Genetic testing to determine mutations which may have a propensity for health issues, including cancer. I did mine with Invetae, but there are a number of labs doing this work. I was screened for known mutations associated with a higher risk of cancer and it was this test which determined I have the BRCA1 mutation. Knowing which genetic mutation(s) I have is what opened up treatment options beyond chemotherapy.

I got the 23andMe test specifically to have access to the raw data file provided by the test. I use the raw data for comparison to research when the research says something like “Patients with both the rs2853564 GG genotype and high 25(OH)D levels had the longest OS (median 11.0 months, 95% CI 7.1–25.5) relative to the other patients (p = 0.0079 for interaction) (Fig 2A).” With the 23andMe raw dat, I can quickly search for rs2853564 and see that I am the GG genotype. This combination of data sources gives me a higher confidence that my taking higher doses of vitamin D (with regular Vitamin D blood serum level test wich is a simple blood draw for the test) is an advantegeous path for me to pursue.

Genesight is a pharmacogenomic (pharma co ge no mic) test. I’ve found the results to be really useful as a “medicine compass”. Is it perfect? No I don’t think its perfect – like many things in science the answers and insights changes as new data is gathered.. Is it really good data to have as part of one’s total data population? I do think it is. For me, it’s data has proven to be accurate more often than not. I keep a copy with me and give it to every physician I see. I use it in discussions with physicians about how what they may use during treatment or what they may prescribe might interact with me as an individual. It’s the essence of “precision medicine.

This test is the one which told me Apple Cider Vinegar is a super food for me. Who knew? Well, now me! This test has been very helpful to me understanding what I can and should not eat or take as a supplement.

Mi·cro·bi·ome

/,mīkrō’bīōm/

A person’s microbiome is the entire collection of microbes living in and on the body. The microbiome forms a living layer over your skin and parts of the inside of your body, including the lungs and the digestive tract, from the mouth all the way down to the colon.

When the microbes in your gut are out of balance, your body can't absorb nutrients the way it should. The result of this is inflammation, the root of almost every chronic disease.