If we go back about 10 years, the number one cause of death among Thais was heart disease. However, today, with significant advancements and improvements in medical technology, we can do screening for determine risks and quickly identify the causes of heart disease in each individual. This helps reduce the incidence and progression of the disease.
Today the incidence of heart disease among Thais still remains consistently high. However, with diagnostic advancements that allow for early detection of risks and early-stage disease, timely treatment of heart disease is now possible. Therefore, heart disease-related deaths among Thais become the third leading cause of death. One of the latest innovative diagnostic methods is genetic testing to assess genetic risks, known as the Heart Genome test.
What are genes?
If we compare the structure of the body to a house, 'genes' are like the architects who design and determine the interaction of all cells and all parts of the body.
Our body usually consists of 46 chromosomes, or 23 pairs, which house the 'genes'. Each chromosome contains thousands of genes, and many genes that are intertwined in a helix determine our physical traits such as body shape, facial features, skin color, hair color and everything that makes us who we are. Genes also carry hereditary diseases passed down from both our parents.
Have you ever wondered why despite having a healthy lifestyle, your health seems not good For instance, your cholesterol levels remain high, your blood sugar is elevated, or your metabolism isn’t functioning properly? “Genetic testing” can help provide answers to these questions. The key role of genetic decoding is to identify abnormalities in the body that might be caused by genes. The results can be used to plan healthcare to prevent and provide more precise and effective treatment.
Who should undergo Heart Genome screening test?
According to global heart disease statistics from 10 years ago, there were as many as 7 deaths per hour. However, the current death rate has decreased to 2 per hour. Despite this decline in the death rate, the number of heart disease patients undergoing treatment continues to rise steadily.
Therefore, we might start by examining our family members to see if our grandparents, parents, or close relatives have had heart-related diseases. If there is a history of several family members with heart disease, it can be initially assumed that we might also be at risk of developing heart disease so that we can take preventive measures before it is too late.
How important and useful is the Heart Genome test?
• Help assess heart disease risk: Understand genetic risks and other risk factors.

• Help plan heart health care: Adjust lifestyles to reduce risks, such as exercising, choosing healthy foods, and avoiding foods to which we are sensitive.

• Help select medication more appropriately. If medication is needed, doctors can choose the drugs most suitable for our genetics, including the type and dosage of the medication
At what age should heart genome testing begin?
The Heart Genome test can be divided into three age groups based on appropriateness and importance:
• Ages 18-40: Testing can begin at a young age to identify the risk of heart disease, especially if there is a family history of heart disease, enabling health planning before the disease develops.
• Ages 40-55: Testing can be used to identify factors that confirm whether the disease is related to genetics or not. It can also be used for selecting drugs that are suitable for genetic traits, known as “Pharmacogenomics.” This helps make the treatment of ischemic heart disease effective and safer.
• Ages 55 and above: At this age, heart disease may already be present. The Heart Genome test will be used alongside treatment planning, selecting appropriate medications, and choosing the good nutritional therapy for the individual.
How is the Heart Genome Test Conducted?
The Heart Genome test involves collecting a blood sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis of genetic disease risk. The test can be done at any time without the need to fast or avoid food and drink before the blood draw. However, it typically takes about 4-6 weeks to receive the results.
How Often Should the Heart Genome Test be repeated?
Since 'genes' do not change, it is not necessary to repeat the test. If future advancements in testing technology occur, and the database changes, we can update the knowledge database and reassess disease risk based on the new data immediately.
Now that you know your risk of heart disease from the Heart Genome test, what should you do?
If genetic risk factors for heart disease are detected, two aspects of behavioral therapy should be considered as follows:
1. Adopting Healthy Behavior – Exercise regularly, get sufficient rest, and consume a healthful diet rich in plant-based foods, high-quality proteins, and high-fiber food. Combine with cardio exercises (to stimulate heart and vascular function) with resistance training (weight training) to control weight, maintain body shape, and build strength, as well as manage stress effectively. Even if the Heart Genome test indicates a genetic risk for heart disease, maintaining good behavioral habits can help mitigate the severity of factors contributing to the disease.
2. Bad behavior such as having irregular rest, not exercising, regularly consuming alcohol or smoking, experiencing high levels of stress, not managing weight, and usually eating sweet, fatty, or salty foods. If the Heart Genome test reveals a genetic risk, a doctor can diagnose and prescribe appropriate medication. Coupled with improving these behaviors, it can also reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

In summary, genes account for approximately 40% of the influence on heart disease, while the remaining 60% is determined by behavior, which plays a crucial role in our overall health. The Heart Genome test helps us understand our genetic risk for heart disease before it develops, serving as a key to unlocking health secrets from our genetics. By foreseeing the future of our heart health, we can plan our lifestyle appropriately. This proactive approach can delay the onset of heart disease in the future, and when combined with medical treatment, it can further reduce dangerous risks