steps you’re already taking to protect your heart health. Remember, your health is a journey, and every step you take in the right direction matters.

By uncovering hidden risks early, you and your care team can plan ahead with more confidence. If you haven’t already, head to your Genomic Life member portal and take the Health Questionnaire. It takes just a few minutes and matches you with services included with your membership, including access to the Genetic Health Screen.

Genetic Health Screening: As simple as 1-2-3

1. After you request your Genetic Health Screen, you will receive a test collection kit in the mail. Provide a saliva sample from the comfort of home and mail it to the laboratory. Your results will be ready in 3 weeks, on average.

2. Connect with our experts, who can share clear, easy-to-understand information on what your results mean and how to take next steps.

3. Take your results to your doctor, so they can take action to support your health. If you hit any roadblocks in the healthcare system, the Genomic Life team is here to help you overcome them.