Frequently Asked Questions
Genetic testing is a test that examines a person’s DNA to identify changes or mutations in their genes.
Sequencing determines the exact sequence of DNA while genotyping analyzes confirmed variations in known genetic locations.
It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive genetic testing results, but the timeframe can vary depending on the type of test and the testing facility.
The cost of genetic testing can vary widely depending on the type of test and the provider. Some tests may be covered by insurance, while others may cost several thousand dollars.
Genetic testing can identify genetic changes associated with certain diseases, but it cannot predict with certainty whether a person will develop a disease.
It is important to discuss your genetic testing results with a healthcare provider to understand the implications and make informed decisions about your health.
Genetic testing is generally considered safe, but there are some risks and limitations to consider. It is important to discuss these with a healthcare provider before undergoing testing.
Genetic testing can provide valuable information about a person’s health risks, help with diagnosis and treatment, and inform family planning decisions.
Yes, some genetic testing companies offer at-home testing kits, but it is important to carefully research and choose a reputable provider.
The majority of human DNA is identical, with only 0.1 percent being different among individuals. These variations in human DNA are known as genetic variations, which take many forms, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) analyzed in our reports.
SNPs, pronounced “snips,” are the most common form of genetic variation among individuals. They occur naturally throughout a person’s DNA when a single point in the genetic code is altered in a specific location.
Genetic variation can be measured using various techniques, including genotyping and sequencing. While there are other techniques available, we use genotyping as it quickly and inexpensively extracts necessary information from a specific location in DNA, compared to sequencing which records all data in the DNA.
Imputation is a process that estimates non-genotyped variations based on genotyped variants. Our DNA kit can measure nearly 750 thousand genetic variations. We can increase this number and measure other variations that can impact our health. By using AI/machine learning, we can convert them into approximately 83 million genetic variations, which we interpret into personalized genetic reports based on established studies.
To safeguard your privacy, it's essential to establish a robust password for your online dashboard and enable two-factor authentication for added security measures. Rest assured, the laboratory managing your saliva sample ensures its destruction after uploading it to your account. You retain full control over your genetic data and have the option to delete your account and associated information at any time by contacting [email protected]. Moreover, your raw DNA data is accessible in CSV format at your convenience. Each DNA kit is assigned a unique encrypted serial number, ensuring that only our database can access your information. We prioritize your privacy and never engage in the sale, lease, or rental of your personal data.
It's typical for your risk scores or results to change over time. While our scores are based on the latest scientific research, they're not infallible and will adapt as models advance. By integrating additional and larger studies, we continually update our calculations to enhance accuracy, which may lead to updates in certain results, particularly for those with borderline scores.
Our genetic testing utilizes Illumina technology renowned for its high accuracy, with rates exceeding 99%.
Imputation boasts an accuracy rate of approximately 99.7%. However, it exhibits reduced accuracy for rare SNPs with a minor allele frequency of less than 1%.
Genetic tests can employ either blood or saliva samples. Both contain DNA, extracted and analyzed to reveal insights into an individual's genetic makeup, including disease risk, ancestry, and other genetic traits. The choice between blood and saliva samples often hinges on factors like convenience, ease of collection, and test requirements. Saliva tests offer a non-invasive, stable, and reliable approach to genetic testing, making them preferred by many individuals and healthcare providers.
Our DNA file adheres to a universal standard, ensuring compatibility with other companies' platforms.
No, we do not accept insurance of any kind.
For updated reports, an annual fee of 365 AED is required.
We provide worldwide shipping services.
Certainly, although there is an additional fee for printed results.
No, our test does not encompass cancer detection.
Yes, purchasing our premium package grants you one week of complimentary genetic counseling. Additional days can be obtained for an extra fee.
A genetic counselor, equipped with specialized knowledge of genetic conditions, addresses inquiries and assists in making informed decisions. Genetic counseling aids in comprehending test results and available options are recommended both before testing and in the event of identification as a carrier.
We recommend you to explore this option. A genetic counselor, extensively trained in genetic conditions, can address specific inquiries and offer guidance tailored to your needs.
Health reports provide insights into various aspects of well-being, encompassing both mental and physical dimensions. They aid in understanding how your body processes micronutrients, susceptibility to health conditions, and other relevant health traits, derived from the examination of distinct genetic markers.
Trait Reports offer personalized insights derived from your genetic variations, identifying specific predispositions, whether physical or behavioral. These traits are quantifiable attributes, and each report is authored by our Science Team. We continually introduce new Trait Reports, providing you with fresh content to explore.
Disease reports offer information on genetic predispositions to specific diseases, providing valuable insights that should be reviewed with a doctor.
*Please note, we do not offer medical diagnoses or treatment recommendations; we aim to provide informative insights into your genetic profile.
Experimental Reports explore various health subjects, including single-gene analyses and distinctive lab indicators, based on preliminary research findings.
Summary Reports provide insight by summarizing each related topic group within specific categories, offering additional reports for closer examination.
Lifestyle reports assess your relative risk for various medical conditions based on your current habits and medical background, using DNA analysis alongside lifestyle information.
The Lab Test Analyzer Tool interprets lab test results using genetic data and recent scientific findings, offering insights into nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and other health concerns.
Our ancestry report provides insights into maternal lineage through mitochondrial DNA testing, tracing back up to 8000 generations.
While we do not currently offer reports on paternal lineage, it is a feature we plan to introduce in the future.
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) serves as the genetic blueprint of the body, containing unique sequences that shape individual characteristics.
Genes provide instructions for synthesizing proteins, ultimately determining an organism's traits and characteristics.
DNA is present in almost every cell of the body, including blood, saliva, hair, skin cells, and other bodily materials.
Genotype refers to an organism's genetic makeup, encompassing all its genes, typically with respect to specific traits.
Phenotypes and traits refer to observable characteristics resulting from an organism's genotype interacting with the environment.
Genetic mutations are changes in DNA sequence that can lead to variations in traits within an organism.
While siblings share approximately 50% of their DNA on average, variations in allele combinations result in varying degrees of genetic similarity.
Typically, full siblings share approximately 37.5–61% of their DNA due to recombination, where the specific 50% they inherit from their parents varies randomly.