Genomic Testing

By Doreen Lewis, D.C., C.C.N.,

D.A.B.C.I., D.A.C.B.N.

We mere mortals are not perfect – physically or in any other way.

A combination of the environment and the genes passed down to us from our parents determines whether we are healthy or sick, weak or strong, intelligent or mentally challenged. In times past, if a person suffered from a disabling or chronic disease, this meant bad news for his or her offspring – the probability that they too, would suffer the same fate.

But today, modern medical technology, in the form of genetic testing, has eliminated the misery of waiting, wondering and hoping that serious illness and/or death will not strike us, even if it did befall a close relative. The risky genes that render some people prone to certain diseases can be identified via four different blood tests, called Genomic Profiles. What’s more, the information on how to modify the environments of those who have inherited the genes is available so that illness can be avoided.

Such risky genes are called, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). An SNP is a variation in a gene that makes an individual susceptible to a particular disease. Although SNPs do not cause disease, they are associated with almost every human disease. Genomic testing allows doctors to identify the genes/SNPs that are at fault and then modify the factors that influence the gene – environment, diet and lifestyle. These changes can actually turn off the gene, thereby circumventing the road to disease.

Several genes affect the basic physiology of individuals who suffer from chronic diseases, such as hypertension, fibromyalgia and osteoporosis. The Osteo Genomic Profile, which identifies six genes that influence bone density, is the Genomic test most often performed at the San Pedro N. Chiropractic Center, in north central San Antonio.

Why test for bone density? Because one out of every three women is losing bone density. Adding to the problem is the fact that the standard drug prescribed for increasing bone density – Fosamax – works effectively on only one out of six women who take it. In other words, Fosamax helps to build bone density only if it turns off the gene that has predisposed the woman to osteoporosis.
Another test commonly performed at the San Pedro N. Chiropractic Center is the Cardio Genomic Profile, which identifies genetic risks for cholesterol imbalance, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, in twelve different genes. One genetic variation that frequently causes health problems is the methylation SNP, which arrests the bodies ability to break down sulfur; this results in excessive, foul smelling gas in the digestive tract.

The methylation SNP is also associated with spontaneous abortion, cervical cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, colon cancer and stroke. Simple supplements of B2, B6 and B12, folic acid and betaine can be added to the diet to turn off this gene variation.
For another example, one of the risky genes for hypertension – SNP AGTR1 – can be kept from triggering disease if the individual drinks a glass of red wine each evening.
Yet a third genetic test is the Immuno Genomic Profile, which identifies SNPs for asthma, arthritis and allergies. Patients who suffer from fibromyalgia and multiple chemical sensitivities can undergo the Detoxi Genomic Profile.

The four Genomic Profiles, which are available to the public at economically affordable rates, can provide insight into our personal health risks and how to avoid health problems and change the course of our medical treatment, if needed.