Sequencing.com Launches Free Genetic Analysis To Assess Risk And Severity Of Coronavirus Infection For Each Individual

LOS ANGELES, March 19, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Sequencing.com, the world’s largest online marketplace for DNA services, today launched a first-of-its-kind free genetic analysis called the Coronavirus DNA Health Assessment that can quickly assess each user’s individual risk of coronavirus infection and the likely severity of reaction to the virus, including the risks of serious illness or death.

⁠Dr. Brandon Colby, Founder of Sequencing.com, said, “The coronavirus outbreak is not the first public health crisis our global society has faced in recent decades, but for the first time ever, through our Coronavirus DNA Health Report, genetic diagnostics and analysis are available that enable each individual to determine his or her likely level of infection risk and the severity of outcomes for the infected. From there, our Coronavirus DNA Health Report provides specific lifestyle and health insights that maximize prevention and preparedness.”

The analysis behind the Coronavirus DNA Health Assessment is based on peer-reviewed, published research on coronavirus. Though preliminary, that body of research has identified specific genetic markers in a portion of the infected population that are associated with susceptibility to coronavirus infection as well as the potential impact upon health if infected.

The Coronavirus DNA Health Report Provides Actionable Guidance

Aside from evaluating users’ coronavirus risks, the Coronavirus DNA Health Report delivers personalized, actionable guidance based on each person’s DNA. A person who the Coronavirus DNA Health Report indicates may have a greater risk of a severe infection would be armed with vital information to take proactive, preventive measures. Higher risk individuals, for example, could be more aggressive about social distancing and could also ensure any medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, are closely monitored and well-controlled.

“For anyone who may come in contact with the virus, knowing whether they are at risk for a severe infection can be a crucial piece of information that empowers them to make decisions on how to best protect themselves,” Dr. Colby said. “Sometimes even the smallest lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on a person’s wellbeing.”

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Interested in learning more about the unique DNA analysis to predict risk of COVID-19 severity? Dr. Colby discusses the science behind the Coronavirus DNA Health Assessment in his blog post Your DNA and COVID-19.