Common medicines may not work for some people based on their DNA, experts find
The trial saw 2,200 adults undergo whole genome sequencing to analyse how their individual DNA responds to the likes of antibiotics and over the counter painkillers.
1
A staggering 99 per cent showed a genetic variant that affects their sensitivity to certain medicines.
This could mean some drugs, including over the counter, everyday painkillers, antibiotics and other prescription medications, won't work for some people based on their individual DNA.
The blood test, part of Bupa's My Genomic Health scheme, also looked their genetic risk of developing 36 preventable diseases including cancers, heart conditions and type 2 diabetes.
It found 91 per cent of participants were found to be at risk of developing a disease with genetic and lifestyle risk factors, such as fatty liver disease, breast cancer and certain heart diseases.
While 73 per cent had multiple genetic variants that put them at raised risk of developing a condition that could be prevented or detected early, leading to better health outcomes, including the likes of high cholesterol, skin cancer and type 2 diabetes.
And 49 per cent were found to be carriers of a genetic variant that could lead to raised risk of certain condition in future generations.
Following the successful pilot, Medication Check can now be purchased through Bupa, and will also be available to more than three million its customers as part of its workplace health scheme.
A saliva test will establish what medications are most likely to be effective, those with increased risk of adverse side effects, or ones that won't work for them at all.
Dr Rebecca Rohrer, clinical innovation and genomics director for Bupa, said: 'We've long known that most medications only work for 30-50 per cent of the population.
'However, this pilot has highlighted just how significantly individual genomes impact the effectiveness of medications in treating conditions.
Beware 3 of the most dangerous medicines in the world - including one found in almost EVERY home
'With more than half of us regularly taking a prescription medication and an increasing number affected by a chronic condition, it's crucial that people are prescribed the right medicine from the start, tailored to their unique genetic makeup.
'In the longer term, genomics is key to early detection and even preventing some illnesses altogether.'
After completing the at-home medication check, patients will be offered a GP consultation with the healthcare provider to review any medication identified in their genetic tests.
It comes as Bupa is about to introduce two new products to its My Genomic Health suite later this year, that will help to prevent or detect illness earlier.
The DNA Health Check will give people early warning of an increased genetic risks of four different conditions - breast cancer, prostate cancer, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
While the Advanced DNA Health Check will combine insights from medication, disease risk, carrier status and traits, and will look at the genetic risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, metabolic disease and 10 types of cancer.
Carlos Jaureguizar, CEO for Bupa Global, India & UK, said: 'Whole genomic sequencing is fundamentally changing our approach to healthcare, pivoting from treatment to prevention.
'It has the power to become a health passport that people can reference throughout their lives.
'We firmly believe genomics is the path to health innovation and prevention, reducing the nation's health burden and giving people personalised knowledge of their own genomic profile to live well for longer.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Independent
30 minutes ago
- The Independent
Can this £350 at-home microneedling treatment really give you smoother, tighter skin?
When the likes of Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston swear by a cosmetic treatment for its skin-smoothing and tightening results, a beauty buzz inevitably follows. That's just what happened with radio frequency (RF) microneedling. The non-surgical treatment is essentially two skin -rejuvenating technologies (microneedling and radiofrequency therapy) combined. It involves an in-clinic aesthetic practitioner using a device on the skin that creates micro-wounds with tiny needles, while also heating the skin with radio waves to trigger the healing response. Essentially, the treatment boosts the production of collagen and elastin – the proteins that smooth, strengthen and firm our complexions. It has become an A-lister go-to for its age-defying effectiveness, resurfacing and tightening the complexion. But before you book a session at your nearest salon, there are some drawbacks. Primarily, it's very expensive – just one session can set you back hundreds of pounds. It's not painless, either, and there are side effects such as dryness, redness and swelling. So I was fascinated – and frankly, a little alarmed – when I heard beauty device specialist CurrentBody claimed to have packaged this tech into an at-home treatment. On top of that, they claim it comes without any of the in-salon downsides. There was only one thing to do: I simply had to try it for myself. How I tested CurrentBody recommends performing the RF microneedling treatment once a week for eight weeks, so that's exactly what I did. Every Sunday, I used the device on the signs of ageing that bother me the most. I applied the forehead microneedling patch on my deep frown line between my eyebrows, and the eye microneedling patch to my puffy under-eye area. I left them on for more than two hours (as recommended) before using the radiofrequency device on each area, as well as on my sagging jawline. During testing, I assessed the device on the following criteria: Ease of use: I assessed ease of operation and how long it took to use the device per session. Results: I considered whether the treatment delivered noticeable improvements in the appearance of my skin. Value for money: At £350, the treatment is an investment, so I also considered whether the results justify the splurge. Why you can trust IndyBest reviews Sabine Wiesel is a beauty journalist in her 40s who specialises in mature and anti-ageing skincare and beauty products. In her career, she's reviewed everything from the best neck creams to retinol eye creams to find the products that actually make an impact on fine lines. On top of that, she discusses these treatments with dermatologists and aestheticians for their expert insights and advice.
The Independent
30 minutes ago
- The Independent
Silentnight airmax mattress topper review: An affordable upgrade for beds past their best
If you find you're tossing and turning at night, and finding it hard to pick between the suffocating heat of your duvet and the chilly air without it, here's a surprising solution. Silentnight has created a mattress topper that helps air circulate underneath you while you sleep. Designed to bring fresh air in underneath you thanks to mesh sides, the Silentnight airmax should keep your temperature just right all night long. The idea of a mattress topper is basically to breathe new life into your mattress. Whether your mattress is a bit tired or you've picked up a new ache that seems worse when you wake up, a topper may help, and it's a whole lot cheaper than replacing your mattress wholesale. But those are big claims, and the hypoallergenic Silentnight airmax even claims to rejuvenate your existing mattress. Can it actually make that much of a difference? How I tested I tested the Silentnight airmax mattress topper in super kingsize. I trialled it for more than four weeks, totalling more than 200 hours of sleep. Over the years, I've tested a multitude of duvets, pillows and mattress toppers, so I know the exactly what makes for a good night's sleep. When testing this mattress topper, I considered some key factors: Comfort: Comfort is vital for sleep products. I wanted to know if it levelled up my mattress, rather than just acting as a gimmick. And ultimately, I wanted to know if I'd sleep any better than normal Whether it lives up to its claims: I paid close attention to whether I remained temperate all night long, and whether the mesh sides worked their magic. Many products do not live up to expectations If it's worth the money: The Silentnight airmax mattress topper certainly isn't one of the most expensive on the market, but there's no use in spending money on things we don't need. When testing out the mattress topper, I made sure that it enhanced my sleep. Why you can trust IndyBest reviews Zoë Phillimore is a journalist and editor who has worked with IndyBest since 2021. She has written extensively on all things family life and sleep, covering everything from the best mattresses for children and duvets to sleep aids. Zoë has developed a keen eye for spotting the very best, paying meticulous attention to quality materials, affordability and durability.
The Sun
31 minutes ago
- The Sun
Chomping on tomatoes & doing it upside down – 14 of the easiest ways to climax tonight & celebrate National Orgasm Day
DOES your sex life need an overhaul? National Orgasm day is here and with it, we're sharing some of the best expert-approved tips. It's a day to fully embrace pleasure, whether you're exploring solo or sharing intimacy with a partner. And it's not just about feeling good - the benefits of an orgasm extend to your overall health and happiness. Think improved mood, deeper sleep, and even a healthier heart. Sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight is a big proponent of marking the day. "Why not give your pleasure a little upgrade?' she asks. Ready to elevate your experience? Annabelle shares her top 14 easy ways to reach climax tonight and make the most of National Orgasm Day. Sink your teeth into a tomato Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps to improve blood flow, which is crucial for arousal. Better circulation - better sensitivity. Plus, tomatoes help regulate testosterone levels in all genders, which can boost libido. Who knew a salad could help your sex life? Keep your socks on This one's backed by science! Cold feet can actually block your orgasm. A study by the University of Groningen in the Netherlands found that warm feet helped 80% of couples when it came to reaching climax. Why? Well, discomfort from cold feet pulls your brain out of the moment…nothing ruins the moment more than wishing you had a blanket. Try temperature play with ice cubes On the other hand cold constricts blood vessels, which can make your skin extra sensitive when warmed again, this in turn helps to intensify pleasure. Run an ice cube over yours or your partner's thighs, neck, or nipples, then switch to warm hands or your mouth to heighten arousal. Do the 'Bridge Pose' before bed This simple yoga pose (lie on your back, knees bent, hips lifted) helps to boosts pelvic circulation and strengthens pelvic floor muscles - the same ones used during orgasm. Over time, this can lead to stronger, more controlled climaxes. Plus, it opens the hips, helping you to feel more comfortable and capable in a variety of positions. Use lube - even if you think you don't need it 5 Even if you're naturally lubricated, adding a good quality lube reduces friction and heightens sensitivity, especially if you opt for a warming or tingling one. Studies show that people who use lubricant are more likely to report enjoyable, orgasmic sex. Silicone-based lube lasts longer, but water-based is great if you're including toys in your play. Slip into erotic audio Apps like Dipsea, Ferly, and Quinn offer steamy, narrated fantasies designed to turn you on using just your ears. It's proven (and fun!) way to mentally escape and stimulate arousal. Erotic audio engages the brain's limbic system, responsible for emotion and sexual excitement. Plus, unlike reading erotica, it keeps your hands free for play. Tick off your to-do list Few things kill desire faster than mental clutter. Studies show that cognitive distraction; work, chores, to do lists etc make it harder to climax. Clearing your head can help your body stay in the moment. Remember, sex doesn't always start in the bedroom. Do a 5-minute orgasm meditation Mindfulness has been shown to increase sexual satisfaction and intensity of orgasm. By focusing on what's happening to your body and how it's making you feel in the moment, you train yourself to stay present. This can help with climax control and awareness. A few minutes of calm could lead to a much more explosive finish. 5 Doggy - but make it downward Standard doggy-style is great for deep penetration, but lowering your chest to the bed a.k.a. 'downward doggy' creates a sharper angle that stimulates the A-spot - a lesser-known erogenous zone that's found a little deeper inside the vaginal, near the cervix. Think of it as the upstairs neighbour of the G-spot. Do it upside down Inverting your body during sex or masturbation (think of yourself lying off the bed or doing a legs-up positions) helps to increase blood flow to the pelvic area and brain, potentially intensifying sensation. Switching up angles can also help to stimulate rarely touched nerve endings too. Get baking Certain scents have been shown to boost arousal. One study from the 'Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation' in Chicago found that vanilla, cinnamon, and even pumpkin can help boost your libido by increasing blood flow. Vanilla showed that blood flow to the genitals increased by 9%, pumpkin pie by 11% in women, while cinnamon rolls boosted male arousal by 25%. So, grab a pinny and warm up the oven because better sex is only a traybake away. Try a pinch of salt Salt boosts dopamine levels which is the 'pleasure' neurotransmitter. A tiny pre-romp salty snack (try olives, salted dark chocolate, or even crisps) might enhance your brain's reward response. Take yourself to the edge 5 Edging (bringing yourself close to climax, then stopping before you tip over) builds up tension in the pelvic muscles. When you finally let go, it leads to a more intense release. It's also linked to better orgasm control and longer-lasting pleasure. Talk dirty - even to yourself Much like listening to audio erotica verbal stimulation can enhance arousal by engaging your imagination as it activates parts of the brain linked to sexual desire. If you're solo, try narrating what you're doing to yourself, or engage in a fantasy little role play. If you're with someone try getting a little verbal. What your sexual fantasies say about you By Emma Kenny, a TV presenter and psychologist Raucous Role Play: If your partner enjoys dressing up for fun, it shows creativity and a desire to keep things exciting. However, it might signal that he struggles with responsibility. Multi-Partner Fantasies: Craving variety doesn't always mean he wants to cheat. However, it could indicate deeper feelings of unfulfillment. Power & Control: A little dominance is normal, but if it's always about control, it may hide insecurities. Adventure: Men seeking thrills may push boundaries, so be sure your comfort zone is respected. Passion: If he's romantic, he's emotionally tuned in—though occasionally avoiding tough conversations. Flexibility: Openness to new experiences is great, but constant novelty-seeking could mean avoiding emotional connection. Red Flag: If control is his ultimate fantasy, it may signal a deeper struggle with power dynamics.
