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We are all different. Some of these differences are due to our genes. Our genes can influence whether we are prone to cardiovascular disease or cancer and how we tolerate certain medications. Genetic testing can provide clarity.

Spiral-shaped DNA carries our genetic information. All of our inheritable information is stored in our genome. It influences our appearance, such as our eye and hair color or our physique. But that's not all. It also influences our health. Certain gene variants or defects can cause or contribute to diseases. Depending on genetic predisposition, medications can be more or less effective in a patient. Similarly, medications can cause more or fewer side effects. Genetic medicine is therefore used not only in the field of prevention, but also in pain therapy and anesthesia.

Our health is determined by our inherent differences in combination with our lifestyle and environment. By combining and analyzing information about our genetic makeup with other clinical and diagnostic information, patterns can be identified. These help to

• determine our individual risk of developing diseases,
• detect cardiovascular disease earlier,
• the most effective measures to improve our health – whether through medication, lifestyle changes, or simple dietary adjustments.

The concept of personalized medicine is not new. Throughout the history of medicine, doctors have always worked to develop care tailored to individual health needs. However, it has never before been possible to predict how an individual body will respond to specific interventions or to determine who among us is at risk of developing a disease. Today, new opportunities are emerging as we bring together innovative approaches such as whole genome sequencing, data and informatics, and wearable technology*. This combination is enabling us to enter an era of truly personalized care.

Away from the scattergun approach

Complementing traditional approaches to medicine, genetic medicine looks at a person's individual genetic makeup and tailors medical treatment accordingly.

In diagnostics, genetic medicine has the advantage of identifying risks for diseases before they break out. Early preventive measures can help to avoid a disease altogether or at least delay its onset. In treatment, genetic medicine has the advantage that therapies and medications that have no effect or cause significant side effects based on a person's genetic disposition can be avoided from the outset and replaced with effective therapies.

Identifying genetic causes of diseases

Genetic testing reveals genetic predispositions and differences.

For example, if several family members are affected by cancer at an early stage of life, genetic testing may be advisable. This is particularly important when preventive measures are possible: for carriers of cancer genes – BRCA1 and 2 mutations in breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer – in the form of frequent screening or other measures. But cystic fibrosis, various muscle and metabolic diseases, and cardiovascular diseases (including high blood pressure) can also have genetic causes.

Prof. Dr. med. Thomas D. Szucs,
Specialist in prevention and pharmaceutical medicine,
Co-Director Hirslanden Precise

Personalized medicine is about offering patients tailored diagnostics and therapy.

How does genetic counseling and testing at Hirslanden Precise work?

1. Initial consultation between the treating physician or Precise expert and the patient to discuss panel selection and explain rights. At the end of the consultation, a written consent form is signed and a blood sample is taken. A request for cost coverage can then be submitted.
2. Genetic analysis, including evaluation in the Precise laboratory and preparation of a clinically oriented report.
3. Second consultation between the treating physician or Precise expert and the patient to discuss the findings, including how they fit into the overall treatment process and discussion of appropriate preventive measures and/or treatment options.

The Klinik im Hof strives to provide its customers with access to genetic medicine. A new service offering genetic counseling and testing is now available.

Would you like to learn more about genetic medicine?

Prof. Dr. med Thomas D. Szucs will be speaking on the following evenings at Hof Weissbad:
Wednesday, May 4, 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 9, 5:30 p.m.

There is a package deal for the lectures that includes the first genetic consultation at the clinic in the courtyard.
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Learn more about genetic medicine: www.hirslanden.ch/precise

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* Wearables are small, connected computer systems that you wear directly on your body. Widely used products include fitness trackers that continuously monitor your training and certain body data. These also include sports watches and smartwatches with sports functions. The small wristbands or watches, which you hardly notice on your wrist, provide you with information on sleep quality, heart rate, distance covered during training, duration of sports sessions, and calorie consumption.