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My dad was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Lymphoma (CLL/SLL) just a few months after his 60th birthday. This type of cancer can transform into other types of cancer and is one of the four major cancers that affect the blood and bone marrow.

My dad is now 64 and we just recently found out he also has Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC).  About 10%-15% of lung cancers are small cell lung cancers. This type of lung cancer is aggressive and tends to spread quickly.

He is not the first one in our family with cancer. Knowing that cancer is running rampant throughout my family history, I jumped at the chance to have my DNA tested by 23andMe.

I’ve seen the shows on television about  “Finding Your Roots” and you’ve probably seen the celebrities that have done it – Barbara Walters, Martha Stewart, Kevin Bacon and Iron Man Robert Downey Jr. just to name a few.

What It Is 23andMe

23andMe is a confidential DNA analysis service that you can do in the comfort of your own home without going to the doctor or having your blood drawn.

Just a few milliliters of saliva is needed for the test and within 4-6 weeks you’ll be able to trace your ancestry, discover your origins, gain insight into your health, and connect with relatives.
Ancestry-
Reveal the magic in your DNA, and understand your ancestral history using:

• Relative Finder connects you with members who share DNA and ancestors with you.
• Map your Global Origins – uncover the heritage in your genes. Your unique Ancestry Painting reveals where your ancestors lived hundreds of years ago.
• Ancestral Lineages – Experts have traced the ancestral lineages of several well-known people. Find out if your DNA connects you to a select group of such celebrities, including Marie Antoinette, Thomas Jefferson, Warren Buffett and Bono.

Health-
Understand how your genes impact your health. Get results to a growing list of 249 diseases and conditions that covers:

• Carrier status (if your children may be at risk)
• Drug response (your body’s sensitivity to drugs)
• Disease risk (your risks based on your genes)

How It Works

1. Register your kit online.
2. Fill the enclosed container with saliva.
3. Close funnel. Screw on cap. Shake for 5 seconds.
4. Seal in the provided specimen bag.
5. Mail back the box.
6. Expect your results within six weeks.

My Results

23andMe provides over 240 health reports, so I obviously won’t discuss them all, but here are the top few.

My results found that I had an above average risk of breast cancer. I was not tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are the most common genetic risk factors for breast cancer. But it’s recommend that I see a doctor for further clinical genetic testing.

There were 4 higher-risk markers for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. I have slightly to moderately higher odds of developing CLL, just like my dad.

And slightly higher odds of developing Basal Cell Carcinoma – which is the most common cancer in the United States, with approximately 800,000 new cases every year.

I also found out something quite interesting – my Biological Age! Basically my age based on  how old my cells appear. I have shorter telomeres on average, which means my cells are equivalent to those of a person 3.91 years older than me. Sooo basically I have the body of a 30 year old! Nice.

I also found out I have 2.9% Neanderthal DNA. And I’m 99.7% European and only 0.1% Native American.

You’d think this service would cost a fortune. When 23andMe was founded, the price of the personal genetic service was $1,000 and over time they have been able to reduce it to $99, making it a widely available information tool. With over a quarter million members, 23andMe is the largest DNA-based ancestry service worldwide.

The results are not meant to diagnosis any conditions, but you can learn your risks based on your genes so you are aware and can watch for warning signs. And possibly take action to reduce your risks.

Disclaimer: I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.