Your genes may tell part of your health story, but your lifestyle and environment can reveal even more about how your body ages. St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City is highlighting Epigenetic Testing, an emerging approach that provides insights into biological aging and how everyday factors may influence overall health. The test aims to help individuals and their physicians better understand health patterns and make more informed decisions about wellness.
Understanding the Science Behind Epigenetic Testing
Unlike traditional genetic testing, which examines DNA sequences, epigenetic testing looks at changes in how genes are regulated without changing the underlying DNA sequence. These changes may be influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors, including diet, physical activity, stress, and other daily habits. By examining epigenetic patterns, the test can provide insights into biological aging and how the body may be responding to different influences.
Connecting Lifestyle Choices to Biological Aging
Lifestyle and environmental factors can influence epigenetic patterns associated with the aging process. Understanding these changes may help individuals gain a better perspective on how their daily habits relate to their overall health. St. Luke’s emphasizes the importance of discussing test results with trained wellness physicians, who can help interpret the findings alongside established clinical assessments.
Supporting More Informed Preventive Healthcare
St. Luke’s Medical Center encourages individuals to ask about adding Epigenetic Testing to their annual wellness checkups. Through this approach, patients may gain additional information to support conversations with their physicians about health and wellness. However, epigenetic testing remains an emerging approach, and its results should not replace established medical evaluations or professional clinical advice.
