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SALT LAKE CITY — Intermountain Health is suspending enrollment in the HerediGene: Population Study, which offers interested people the opportunity to receive free genetic testing for a variety of diseases.
“We are extremely grateful for the community’s support and willingness to participate in this event. HerediGene: Population study. The genetic discoveries from this study were monumental,” Intermountain spokesperson Brad Gilman told KSL.com.
“As a result of these efforts, we have reached the point where we will pause enrollment in this study as of December 28th, so we can focus on returning results to participants and generating more discoveries.” he said.
Until then, people interested in getting genetic testing can sign up onlineOr, just go to Intermountain’s lab and tell them you’d like to join.Sequencing requires less than 2.5 teaspoons of blood, Intermountain Health the website states.
This study is the largest DNA study in the United States; Ongoing since mid-2019. It aims to improve medical interventions for everyone at risk of serious illness and help prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. All U.S. residents age 18 and older are eligible to participate.
HerediGene is already changing the lives of many Utahns.
Former KSL-TV reporter Keith McCord discovered Through this research, he obtained genetic markers for hereditary hemochromatosis. This can be managed with treatment, but if left untreated it can have irreversible health effects. He discovered the diagnosis before symptoms appeared.
Three generations of Elissa Smith’s family received free risk assessments after her father survived colon cancer.
This study revealed that Madison Sertonio has the BRCA2 gene. 45% and 85% chance of developing breast cancer during your lifetime and how likely a man is to get breast cancer 20% and 50% Likelihood of developing prostate cancer.
“I was feeling a little stressed out. I was a little emotional,” she said. promotion video Produced by Intermountain. “But then you have to be happy because you know (the risks). I know at 25 years old so I can get all the tests to prevent the risks. Because knowledge is power. is.”
Participants without genetic markers will not be contacted by Intermountain. However, if a marker is found and you would like to know what the gene is, you will be contacted by phone or letter to schedule an appointment with a genetic counselor.
Large-scale sequencing samples – regardless of whether individual participants carry the deleterious gene – Convenient Contribute to physicians and scientists in discovering new genetic risk factors and treating existing patients.
“We expect to see spin-off studies targeting the genetics of specific diseases in the coming years,” Gilman said. “Intermountain Health remains committed to precision medicine to help patients and their families live the healthiest lives possible.”
