WHAT IS HEART DISEASE?
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as angina, deep vein thrombosis and hypertension are caused by abnormalities in various biological pathways due to a complex interaction between genes and the environment.
A multi-gene test was developed to help identify CVD subtypes that require different treatment strategies for effective intervention. It improves diagnostic reliability and defines the clinical, biochemical, genetic and environmental risk components as contributing factors to CVD risk.
The gene variations included in the test are important contributing factors to dyslipidaemia, thrombophilia, or altered nutrient requirements that may lead to abnormal blood levels (e.g. homocysteine, serum iron status) in the presence of (modifiable) environmental triggers. This test is performed in conjunction with a medical and lifestyle assessment to determine gene expression as reflected by biochemical abnormalities that in turn could be used to monitor response to treatment.
Combining service with research:
This genetic testing service is combined with an ethically approved research project to enable us to monitor the success of a wellness initiative in collaboration with the referring clinician. Patients will be assisted to sign the research informed consent form that may be be provided together with a sample collection kit. EDTA blood (purple top tube) can also be provided for DNA testing when the informed consent form is downloaded from this website.
Patients are encouraged to contact Professor Maritha Kotze (maritha@sun.ac.za / info@gknowmix.com
; tel. 27 21 9389324 / 0828799108) with any questions they may have about the research or test-related payment.
A quote for the amount due will be emailed to you once the service request has been entered online. Please provide the contact details of the consulting healthcare practitioner for participation
.
