DNA test doesn't change the lifestyle

Shakes to avoid wholesome practices are found everywhere, from smoking, alcohol, and many foods. What if a test? Did DNA conclude that one of these would cause a certain disease? Would you change your practices to reduce your risk? Not necessarily, say a group of scientists at Cambridge University.

In a report published in “magazine BMJ Journal” reflects the conclusions of 18 different studies of people who were given conclusions based on their DNA test.

Studies revealed that people who were told that they are inclined to develop a certain illness did not improve their practices, as changing daily habits proved very difficult.

One study was for Type 2. The author, Job Godino, is not surprised by the result.

I was not surprised because these types of behavior are too difficult to change. They're very complex. They have become habits and generally occur in environments that do not relate to physical activity or a healthy diet. It's much easier to lead a sedentary life. In today's society it is much easier to eat an unhealthy diet. Hence, risk information is not enough to change these habits”, says Job Godino, assistant professor at the University of California in San Diego.

People will already be given an easier opportunity to be informed about their DNA composition.

The genetic testing industry took a big leap in April, when a company was granted first license to test The DNA on the consumer level.

James Lou is cofounder of the company “Helix”, which offers DNA testing to detect certain genetic risks. He says education and support are needed for people.

If you want to change people's practices, you need to get involved in a personal health process. All studies must be conducted for more time. People have to be kept in custody longer and we have to be more flexible about the ways we're going to intervene for certain”, says Mr. Lu.

The consultant for genetic testing, Dr. Robert Green, says however, that the testing process itself serves to remind people to take care of their health.

It's interesting that the testing process affects more than the message they receive from the conclusions. Just enjoying the experience, like, sent in the saliva to test, somehow motivated people to think more about their health and risks”, says Dr. Green, of Harvard Medical School.

Dr. Francis Collins, director of the National Institute of Health in the United States, experienced this firsthand.

He carries with him a fatty model of 3 pounds (2.3 kg) to serve as a reminder of health risks.

A few years ago, Dr. Collins did three DNA tests, which showed that he is at risk of 50% more than one average person developing Type 2.

It was like a shock that woke me up, reminding me that I'm not immortal and that maybe there are some things I can change for the better”, says Dr. Collins.

Since then, he began a healthier feeding program. Combining it with exercise, it has so far managed to lose about 60 pounds [16 kg] of weight.

He says, however, it depends on the individual. Although DNA information is not changing people's lifestyle, for some it can serve as a powerful motivation. / VOA