A new genetic testing kit developed in Australia could offer patients the key to a happier, healthier life.

It's human nature to wonder what the future holds though sometimes it can be frightening to think about it in too much depth, particularly when it comes to health. Many people don't lead the healthy lifestyle they'd like to, falling victim to lifestyle traps such as poor diet, smoking, or insufficient exercise habits that can lead to stress and cellular damage.

The recently launched LifeGenes Program includes a genetic testing kit that allows patients to discover some of their bodies' secrets through a better understanding of their genetic blueprint. The LifeGenes genetic analysis and profile report was recently developed in Australia by Dr Valin Reja, a molecular biologist at the genetic health company ExcelGene. ‘The report that is generated looks at a range of genes that are paramount to our wellbeing and longevity,' Dr Reja says. ‘The scientifically objective data in the report highlights variations in our genetic function that can effect our physiology and increase our predisposition to poor health outcomes over a period of time.'

A person's genetic makeup is a key factor in determining how they will age and which illnesses or conditions they may be vulnerable to. Genes determine how the body behaves physically throughout the course of its life and the metabolism dictates how certain genes behave. If genetic function can be influenced by improving cellular metabolism, the chances of staying well and live longer are improved.

The LifeGenes Program combines the information from an individual's genetic profile with an exercise and lifestyle history and nutritional profile. This helps to provide them and their doctor with the key information to enable them to tailor their existing lifestyle choices with a better understanding of how their body is genetically geared. The LifeGenes program also includes a branded educational CD full of video files and a library of printable information that aligns with the key health and medical issues facing society. The CD provides reference and support, to help people better understand their health and wellbeing and make informed decisions about treatment options and leisure and lifestyle choices.

Using the LifeGenes kit to create a patient's genetic profile is a relatively straightforward process. It involves taking a DNA swab from the inside of the cheek, which is then sent off to the ExcelGene lab for analysis. There are14 key genes, associated with the patient's health and wellbeing, that have been identified for profiling and a report is prepared. Each gene has several variations (known as alleles), and the combination of these alleles determines the patient's physiology. Dr Reja says, ‘The report covers key areas and whether an individual has a genetic predisposition to, for example, weight management issues, insulin resistance, Type II diabetes; osteoporosis or heart disease; liver function; cellular damage and recovery from inflammation.' It takes up to three weeks for the full report to be returned to the doctor for further discussion and recommendations regarding a personalised program tailored to a patients individual physiological needs.

The LifeGenes Program- may be of particular interest to anyone who is looking to fight the visible signs of ageing, given that improving ones cellular metabolism can improve the rate at which your cells repair themselves and thus the appearance of your skin. The report is thorough and comprehensive and also provides the patient with an introduction to the concept of genetic profiling as well as references for further reading. ‘This allows patients to monitor themselves throughout their life,' Dr Reja says. ‘It's a positive outlook on the way we practise medicine, because it's working towards preventing diseases from occurring, rather than treating them once they occur.'

Because LifeGenes is a new entrant on the market, any patient wishing to use the kit is encouraged to talk to their doctor or healthcare provider, who may need to order the kit in. In today's busy world, many patients find their best intentions falling by the wayside when it comes to their health. The LifeGenes Program offers them a way to identify genetic challenges and compensate with appropriate adjustments to their health and lifestyle.

ACSM #39