The power of the test
Our tests are much more powerful than tests provided by other companies, and even better than tests used in leading research laboratories worldwide.
The power of the test can be shown by the “Relative Risk” which indicates the increased risk of a person who is deemed to be at high risk by the test, compared to a low risk person. The best published genetic test was developed by a consortium of eleven of the world’s leading melanoma genetic research laboratories, from Australia, France, UK and USA. (Published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology 138:2617-2624).
FAQs
What can I learn from the test?
Genes2health offers tests that will let you know your risk of developing certain diseases. A personalised risk score is provided based on your genetic profile. The results may show that you have a higher or lower risk of developing a certain disease. A low genetic risk does not necessarily mean that you will not develop that disease later in life. Mitigating lifestyle risk is essential even with a lower genetic risk.
Your test results should be discussed with your general practitioner or a genetics counsellor. Who will provide information on how to best manage your results.
What does genetic testing consist of?
Genetic testing involves looking for specific variations in a person’s DNA. This information can determine a person’s chance of developing a particular condition or disease. Our genetic tests involve purifying DNA from a saliva sample and determining which variants are present. Specifically, we test for the variants that make up a “Genetic Risk Signature” as defined by our world-leading methods.
How can this testing impact family members?
Most current genetic tests in the world look for particular single DNA mutations that result in a high risk of disease and may be shared by other family members. Our genetic tests are different. They test many different markers and it is not possible to say how many of these may be shared by other members of your family. Of course, other family members can have their own personal risks tested using our world-leading technology.
How can I share results with my doctor?
We will provide two reports that you can access in your secure account. One report will be in plain language for you, and the other will be more technical that you can share with your doctor. Please note that the MelRisk™ test will not change your current medical treatment, but your doctor can advise you on the best way for you to monitor your skin for any development of melanoma.
Will the test affect my health insurance?
The advice from the genes2health tests will not affect your health insurance. In Australia, Private health insurance is not based on a risk assessment of your health. You will not be asked about genetic test results or your family history of health conditions. So the result of a genetic test has no impact on eligibility for health insurance, or the cost of premiums. A person’s current or future health does not affect their ability to get private health insurance in the long term. A current illness or diagnosis may limit cover for a short period at the commencement of a policy, but not over the long term.
Furthermore, the Financial Services Council represents insurers in Australia. It has introduced a new policy regarding genetic tests and life insurance. Under this policy, an insurer will not ask about or use the result of a genetic test request for policies which fall below specified cover values (e.g. $500,000 for death and total permanent disability). We can’t advise you on your personal situation, but you can discuss this further with an insurance broker or with the Financial Services Council on (02) 9299 3022
Can speaking with a genetic counsellor help me and my family?
A genetic counsellor can help you further understand the results of the test and help in making future recommendations. The Human Genetics Society of Australia maintains a directory of genetic counsellors. You can contact a genetic counsellor near you via this web site:
Privacy
Your results will only be made available to you and your nominated general practitioner and or genetics counsellor. Information obtained about you including your results and any communication with genes2health will not be shared with anyone else.