Insights
Read more about diseases here and start making changes to your lifestyle today based on your assessment
Organic Diseases
Age-related Macular Degeneration
Definition:
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common disease which affects your vision, usually seen to initially affect people in their 50s and 60s. There are different forms of macular degeneration, wet and dry. Dry AMD is when your vision deteriorates over a long timespan (years) whereas wet AMD is characterized as developing quickly over a few weeks or months. The exact causes of macular degeneration are unknown, however it has been linked to being overweight, smoking, high blood pressure and genetically heritable factors.
Some symptoms for AMD are:
- Blurred vision
- Distortion of straight lines
- Difficulty reading
- Difficulty seeing details in low lights
- Sensitivity to glare
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- AREDS and AREDS2 are supplements developed for age related eye diseases and have been shown to have protective benefits in preventing the progression of AMD.
- Maintaining healthy weight is important as a decrease of waist-to-hip ratio of 3% or more has been associated with a 29% decrease in odds of developing AMD. This effect was even stronger in people who were intitially obese resuting in an odds decrease of 59%.
- Quit smoking as smoking a pack a day has been associated with a 55% increase in odds of developing AMD.
Asthma
Definition:
Asthma is a long-term inflammation of the lungs, resulting in narrowing airways, swelling and increased production of mucus. This results in difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. There is no known cure for asthma, however, symptoms can be controlled. Depending on the individual, the symptoms might be worse at night or with exercise.
Some symptoms for Asthma are:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Chest tightness
- Coughing or wheezing attacks
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Exercising regularly can improve asthma control in adults
- Avoid indoor and outdoor air pollution, as it can be a significant trigger for adult asthma.
- Quitting smoking is important as it will reduce general lung function as well as increase the risk of adult asthma.
- Getting tested for allergies gives you deeper insight, as asthma can arise from a variety of reasons. Defining probable reasons is important in future treatment.
Atopic Dermatitis
Definition:
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a condition where skin becomes itchy and red resulting from long-term inflammation. The condition usually occurs in childhood, however, it can occur at any age. The specific causes for atopic dermatitis are unknown and there is no cure for the condition, but symptoms can be treated and proper self care can prevent new outbreaks.
Some symptoms for Atopic Dermatitis are:
- Itching
- Red patches on skin
- Dry skin
- Small bumps on skin
- Scaly skin
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Get tested for allergies as allergies are the primary reason for atopic dermatitis.
- Using moisturizing cream daily has been associated with a 50% decreased risk of developing atopic dermatitis.
- Avoid showering in hard water as hard water increases deposits of sodium lauryl sulfate from soap. These deposits increase water loss through the skin and can cause irritation. Consider using a water filter if you live in an area with hard water.
Atrial Fibrillation
Definition:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) refers to an abnormal heart rhythm, also known as arrhythmia. It is more specifically characterized as a rapid and irregular beating of the atrial chambers in the heart. Atrial fibrillation increases your risk of strokes as well as heart failure and other heart-related disorders.
Some symptoms for Atrial Fibrillation are:
- Sensations of racing or irregular heart beat
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Inability to exercise
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Decreasing alcohol consumption is important as high intake is associated with a 34% increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
- Maintain a healthy sleeping schedule. Sleeping less than 6 hours a night has been associated with a 42% increased risk of atrial fibrillation. Sleeping more than 8 hours a night has been associated with a 13% increased risk.
- Maintain a healthy body weight as a weight gain of 5% has been associated with a 13% increased risk of atrial fibrillation.
- Consider doing yoga as it has been demonstrated to decrease atrial fibrillation risk by almost 24%.
- Consume food containing natural antioxidants such as:
- Olive oil
- Nuts
- Fruits
- Vegetables
Breast Cancer
Definition:
There are two common types of breast cancer. Non-invasive breast cancer and invasive breast cancer. Non-invasive breast cancer does not show up as a lump, but will be detected in a mammogram, whereas invasive breast cancer, the most common form, will be felt as a lump in the breast. If you find that you have SNPs predisposing you to get breast cancer, you should have a higher motivation to get a mammogram.
Some symptoms of Breast Cancer are:
- Change of size in one or both breasts
- Discharge from either of your nipples
- A lump in your armpits
- Dimpling on the skin of your breast
- A rash around your nipple or a change in the appearance of your nipple.
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Breastfeeding your children reduces your risk of developing breast cancer. A 14% reduction of risk for breast cancer has been observed in women who have breastfed compared to women who have not.
- Regularly self-examine for breast cancer as a large percentage of breast cancers are discovered by the patients themselves.
- Reduce alcohol intake as it can increase the risk of breast cancer through various mechanisms and interactions.
- In post-menopausal women with a diet high in polyunsaturated fatty acids have a 22% increased risk of developing breast cancer.
- Increased intake of soyfoods might be beneficial as high intake has been associated with a 25% decreased risk of developing breast cancer.
- Isoflavone, which is present in beans and other legumes, have been associated with a 20% decreased risk of developing breast cancer.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Definition:
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition causing numbness, tingling and pain in the arm and hand. The condition is the result of the median nerve, one of the major nerves in the hand, being compressed at the wrist. Having a regular activity that involves repetitive finger activity, can increase your risk of developing the syndrome. The symptoms might increase in severity over time, if left untreated, and can result in permanent nerve damage. For this reason, early diagnosis is important.
Some symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrom are:
- Tingling in fingers
- Pain in fingers
- Decreased feeling in fingertips
- Difficulty using the hand for small tasks
- Dropping objects
- Weakness in hand
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Doing yoga has shown to decrease pain in people with carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Perform nerve gliding exercises as it has been shown to decrease pain to a point where fewer patients feel like they need surgery.
- Make sure to reach the recommended daily intake of vitamin D, as vitamin D deficiency is significantly more prevalent in people with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Coronary Artery Disease
Definition:
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common heart disease. It is the result of your coronary arteries becoming damaged or diseased due to buildup of plaques, which are cholesterol-containing deposits. The buildup of plaques can result in narrowing and blockage of your arteries, referred to as atherosclerosis, which is the most common cause of CAD. When the arteries supplying your heart with oxygen and nutrients become narrowed or blocked, the heart can cease to function properly.
Some symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease are:
- Chest pain
- Pressure or tightness in your chest
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme fatigue
- Pain in arms or shoulders
- Dizziness
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Increase intake of olive oil as it has been implicated in decreasing inflammatory biomarkers and molecules involved in the development of atherosclerosis.
- Increase consumption of nuts, especially peanuts and walnuts (unsalted) as it has been associated with a 15% to 23% lower risk of CAD.
- Increase intake of dietary fiber as it has been associated with a reduction of LDL-cholesterol.
- Stay physically active as it will help prevent CAD due to improvement of lipid concentrations and blood pressure.
- Quit smoking. Active smoking and secondhand smoke determine 30% of CAD mortality.
- Maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity as it has a strong influence on the development of atherosclerosis.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Definition:
Frontotemporal dementia is a term including several types of brain disorders, affecting primarily the frontal and temporal lobe of the brain. These types of dementia are often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s or psychiatric disorders. Frontotemporal dementia often arises earlier than Alzheimer’s around the 40’s compared to around the 60’s with Alzheimer’s.
Some symptoms for Frontotemporal Dementia are:
- Loss of interpersonal skills
- Inappropriate social behaviour
- Loss of inhibition
- Lack of judgment
- Decline in personal hygiene
- Difficulty understanding written and spoken language
- Tremor
- Muscle spasms
- Muscle weakness
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Keeping mentally active with intellectual activities e.g. reading and playing games daily has been associated with a lower risk of developing dementia.
- If you experience hearing impairment, it is important to use hearing aids. People with hearing loss are at increased risk of dementia, but this risk is mitigated by use of hearing aids.
- Aim for a systolic blood pressure below 130 mm Hg. People with a systolic blood pressure higher than this have 29% higher risk of developing dementia.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can damage the brain in multiple ways.
- Quit smoking as quitting will significantly decrease your risk of developing dementia
- Engage in social activities. Especially in later life. This has been associated with improved cognitive function.
Gliomas
Definition:
Gliomas are types of tumors that occur in the brain and spinal cord, beginning in the glial cells that surround nerve cells. Depending on what type of glial cell develops into the tumor, it will be classified as either astrocytomas, ependymomas and oligodendrogliomas. Correct classification of the type of glioma is important for treatment.
Some symptoms for Gliomas are:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Irritability
- Difficulty with balance
- Incontinence
- Vision problems
- Speech difficulties
- Seizures
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Increase intake of pro-vitamin A (found in carrots and spinach), as intake of this has been associated with a 40-50% decrease in odds of developing gliomas compared to people with no intake.
- If female, increase intake of calcium (found in dairy product, cabbage and broccoli) as it has been shown to have a potentially protective effect against gliomas.
- Increase intake of phytoestrogens (found in soy, cereal and legumes) as it has been shown to decrease the odds of developing gliomas. Most significant effect was seen for daidzein, which is found in soybeans and other legumes.
Gout
Definition:
Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden attacks of painful, red and tender swelling in one or more joints, most often occuring in the big toe. It is developed due to persistently elevated levels of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia) and prevention of the disease is therefore linked to stabilizing uric acid levels in the blood. Uric acid elevation usually occurs due to a combination of diet, other health problems and genetic factors.
Some symptoms for Gout are:
- Inflammation and redness in the affected joint
- Limited range of motion in the affected joint
- Intense pain in the affected join, usually the big toe
- Discomfort in the affected join lingering after an attack
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Drink plenty of water to lower uric acid levels, especially while exercising.
- Maintaining healthy weight is important as obesity and low levels of activity has been consistently associated with higher uric acid levels.
- Decrease alcohol intake as alcohol increases uric acid levels.
- Increased intake of dairy products has been associated with lower levels of uric acid.
- Decreased intake of meat and seafood might be beneficial in decreasing uric acid levels.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Definition:
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term covering chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. This includes Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by inflammation and the formation of ulcers along the lining of the large intestine and rectum. Crohn’s disease involves inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, often in the deeper layers.
Some symptoms for Inflammatory Bowel Disease are:
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Kidney Stone
Definition:
Kidney stones are deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. Kidney stones have many causes including certain supplements, medications, diet and medical conditions. Recognising kidney stones early is important to avoid causing permanent damage, however, passing of the kidney stones is painful nonetheless. The best way to deal with kidney stones is preventative measures taken after the one has already had a specific type of kidney stones. The preventative measures vary depending on the type. There are four types of kidney stones; calcium stones, struvite stones, uric acid stones and cystine stones.
Some symptoms for Kidney Stones are:
- Sharp pain below the ribs
- Pain or burning sensation while urinating
- Pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin
- Pain fluctuating in intensity
- Pain coming in waves
- Foul smelling urine
- Nausea
- Frequent need to urinate
- Discolored urine
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Calcium stones
- Struvite stones
- Uric acid stones
- Cysteine stones
Lung Cancer
Definition:
There are two different types of lung cancer. Small-cell lung cancer is the least common type and spreads faster than non-small-cell lung cancer. The most common form is non-small-cell lung cancer, which consists of three different subtypes, depending on the cancer cells. Lung cancer usually affects older people, however, knowing that you have SNPs predisposing you to developing lung cancer, should motivate you to stop smoking and to avoid areas with high air pollution. There are usually no early signs of lung cancer, but some symptoms will eventually develop.
Some symptoms for Lung Cancer are:
- A persistent cough
- Coughing up blood
- Persistent breathlessness
- Unexplained tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain when coughing or breathing
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Quit smoking as tobacco smoking causes 9 out of 10 lung cancer cases in men and 8 out of 10 in women.
- Many airborne substances might be carcinogenic and thereby increase your risk of lung cancer. Be sure to wear proper protection if you are working with airborne substances like:
- Asbestos
- Arsenic
- Chromium
- Nickel
- Beryllium
- Cadmium
- Tar
- Soot
Malignant Melanoma
Definition:
Malignant melanoma, also referred to as simply melanoma, is a skin cancer developing from the pigment producing cells in the skin known as melanocytes. Melanocytes produce melanin, which determines your skin colour. The exact reasons for the development of melanoma are unclear, however, strong exposure to UV radiation will increase the chance of development.
Some symptoms of Malignant Melanoma are:
- A change in an existing mole
- Development of a new pigmented or unusual looking growth on the skin
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Unexplained pain
- Tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Avoid using sunbeds as the UV radiation causes DNA damage, increasing risk of developing malignant melanoma.
- If light skinned, ingesting daily oral supplements of vitamin D (1000 IU) is recommended to avoid excessive sun exposure.
- ABCDE: Regularly self examine for lesions that:
- Are Asymmetric
- Has irregular Borders
- Has Colour variation
- A Diameter equal to or above 6mm
- Evolves over time
Multiple Sclerosis
Definition:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition, where something goes wrong in the immune system, causing it to attack healthy parts of your body. In the case of MS, the immune system attacks the spinal cord, the brain and the nervous system. The cause for MS is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. MS is more common in regions further from the equator, which has led to the hypothesis that lack of vitamin D due to lack of sunlight might play a role in the development of the disease. Making sure that you get the right amount of vitamin D might therefore be a preventative measure.
Some symptoms for Multiple Sclerosis are:
- Fatigue
- Difficulty walking
- Vision problems
- Numbness or tingling in different parts of the body
- Muscle stiffness and spasms
- Problems with balance and coordination
- Problems with thinking
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Make sure you get enough vitamin D. Low levels of vitamin D has been associated with increased risk of MS.
- Quit smoking as currently available evidence supports smoking as an independent risk factor for development of MS.
- There is no scientific evidence for a specific diet in preventing MS, however, there is sufficient evidence for the consumption of specific foods like fish, whole grain and low-fat foods.
Pancreatic Cancer
Definition:
Pancreatic cancer refers to several different types of cancer arising in the cells of the pancreas. The most common type of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Due to lack of symptoms in early stages, pancreatic cancer is often detected too late for curative treatment.
Some symptoms for Pancreatic Cancer are:
- Abdominal pain
- Unintended weight loss
- Itchy skin
- Yellowing of skin
- Jaundice
- Dark coloured urine
- Light coloured feces
- Diabetes
- Fatigue
- Blood clots
- Loss of appetite
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Reduce consumption of red meat and processed meat. Red meat has been associated with a 13% of pancreatic cancer risk in men, whereas consumption of 50g of processed meat a day has been associated with a 19% increased risk for any gender.
- Maintaining a healthy weight is important as obesity increases the risk of pancreatic cancer by 20%.
- Limit alcohol intake as high alcohol intake has been associated with a 15% increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. A high intake of strong liquor has been associated with a 43% increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
- Eat more vegetables and fruit as this has been associated with lower risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
- Quit smoking as smoking accounts for 25-29% of pancreatic cancer incidences.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Definition:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of female infertility. PCOS affects female hormone levels, resulting in higher than normal amounts of male hormones. Studies have shown that up to 70 percent of women with PCOS have not been diagnosed . Birth control pills and diabetes drugs can help fix the hormone imbalance. Treatment plans should always be made in collaboration with your doctor.
Some symptoms for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome are:
- Irregular periods
- Excess hair growth
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Headaches
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
Prostate Cancer
Definition:
Prostate cancer is a cancer that occurs in the prostate, which is the small walnut-shaped gland in males, which produces the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer is often slow-growing, however many prostate cancers are more aggressive and can spread to other parts of the body. The survival rate in men with prostate cancer is greatly improved by early detection. Symptoms often first show in advanced cases of prostate cancer.
Some symptoms for Prostate Cancer are:
- Decreased urinary force
- Trouble urinating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Bone pain
- Unintended weight loss
- Erectile dysfunction
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Increase intake of vegetables, particularly cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower and cabbage. More than 28 servings of vegetables per week compared with less than 14 showed a decreased risk of 35%. 3 or more servings of cruciferous vegetables per week compared with less than 1 serving per week was associated with a 41% decreased risk of prostate cancer.
- Drink green tea. Japanese men who drank more than 5 cups of tea a day had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who drank less than 1 cup per day.
- Higher ejaculation frequencies, more than 21 times per month compared to 4-7 times per month, has been associated with a lower risk of developing prostate cancer at all ages.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Definition:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is chronic inflammation of your joints which can potentially affect the skin, lungs, eyes, heart and blood vessels as well. The inflammation is primarily present in the lining of the joints, potentially leading to joint deformity and bone erosion.
Some symptoms for Rheumatoid Arthritis are:
- Swollen joints
- Joint stiffness which is usually worse in the mornings or after general inactivity.
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
Be aware that these symptoms can appear periodically and then disappear again.
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Quit smoking as many studies have shown an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis in smokers.
- Increase intake of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (e.g. fish). Consistent long-term consumption of more than 1 serving of fish per week, compared to less than 1 serving showed a 29% decreased risk of developing RA.
- If diagnosed with RA, it is recommended to do moderate or high intensity workouts instead of low intensity workouts, since it has been shown to have a better effect on muscle strength in RA.
Type II Diabetes
Definition:
Type II diabetes is a disease characterized by increased blood sugar levels. This is due to a lowered sensitivity of the cells towards insulin. Because of the low insulin sensitivity, the pancreas can not produce enough insulin for the cells. The increased blood sugar levels
often develop over time, causing little to no symptoms. This can cause certain complications, since the increased blood sugar levels can damage organs like the kidneys, eye, nerves and blood vessels. The development of type II diabetes is a combination of heredity and lifestyle choices. If you discover that you have SNPs that might predispose you to type II diabetes you will have a good motivation to lead a healthier life, thinking more about your diet, limiting sugar and alcohol intake, quitting smoking and exercising regularly.
Some symptoms for Type II Diabetes are:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Unintended weight loss
- Increased hunger
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Lose weight. Research has shown that, if you’re obese, every kilogram you lose will reduce your risk of diabtes with 16%.
- Exercise regularly. 210 min/week of moderate-intensity or 150 min/week of high-intensity exercise is recommended as it will help in decreasing body weight as well as promotion of insulin sensitivity.
- Drink water as your primary beverage. For each incremental serving of sugar sweetened beverage per day, risk of type 2 diabetes increases with 20%.
- Eat low-carb and high fiber. Following this diet has shown to decrease weight and insulin levels.
- Optimize vitamin D levels. Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to decrease risk of developing diabetes with 10% to 13%.
- Quit smoking. Research shows that smoking induces insulin resistance for both diabetics and non-diabetics.
- Drink coffee. Drink at least 250ml of coffee per day, as it has been shown to decrease odds of developing diabetes.
Mental Diseases
Depression
Definition:
Many people assume that depression is merely a feeling of sadness. This is not necessarily the case. Depression has many faces and can for example show itself in feelings of lifelessness, emptiness, apathy, anger and restlessness. Some people might feel that having depression would make you ‘weak’, but if left untreated it can become a serious health issue.
Some symptoms of Depression are:
- Feelings of helplessness
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Appetite or weight changes
- Sleep changes
- Anger
- Irritability
- Loss of energy
- Self-loathing
- Reckless behaviour
- Concentration problems
- Unexplained aches and pains
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights:
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Increase intake of:
- Vegetables
- Fish
- Legumes
- Olive oil
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Nuts
- Avoid intake of:
- Sausages
- Soft drinks
- Sweets
- Engage in physical exercise regularly as it has a significant positive influence on your brain. This can be attributed to mechanisms such as neurogenesis and increased cerebral blood flow.
- Exercising mindfulness has shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as improving general well-being through healthy emotional regulation.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Definition:
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia associated with an ongoing decline in brain functions like memory, thinking and mental abilities. Even though the condition is not fully understood yet, a number of things have been found to increase your risk of developing the disease. These include genetic factors, head injuries, smoking and obesity. Finding that you are genetically predisposed to developing Alzheimer’s should motivate you to stop smoking, live an active lifestyle and stop drinking alcohol.
Some symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease are:
- Confusion
- Difficulty planning
- Personality changes
- Hallucinations
- Problems with speech or language
If you experience these symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Actionable insights
Research has shown that the following measures can be taken:
- Exercising regularly has been associated with a 45% reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
- Reducing stress is important as stress has a significant influence on the brain structures involved in cognition and mental health.
- Meditation or doing yoga has been shown to significantly reduce stress and cortisol levels.