Should I Get Genetic Testing
Did you know that children of a parent with cardiomyopathy have a 50% chance of inheriting the condition, even without symptoms? Genetic testing is recommended if you or a family member have cardiomyopathy, especially if the cause is unknown or if it runs in your family.
It is important to consider genetic testing if:
- You or a family member have cardiomyopathy with an unknown cause.
- You suspect cardiomyopathy runs in your famil.
Cardiomyopathy of unknown cause is often genetic, and testing can be lifesaving for you and your loved ones.
Here are key reasons to get tested:
- Genetic Basis: Nearly 50% of cardiomyopathy cases have a genetic component.
- Guidelines: Major organizations like the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and Heart Failure Society of America recommend genetic testing if cardiomyopathy isn’t due to a heart attack or coronary disease.*
- Ease of Testing: Testing is simple and can be done either at your cardiologist’s office or at home with a mail-in spit test.
- Insurance Coverage: Health insurance may cover some or all of the costs for genetic testing and counseling.
- Potential Life-Saver: Identifying a genetic mutation could be crucial for yourhealth and potentially save your life.
*Guidelines published by the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association and Heart Failure Society of America all state that patients with cardiomyopathy that is NOT caused by a heart attack or coronary heart disease should get genetic testing.
Considerations – MYlife, MYfamily, MYlegacy
Genetic testing for cardiomyopathy can impact your life, family, and future. Knowing the genetic mutation that caused your cardiomyopathy can:
- Help guide your treatment.
- Help identify your loved one’s risk of developing cardiomyopathy.
- Allow you to contribute to research for a cure.
An Important Note About Life Insurance
It is important to consider that positive results may affect life and long-term care insurance. Therefore, it is recommended that you discuss this with your insurance agent before getting genetically tested.
A Simple, Affordable Process
Genetic testing is becoming the standard for diagnosing inherited cardiomyopathy. It’s a cost-effective way to learn more about your diagnosis and identify family members at risk, even if they don’t have symptoms. This information is crucial for guiding treatment decisions and potentially saving lives.
While insurance often covers genetic testing, it’s wise to check your policy beforehand. Although positive results could impact life and long-term care insurance applications, the benefits of early detection and intervention for yourself and your family are significant.
Getting Genetic Testing
Genetic testing and genetic counseling is often covered by insurance. Getting genetic testing is surprisingly simple and affordable.
Getting testing for cardiomyopathy is done by a simple saliva sample. To make the process even easier, we’ve partnered with the Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) Foundation to provide links to genetic testing companies offering accessible and affordable testing. To start the testing process, simply click the link below to connect directly with genetic counseling and testing companies.
Get Tested TodayHere are the steps to expect in your genetic testing process:
- Order the test.
- Work with your insurance company to cover the cost.
- A simple saliva test will be sent to your home.
- Spit into the tube provided and mail it back in the enclosed envelope as instructed.
- Test results will be mailed directly to you. (We advise you to share these results with your doctor.)
- Once you receive your test results, we recommend that you schedule a post-test appointment with a genetic counselor to help you better understand your results.
Note: Speaking to a genetic counselor is an important part of the testing process. Not only can they help decide which genetic test is best for you, but they can interpret your results and help create a personalized plan for you and your family members.
Click here to learn more about genetic counseling.
Click here to learn about After Testing and Understanding Results.
Pros & Cons of Genetic Testing
Deciding to undergo genetic testing can have significant effects on your life, your family, and your future. It’s crucial to weigh all the facts to make an informed choice.
Reasons to Get Genetic Testing
- MySelf – Personal Health: Genetic testing can guide your treatment. Knowing the specific genetic mutations linked to your cardiomyopathy could lead to more effective treatment and potentially save your life.
- MyFamily – Family Protection: Testing can help safeguard your loved ones. If you have a genetic form of cardiomyopathy, other family members might also carry the same mutation.
- MyLegacy – Advancing Research: By participating in research studies and clinical trials, you can contribute to finding a cure for genetic cardiomyopathy and help save lives.