Decoding inherited diseases

A genetic breakthrough is helping Asians learn about their risks of developing certain illnesses through their DNA

Many people suffer from chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and cancers.

Researchers over the years have concluded that the catalysts of these acute conditions partly stem from what we eat and the lifestyles many people lead.

Doctors and scientists have also been aware for some time now that these illnesses also appear to run in families, however until recently, the reasons why could only be guessed at.

But the advent of DNA sequencing, the first of which came in the early 1970's, has significantly accelerated biological research and discovery. It's provided researchers with an added tool to gain further insight into the link between acute diseases and genetics.

Thanks to innovative medical technology supported by these genetic studies, a new procedure is available which can help patients tackle medical problems at their root. It's a test for identification of genetic risk.