vuGene

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Frequently asked Questions

Q. How accurate are genetic tests?

A. Genotyping (reading your DNA) is more than 95% accurate.

 

Q. What is the difference between genetic tests and regular tests?

A. Genetic testing reveals your genetic makeup and personal disease risk - read more.

 

 

Q. How confidential is the test?

A. vuGene does not keep customer genetic test data in our databases, does not post it on the internet and does not copy or share these data. After the results have been delivered to the customer, all personally identifiable information linking the customer to genetic data is destroyed. There are no third parties (e.g. insurance companies) involved and your test results will not be part of your medical record, unless you choose so. Please see our Privacy Policy for more details. Therefore, we can guarantee the highest possible level of confidentiality.

 

Q. What is your return policy?

A. In the event the customer changes his or her mind after ordering the test but before the kit has been shipped, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling 1 877 483 2071 to cancel your order and request a full refund. If you received a package but do not intend to use, please contact us at the email address or telephone number given above and cancel the order within two weeks upon receipt. Unopened packages received by the customer can be returned within 60 days for a full refund. The customer will be responsible for the shipping charges. Once opened, packages cannot be returned and no refunds will be issued.

 

 

Q. What is a genetic test?

A. A genetic test is any analysis used to look at a person’s genetic makeup. Everyone is born with a unique set of genes. Sometimes a person’s genes may cause a disease or birth defect. Genes can also cause certain physical features, or an increased chance of developing a certain condition. The test may examine a person’s DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), RNA (ribonucleic acid), proteins, or other chemicals in cells that can indicate a genetic condition. There are different reasons for doing genetic tests. The main goal is to have information about one's genetic makeup. They can also be used to confirm a diagnosis or help to predict what are chances that a person will develop a disease or condition in the future.

 

 

Q. Who will explain my test results?

A. Our physician who is specializing in Alzheimer's and memory disorders diagnosis and treatment and is certified by The American Board of Medical Specialties will discuss your test results with you at no extra charge.

 

Q. Do you test for depression or suicidality?

A. Please contact us and let us know what conditions interest you.

 

Q. Will vuGene provide updates?

A. Information about genetic risk factors is constantly updated and posted on our Website. We can also provide you links to new information if you send us an email asking for it. Updates are free of charge.

 

Q. Will my genetic information be used in research studies?

A. No. At this time vuGene is not conducting research studies involving genetic information.

 

Q. Who will have access to my results or samples?

A. Only you will have access to the test results. To minimize chances of inadvertently releasing the data, vuGene does not store, copy or share your genetic information.  Unless you request to store your DNA, samples will be destroyed as soon as you receive your test results.

 

Q. Will vuGene test my ancestry?

A. No, at this time vuGene does not offer genetic ancestry testing. 

 

Q. What are risks of genetic testing?

A. There are no major risks in taking a genetic test. However, one should keep in mind that your results might show that you have an increased risk for a condition, such as Alzheimer's dementia, for which there is no cure. This information might help you plan your life but it could make you feeling anxious. There is a potential for discrimination if your genetic information becomes available to your insurance companies or your employer. Please see more details about potential risks of genetic tests here.

 

Q. What are benefits of Alzheimer's genetic testing?

A. If your test results show an increased risk of Alzheimer's, you can discuss with your doctor what health steps you could take to lower it. You could take legal steps to protect yourself and your property. You could plan for your future care. For example, you may decide to purchase long-term care insurance before you developed symptoms. You could prepare a will or set up a Power of Attorney or a similar agreement. You may enroll in a clinical disease prevention trial. Many yet unknown options may become available in the near future and knowing your genetic information may allow you to take advantage of these options. 

 

Q. Do you test for early or late-onset Alzheimer's

A. We test for genetic polymorphisms known as SNPs associated with the Late-onset (age 50-80) disease. Presence of these SNPs is associated with significantly increased disease risk (up to 25% or more by various studies) and earlier onset (by about 10 years). Early-onset (age 30s) Alzheimer's disease is extremely rare (less than 1% of all cases), is associated with mutations in presenilin (PSEN1 and PSEN2) genes and amyloid precursor protein (APP) gene, runs in families and most patients die early, often in their early 40s. 

 

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 All tests include

A Personalized Report

A Detailed Description of Health Steps That Could Help Reduce Disease Risk 

Telephone Session With a Physician to Answer Your Questions