Genetic testing is crucial for general wellness

January 12, 2023 5:00PM

                           Florida's PEMBROKE PARK - It's crucial to be aware of things that can be outside of your control when it comes to caring for your general health.

Your genetics may reveal important health information, and they are particularly important for letting you know about hidden risk factors for conditions like cancer that you might not be aware of.

"Unfortunately, according to the American Cancer Society, white Americans receive more cancer diagnoses each year while black Americans are at a higher risk of dying from cancer. There are many disparities between the two, but genetics can help close these gaps," said Jerome Madison of Invitae Medical Genetics.

A genetic expert may assist in determining if testing is appropriate for you, regardless of whether you are aware of your family's history of particular diseases or not.

Insurance may pay for the testing if you have a known family history of a certain condition, but you may also do a straightforward saliva test on your own. Visit www.invitae.com for additional information.

And if you've decided to participate in Dry January, doctors believe there are several health advantages to abstaining from alcohol for a whole month.

If you're not replacing alcohol with candy or sweets because you might start to crave those a little later if you stop drinking, you'll definitely experience weight loss, according to Alan Berki, a clinical social worker with Cleveland Clinic. Other benefits include improved energy and the condition of your skin.

Heavy drinkers should speak with their doctor before participating, according to experts, as withdrawal symptoms can be painful and, in rare circumstances, fatal.