Genetic Testing for Inherited Heart Disease: What You Need to Know
If you have a family history of heart disease, you might be wondering whether you could inherit the same genetic traits. Genetic testing can provide valuable insights into your risk for heart disease, potentially allowing you to take preventive measures or make lifestyle adjustments. Here’s what you should know about genetic testing for inherited heart disease.
What Is Genetic Testing for Heart Disease?
Genetic testing involves analyzing your DNA to identify changes (mutations) that could lead to inherited heart disease. These mutations are called pathogenic mutations, where “pathogenic” means capable of causing disease.
A physician or genetic counselor will typically perform the test, which is done in a lab. Your genes will be carefully examined for variations that could cause heart disease. Genetic testing is often covered by insurance, depending on your family history and risk factors.
Genetic testing can help you:
- Understand the cause of heart disease in your family
- Identify which family members may be at risk
- Adjust lifestyle or preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease
What Does a Positive Genetic Test Result Mean?
Genetic testing results can take a few weeks to several months to process. There are three possible outcomes: positive, negative, or inconclusive. A positive result typically means:
- A gene mutation linked to heart disease has been identified
- All family members who carry this gene mutation are at risk of developing heart disease
- There’s a possibility of passing this gene mutation down to children
- Follow-up consultations with a cardiologist are advised for all family members who carry the gene mutation
Family members without the gene mutation are not at risk of heart disease from this inherited mutation. However, they should still monitor their health and lifestyle as they age.
What Genetic Testing Can’t Tell You
While genetic testing can reveal whether you carry a gene mutation linked to heart disease, it cannot predict when or how severely you might develop the condition. A positive result indicates risk, but not certainty. Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, play a significant role in preventing the disease’s onset.
Similarly, a negative result does not guarantee immunity from heart disease. It only means that no genetic cause has been identified in your genes, and you may still be at risk due to other factors, like diet, stress, or environmental influences.
Who Should Consider Genetic Testing for Heart Disease?
Genetic testing is a personal choice, but it may be especially beneficial for:
- People Born with Heart Defects If you already have a heart condition or have experienced unexplained cardiac arrest or heart failure (especially if you’re under 60), genetic testing can help uncover the underlying cause. Understanding the genetic roots of your heart condition can lead to better management strategies.
- Siblings, Children, and Parents of Those with Heart Disease If heart disease runs in your family, it’s valuable for close relatives (siblings, children, parents) to undergo genetic testing. Knowing whether they carry the same genetic mutation can help them take early action to manage their health.
- Relatives of People Who Died Suddenly from Cardiac Arrest Sudden death due to cardiac arrest, particularly in individuals under 40, is often linked to undiagnosed heart conditions. Genetic testing for family members can uncover hidden risks and help prevent future tragedies.
Other individuals who might benefit from genetic testing include:
- Those with unexplained fainting or seizures
- Those with a pacemaker fitted before age 50
- Survivors of heart failure or resuscitation before age 60
- People with an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia
- Individuals who’ve had a stroke or heart attack early (before 55 for men, 65 for women)
- Those with untreated high cholesterol for many years
Understanding Genetic Testing Results
While a genetic test might suggest a higher risk for heart disease, it doesn’t automatically mean you’ll develop the condition. It’s important to consider genetic results in the context of your overall health and lifestyle choices.
It’s a common misconception that 50% of family members will inherit a genetic disease. Genetic testing provides more precise information, helping to identify who is at the greatest risk.
Take Control of Your Health
If you have been diagnosed with heart disease or are at risk, managing your weight and overall health is crucial. The right diet and lifestyle choices can significantly impact the course of the disease.
New Results Medical Weight Loss offers a range of weight loss programs, hormone therapies, and supplements to help manage your health. In addition to genetic testing, we provide personalized solutions to improve your heart health and overall wellness. Contact us today to learn more about our customized weight loss programs.