important news about genes and type 2 diabetes

[LsDNA]

I am writing to share with you important news about a new test that can determine a specific genetic risk for type 2 diabetes. You may have heard some of the exciting news about this new test, called deCODE T2. This test just recently became available to the medical community in April 2007, so many groups ? physicians and advocates alike ? may not yet be aware of this test.

Since this test is so new, we are hoping that you can help us increase awareness. We are offering this test for free to a limited number of people. The process is simple, painless, and only requires a simple cheek swab. As part of the free testing offer, we are interested in learning about your testing experience and sharing your story with others to help increase awareness of this condition.

If you are interested in learning more about this test, please visit www.dnadirect.com and select ?Diabetes Risk: deCODE T2TM? from the Tests We offer menu.

If you are interested or have any questions about this new testing option, please feel free to contact me directly at lkessler@dnadirect.com.
Thank you,
Lisa Kessler, MS, CGC

[John Walsh, PA, CDE]

You may have heard some of the exciting news about this new test, called deCODE T2. This test just recently became available to the medical community in April 2007, so many groups ? physicians and advocates alike ? may not yet be aware of this test.

Since this test is so new, we are hoping that you can help us increase awareness. We are offering this test for free to a limited number of people.

Genetic testing for certain diseases can provide great value, such as for a genetic variation that predisposes a woman to breast cancer. The deCODE T2 test, on the other hand, at a cost of $500 does not seem to provide value for the vast majority of people.

Per their website, only 18% of Type 2s carry this gene, compared to 9% of the population that does not have Type 2. The single gene tested is one of many Type 2-prone genes and does not exclude the risk from other predisposing genes. In other words, many people with this gene will not develop Type 2 and many others who do not have it will. For most of us, a simple look at our family tree, at our waistline, and at a less expensive test for triglycerides and HDL, provides far more accurate information regarding risk. Thoughts to ponder.

[Coravh]

I think I read somewhere that in the case of T1 they believe there may be as many as 18 genes involved. And they have only found about 5. I think a quick look in the mirror and in the refrigerator will give most folks an idea of their chances of developing T2.

I do know that for some folks, it is not a lifestyle issue, but one of genetics. But genetic screening hasn't come far enough yet to actually predict T2.

Cora