In the last decade, studies in men and women have shown that inflammation is an important risk factor for heart disease, perhaps equal in importance to unhealthy cholesterol levels. Recent scientific discoveries indicate that some of the risk for cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks, is due to variations in the genes that we inherit. Just as with conventional cardiovascular risk factors such as high cholesterol, smoking and diabetes, the presence of one or more of these DNA variations does not mean that an individual will develop cardiovascular disease. However, using knowledge about genetic risk factors to make informed choices about diet and lifestyle may 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 an individual’s predisposition for over-expression of inflammation and risk for cardiovascular disease. IL1 genetic susceptibility may not initiate or cause heart disease but rather may lead to earlier or more severe disease. This test is not intended to and does not diagnose a specific disease. The IL1 genetic test can be used to differentiate certain IL1 genotypes associated with varying inflammatory responses to identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease and heart attacks even before age 60.
The IL1 genetic test for heart health is based on scientific data from genetic association studies obtained through research collaborations with scientific experts in cardiovascular disease at leading academic institutions. This exclusive, patented test developed by Interleukin uses the latest medical research and technology to provide the best available genetic information to help make decisions aimed at preserving heart health.
The genetic test provides risk information independent of traditional risk factors (such as family history, hypertension and smoking) in assessing risk for heart disease. The IL1 composite genotypes are as important as many of the standard risk factors currently associated with heart disease. A positive result means that the DNA pattern in your IL1 genes is associated with a tendency to increased inflammation and to heart disease before you reach the age of 60. Individuals who test positive have about twice the risk of heart attacks when compared with individuals who are at the lowest level of risk.
Knowledge of an individual’s IL1 genotype identifies a life-long influence on inflammation, which can be modulated by preventive actions. The IL1 composite genotypes associated with increased risk are common in most ethnic and racial groups. Knowing predisposition to inflammation can help one to develop a personalized health plan (nutrition and lifestyle) for risk reduction. Nutritional and lifestyle decisions targeting the reduction of inflammation induced by IL1 may improve heart health.
My next article entitled “The Science Behind the Gensona Heart Health Genetic Test” will offer a scientific summary of this testing procedure.
See you on the Beaches of the World,
Kevin McNabb