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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about polygenic risk scores and how to interpret your results

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General QuestionsUnderstanding Your ResultsAccuracy & LimitationsComparison with Other ServicesPrivacy & DataMedical & Clinical Questions

Result Interpretation Guide

Your polygenic risk score represents your genetic predisposition compared to others in a reference population. Here is how to interpret your percentile:

Very Low Risk
0-20th percentile
Your genetic risk is lower than 80% of the reference population. This suggests below-average genetic predisposition, but does not eliminate risk entirely. Lifestyle factors and regular health screenings remain important.
Low Risk
20-40th percentile
Your genetic risk is lower than 60-80% of the reference population. You have somewhat reduced genetic risk, but standard preventive care recommendations still apply.
Average Risk
40-60th percentile
Your genetic risk is similar to the average person in the reference population. Follow standard health recommendations for your age and demographic.
Elevated Risk
60-80th percentile
Your genetic risk is higher than 60-80% of the reference population. Consider discussing with your healthcare provider whether enhanced screening or lifestyle modifications might be beneficial.
High Risk
80-100th percentile
Your genetic risk is higher than 80% of the reference population. This may warrant discussion with a healthcare provider about personalized prevention strategies or enhanced screening protocols.

Important Context

  • Risk categories are based on population distributions and represent relative, not absolute, risk
  • A "high risk" score does not mean you will develop the condition
  • A "low risk" score does not guarantee you will not develop the condition
  • Genetic risk is just one factor; lifestyle, environment, and other factors play crucial roles

General Questions

Basic information about polygenic risk scores and how they work

A Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) is a numerical estimate of your genetic predisposition to a particular trait or disease. Unlike tests for single-gene mutations (like BRCA1/2 for breast cancer), PRS combine the effects of many genetic variants across your genome, each contributing a small amount to overall risk.

Think of it like height: there is no single "height gene," but rather thousands of genetic variants that each contribute a tiny amount. Similarly, most common diseases are influenced by many genetic variants working together, plus environmental factors.

PRS are calculated by multiplying the number of risk alleles you carry at each genetic position by the effect size of that variant, then summing across all variants in the score.

Understanding Your Results

How to interpret what your risk scores mean

Accuracy & Limitations

Important context about what PRS can and cannot tell you

Comparison with Other Services

How this tool differs from commercial offerings

Privacy & Data

How we handle your genetic information

Medical & Clinical Questions

Important information about clinical use of results

Still Have Questions?

Check out our detailed methodology documentation or contact us for more information.

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