Osteoporosis Risk DNA Test

Osteoporosis DNA Test – Know Your Bone Health Genetics

The Osteoporosis DNA Test helps you understand your genetic risk of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis by analyzing inherited gene variants that affect bone density, cartilage health, and calcium absorption. A simple, painless cheek swab collected at home is all that's needed — no clinic visit required.

• Screens genetic variants that affect bone and cartilage health
• Inheriting one or more variants may increase risk of osteoporosis
• Painless cheek swab sample collection
• Take targeted steps to improve your bone health now

Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by weak and brittle bones. People with osteoporosis are highly susceptible to bone fractures, often with minimal trauma. It is a disease affecting the elderly that becomes more apparent with age. Fractures from osteoporosis are more common than heart attack, stroke and breast cancer combined.

Osteoarthritis is a joint disease characterized by the breakdown of the protective cartilage within joints and surrounding bone tissue. People with osteoarthritis suffer from joint swelling, pain and reduced joint motion. Commonly affected joints are in the hands, lower back, hips and knees.

The Genetics

By understanding your genetic susceptibility to osteoporosis, you can implement strategies early to delay the onset of bone health complications and reduce the severity of bone loss.

Variants Tested:

• CYP2R1 – Increases the risk of vitamin D deficiency, leading to reduced absorption of calcium. Adequate calcium is essential for healthy bones.
• GC – Increases the risk of vitamin D deficiency and reduced absorption of calcium.
• WNT16 – Increases the risk of reduced bone formation.
• GDF5 – Affects the normal regulation of the maintenance, development and repair of bones, joints and cartilage.
• COL1A1 – Affects the formation of collagen, an essential strength and structural component of bones.

Decreasing Bone Mass With Age

Strong, healthy bones are important for providing structure, anchoring muscles and ligaments, protecting our internal organs and storing essential minerals. From birth until the age of 30, new bone is produced more quickly than old bone is broken down, reaching peak bone mass at approximately 30 years of age. Bone remodeling continues throughout adulthood, but bone mass slowly decreases as old bone removal becomes quicker than new bone production. Poor bone growth as a child, and greater than normal bone loss as an adult, can both contribute towards an increased risk of osteoporosis.

How It Works

1. Order the Osteoporosis DNA Test online and have the kit delivered to your door.
2. Register and activate your kit online, then collect your DNA sample using the painless cheek swab included. Place your sample in the prepaid return envelope and mail it to the lab.
3. Once your sample arrives, it will be tested with precision and care. Access your results through the secure online platform — your personal information remains private and protected.