Most people think about DNA like a blueprint that can tell you your chance of getting disease. But it’s not quite that simple.

DNA code is not like a light switch that turns on or off disease.

Why someone may develop disease is more often due to a complicated web of genetic and non-genetic health factors.

A variant, or single genetic difference is like one building block. By itself, it does not create a structure.

You need a construction plan, materials, and lots of labor.

Similarly, a disease will only present in your body when all the genetic and non-genetic factors assemble.

This is where your doctor or a genetic counselor can help make sense of your personal genetic results and help you lead the healthiest life possible.