This World DNA Day, learn about the power of genetic screening

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of Medcan’s Enhanced Genetic Screening Program. As the first company in Canada to offer proactive genetic screening, we are incredibly proud of this achievement. 

Over the past two decades, we have built one of the largest genetics teams in Canada outside of a hospital setting. Our team has helped thousands of clients with proactive genetic screening, contributed to the Canadian Personal Genome Project, and participated in numerous key research initiatives to help advance the field of genetics. 

The Power of Genetic Screening 

We are passionate about genetic screening because it is a powerful avenue for personalized, proactive health care. Our own Jessica Gu and Dr. Lea Velsher co-authored groundbreaking research showing that one in six individuals  who undergo genetic testing will discover something significant—often changing the course of their health care.  

While genes are never the whole picture—lifestyle and environment also play crucial roles—they can unlock information about your health that may otherwise remain unknown. Genetic testing can assess your risk for hundreds of health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. It can also inform how medications may or may not work for you and guide family planning decisions. These insights can lead to proactive lifestyle changes, preventive medical treatments, or further diagnostic testing. 

Live Well, For Life: One Couple’s Experience with Genetic Screening 

While planning for their future, a couple chose Medcan’s Enhanced Proactive Genetic Screening and Pre-Pregnancy Genetic Screening to better understand their health and potential risks for their children.  

During their testing, one partner uncovered a hidden mutation linked to heart structure issues, allowing them to pursue preventive care and help reduce potential complications. The other partner discovered a previously unknown melanoma-related mutation, prompting regular skin checks and early detection strategies.  

Throughout the process, the couple also discovered they were not carriers for the same genetic conditions, which reassured them about their future children’s health. This clarity on genetic risks helped them make more informed decisions regarding family planning, knowing they could take preventive measures and address any health concerns early on. 

A Closer Look at Enhanced Proactive Genetic Screening 

Medcan’s Enhanced Proactive Genetic Screening service can help you identify the health risks inherent in your genetic information. With a simple blood draw, more than 160 genes are analyzed to determine your inherited risk for 45 health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease, and more. The Enhanced Proactive Genetic Screening includes comprehensive cancer prevention and heart health genetic screening along with screenings for over 40 other health conditions such as cancer, respiratory disease, and more. 

Explore Genetic Screening with Medcan 

If you are interested in exploring genetic screening, we are here to help. With solutions ranging from Whole Genome Sequencing to Medication Effectiveness Screening, Pre-Pregnancy Genetic Screening and Proactive Genetic Screening, we have options for a wide variety of needs. 

Our team of genetic counsellors can help you understand if genetic screening is right for you and guide you through the process. And if you have a dedicated Medcan physician, they will work with you to integrate genetic insights into your personalized care plan. 

We are here to help you on your journey to live well, for life. To learn more about how genetic testing can support your health goals, contact us to book an appointment with a Medcan genetic counsellor at medcan.com/enhanced-genetic-screening/