Frequently Asked Questions
Health is the wisest investment which can become expensive, if one does not invest in it at the right time! Genetic testing would help you to be proactive about your health by providing personalized information about your health, disease risk and other traits. Single test can covers more than 100 conditions.
The Executive gene checkup test is designed using data collected from genome wide association studies (GWAS) across the population and by precise data curation process. The findings have been validated as part of scientific research publications and have been cross checked for sensitivity.
Yes. If you have a condition and you want to know if your genes have something to do with it, our Gene report will give you that information. So instead of a medical trial and error, your physician can choose a precise treatment plan for you.
Do NOT Eat, Drink, Smoke or Chew Gum, 1hr before taking sample. Clean your mouth with water / saline water before taking sample Rub both your cheeks with both hands on the outside ( in circular movements ) for 30 seconds to stimulate saliva. Repeat same step if required to produce more saliva. You can also view the sample collection process at https://ohmygene.com/process/
Even if you don’t have a history of a particular health problem in your family, you could still be as risk. This is because you may be unaware of disease in some family members, or you could have family members who died young, before they had a chance to develop chronic conditions. Your risk of developing a chronic disease is also influenced by many other factors, including your habits and personal health history.
There are many reasons that people might get genetic testing. Doctors might suggest a genetic test if patients or their families have certain patterns of disease. Genetic testing is voluntary and the decision about whether to have genetic testing is complex.
Next Generation Sequencing.
No, but if needed, we can provide it on a separate basis.
This is because we use the NGS technique and Illumina machine, which is the most advanced in the world at the moment. Also, it covers conditions from head to toe, covering around 100+ disease conditions from around 8000 genes. Other companies who provide similar tests, use micro array which is a less accurate technique.
We provide the support you need as a parent to help your child push past barriers in development and make your child FUTURE READY! OMG Junior is a saliva-based genetic test for kids which can be used as a parenting tool, to better understand your child's genetic gifts like cognitive and learning abilities, athletic prowess, psychological/ behavioral traits, sleep chronotype and other lifestyle determinants. It can also help you identify your child’s gene based dietary requirements, nutritional deficiency risk, food sensitivities, and genetically favorable exercise routines, all of which can be used to mold your child better.
Saliva is the preferable sample for OMG JUNIOR Test package.
The accuracy for the OMG JUNIOR test package is 85%.
3-4 weeks
The OMG JUNIOR test is designed using data collected from genome wide association studies (GWAS) across the population and by precise data curation process. The findings have been validated as part of scientific research publications and have been cross checked for sensitivity.
OMG JUNIOR provides an idea of the child's cognitive skills, intelligence, learning aptitude, sports abilities, psychology, behavioral pattern,well-being and life skills. These genetic markers do not change during the child’s lifetime and hence, they can be used as a tool to understand specific skillsets of a child in terms of preparing them for a suitable career as well. Upon request, the risk for two common disease conditions (cardiovascular / diabetes risk) can also be checked as a part of this report.
China, for their 2022 Olympics did a genetic screening as well for the selection process.
The potential advantages of saliva sample collection compared with blood sample collection include lower overall cost, lower infection risk, increased patient convenience, acceptability, compliance and uptake. The Saliva and blood had similar mean quality scores of approximately 34.5. Mean coverage for both saliva and blood exceeded 100.
Yes. Our test packages have been developed by our team of scientists in close association with Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology.
OhMyGene offers pre-test evaluation through pre- genetic counselling to understand your expectations from the test and how the test will benefit your child. The test will be followed by post- genetic counselling to understand the test findings. Based on your child’s test report-based requirement, expert consultations from nutritionists, dieticians, psychologist etc can be provided as an additional service
Yes. The Once in a lifetime Kid’s Wellness package from OhMyGene will unlock the information in a child’s genome and give you a broad idea about your child’s potential, abilities, predispositions, risks, strengths and weaknesses.
The scientific technique which is used for OMG JUNIOR test package is MICROARRAY (A microarray is a laboratory tool used to detect the expression of thousands of genes at the same time.).
Once you provide the Saliva Sample and after you register the kit, you will be asked to provide certain user details to help us understand you better. We also ask you if you agree to use your Genetic information for your future results, recommendations and research & development purposes by keeping anonymity. You may Agree or Disagree to the Data usage clause and we promise to follow your instructions.
• The personal data will be separated out from the sample once we have received the sample in the lab. • The personal details and the sample will be encrypted to our internal reference number and anyone who is working on the sample in the wet lab as well as the data analysis team is only handling the sample data with an anonymous number. • We have a data confidentiality policy with all our employees handling any data. • We are responsible to our customers, the personal details of the customer will be incorporated into the report just before sending out to the customer.
The genetic test and the program are intended for predictive and preventive purposes and should not be confused to be providing diagnosis of any medical or disease conditions. We highly recommend that you keep your physician in the loop about any changes you’re bringing about.
No, the entire biotechnology industry and the ministry is behind it. IGP (Indian Genome Project) is a project that is to be completed within 2 years, which is when we will have a gene bank of our own. Till then, even Dubai and other countries are depending on this global data.
Anyone who is interested in taking the test may go for it. It is best preferred for children between the ages 3 and 12. The reason being, it is difficult to get the saliva sample from a younger kid, and it is easier to mould kids till the age of 12.
There are hundreds of genes involved in skin health but it is often a combination of genetics and environmental factors like sun’s UV rays and pollution that cause ageing. Some of these non-genetic factors have the ability to switch on genes that are not good for skin health and switch off some of the good ones.
Once you get your genes analysed at OhMyGene, you will get to know how likely you are to get a skin ageing problem. Once you know that, you can take preventive action by changing your lifestyle, diet or nutrients.
In people with a certain gene variation, caffeine in coffee can bind to certain enzymes and affect the production of glycine and collagen. For these individuals, coffee scrub might not work well.
Collagen and elastin are two proteins that give form and structure to the facial skin. There are a large number of enzymes involved in the synthesis and maintenance of collagen and elastin. These enzymes are also proteins. All these proteins can be formed only if the genes expressed in a proper manner. When these genes are not properly functioning, there will not be any collagen and the facial skin will sag.
Skin properties like moisture, elasticity, pigmentation, and wrinkles are highly heritable. Our genetic counsellor can analyse your genetic report and give you advice on lifestyle, nutrition and cosmetics so that you can make informed skincare choices.
Yes. A number of skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and even acne are known to run in families.
Skin irritation from exposure to a cosmetic or a household product is not inherited. But certain genetic variations, like that of the immunomodulator gene TNF-alpha, will have excessive inflammation of skin that can look like an allergy.
Exposure of skin to significant dose of UV from the sun can lead to inflammatory reaction characterized by redness, blisters and even pain.
Genomics has identified variations in genes that play a role in the skin condition of individuals, skin ageing and sensitivities. This enables the assessment of each person’s skin traits and thus suitable skincare products and diet.
There are genetic differences in how our bodies respond to irritation. Although inflammation is a natural response, it may cause a weakening of the skin and subsequent inflammatory ageing, usually called “inflammaging”.
Glucose can bind to collagen and elastin fibres in the skin making them stiff and brittle. It also cross links with other proteins forming Advanced Glycation End products (AGE) resulting in deep wrinkling.
Smoking and high consumption of alcohol are known to promote glycation production and accumulation of AGE that results in skin losing its elasticity.
Nourishment from within is most important for beautiful skin than just local application of face creams. You can pamper your skin with antioxidant rich food, essential vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids, polyphenols, probiotics, and most importantly, sufficient amount of water for hydration.
Your skin is unique to you and so are your genes. Get your genomic data analysed at OhMyGene and find the variations in the expression of the skin genes. This will give information on what nutrient your skin might need. Your diet can be modified accordingly, in combination with other suggested treatment procedures.
Vitamin C has a solution to most skin problems. Studies at the Bayton College of Medicine have shown that Vitamin C also protects skin from sun damage. Sunscreens with vitamin C have also been shown to be a more protective barrier. A combination of vitamin C and vitamin E can improve the skin’s resistance to UV exposure.
Vitamins A, D and B2 are important. Vitamin A interacts with the BCMO1 gene and supports the skin immune system. Vitamin B2 interacts with MTHFR gene and is vital for collagen maintenance. Vitamin D prevents damage from sun exposure, stops premature ageing and prevents wrinkles
Yoghurt has a lot of friendly bacteria that increases skin hydration, prevents sagging, and helps to fight inflammation and acne.
Most of the time, the UV rays in the sun cause damage to proteins and DNA in your skin cells. In certain individuals, the changes in skin cells caused by excessive exposure to sun might be mistaken for foreign antigens by the immune system. Hence, the intense reaction.
Melanin acts like a natural sunscreen and absorbs the harmful UV rays from the sun.
The key is to use sun protection products that are scientifically formulated to stimulate cell renewal, reduce wrinkle formation and inhibit uneven pigmentation.
The components of sunscreen usually absorb, reflect or scatter sunlight and therefore the skin is exposed to only low levels of UV rays. As UVB is essential for producing vitamin D, the amount of vitamin D produced maybe affected.
Treatment will aim to cure the photodamaged skin using different methods and the package will include dietary and lifestyle changes that are necessary.
We at OhMygene check what your unique genetic profile says about your skin – Are you prone to wrinkling and ageing fast? Are you prone to acne? Is your skin influenced by sugar consumption? How does your skin breakdown collagen? How does living in a polluted city impact your skin? How much sun protection does your skin need with SPF and so on.
If your genes show a predisposition to a particular skin condition that has not yet been manifested, you can take preventive action. If you already have a skin condition, then the genetic data will help you pick up a treatment mode that is most effective for you whether it is medicine, cosmetics, exercise, lifestyle change or diet. Since it is personalized, it will be highly effective.
How a gene is expressed or whether it is expressed at all can be influenced by environmental, lifestyle and diet factors. Some of the gene expressions can be corrected by the quality and quantity of food, specific micronutrient supplements like selenium, or Omega fatty acids. Once your genetic data is available, OhMygene can suggest what micronutrients, minerals are needed and which all lifestyle habits needs to be changed. You can make an informed choice on nutrition, lifestyle changes and even cosmetics based on the insight you get from genetic tests at OhMyGene.
Sunshine is often equated with happiness. Sunlight can help the body make Vitamin D, which is very essential. It is also supposed to activate the release of serotonin that can lift your mood and maintain a sense of calm. However, UV rays in the sun can damage the skin at a molecular level. The DNA may be broken down and the proteins in your skin get damaged, often leading to what is called photo-ageing.
Of the UV spectrum, while UVC is relatively harmless, UVB class="faqtxt-all" can cause death of cells making the skin red and painful to touch. UVA can penetrate to deeper layers and affect the collagen scaffolding of the skin, causing wrinkles and sagging of the skin.
● This test package gives molecular level assessment of suitable diet and fitness regimens to people who are proactive about their health.
● Based on these findings, a comprehensive personalized fitness and diet plan could be recommended for them to become a healthy individual.
● Based on your genes this test will help you to customize your diet chart, choose suitable diet and exercise type. • This unique, customized plan can be used to prevent Lifestyle disorders and related chronic disease like obesity, diabetes, blood pressure.
This is a once in a lifetime test, whereas the other one is a monthly payment.
By these tests, we get unique insights on how your body will respond to exercise. For example, we will get to know whether you would benefit more from cardio or weights, whether you need more rest than normal, whether you are built for power or for endurance, whether you are made for strength training or long distance running and so on. We will then give you a customized workout plan that is just perfect for your genetic make-up.
The OhMyGene team decodes your genes and provides a highly customized diet plan that you will be able to follow for a long time. Not only do we calculate the calories you need but we also check how different types of food are processed in your body, the macro and micro nutrients you need as per your genes and provide you with a highly personalized diet plan that suits you and your genes. Instead if you are taking food that does not match your genes, then it might leave you with a constant hunger, food craving, and even lethargy.
You have been overweight for most of your life and if you have struggled with losing that extra pounds by diet and exercise, then there is high chance that your problem has a genetic origin. If you have a parent or both parents who are overweight, then you can almost confirm that it is genetic. However, you get a very definite picture with a genetic test at OhMyGene.
Some of the Olympic athletes might have a genetic advantage that boosts performance. ACTN3 is a gene that increases muscle power and thus performance. There are gene variations like the COL5A1 variants that can predict your risk of injury while strength training. Anyone can improve their athletic performance by matching the training program to their genetic profile.
Certain studies point out that FTO variation may be associated with psychological behaviors such as anxiety and depression. Such persons may have a craving for comfort foods, often leading to overeating and weight gain. More research is awaited in this area.
At OhMyGene, we run tests for 19 genes that may affect weight and fitness issues. Once the analysis is done, we will get to know if the child has a predisposition to weight gain. We can help by suggesting a treatment mode that includes diet management and a fitness plan that will correct defects caused by the genes.
The onset of weight gain may be different in different children. What is not seen in infancy can occur in adolescence. The OhMyGene tests will reveal if the child is carrying any risk alleles and can also give you information about a person’s predisposition to gaining weight.
Physical activity is always good for maintaining a healthy body. But often, lack of physical activity is not the only factor that causes weight gain and obesity. Eating less and exercising alone may not be enough. At OhMyGene, you can check if there are any underlying genetic factors involved and treat them accordingly.
Excessive weight gain and fitness issues in childhood are worrying because some of the direct adverse effects include orthopedic complications, breathing problems, and psychosocial disorders. It is also associated with cardiovascular and digestive problems and increases overall mortality in adult life.
Children with rare genetic disorders of obesity gain weight very rapidly very early in childhood. They will have a very high body mass index for their age. The onset of such obesity is usually noticed between 2 to 5 years of age, but cases have been reported when the onset is as early as 6 months to as late as the pre-teens.
OhMyGene is a Molecular Diagnostic initiative to empower our customers and their medical providers to make personalized healthcare decisions tailored to an individual’s unique genetic makeup. We strive to help people live with confidence by understanding their genetic makeup and plan their wellbeing.
Health is the wisest investment which can become expensive, if one does not invest in it at the right time! Genetic testing would help you to be proactive about your health by providing personalized information about your health, disease risk and other traits.
In brief, we collect 2 ml saliva into the sample collection kit, sent to your address. Once you register the kit and submit user details with consent to proceed, we arrange for a sample pick-up. Once the sample reaches the OhMyGene Lab, the quality is ensured by the scientists. The DNA extracted from your sample is sequenced and analysed to prepare a detailed Personalized Genetic Report with recommendations. Our Genetic Counsellor will help you to understand the report and guide you. The recommendations provided do not replace the advisement of a medical practitioner. It is advisable to consult your physician before commencing any form of medication.
Personalized Genetic tests do not need a physician’s prescription or consultation. However, Clinical diagnostic tests (Eg: for Cancer) and treatment decisions would be solely based on the prescription of a medical practitioner.
Once you order the desired Test, we send you the OhMyGene Sample collection kit. The kit contains a collection tube in which, you provide saliva up to the level marked. You will need to Register the kit on www.ohmygene.com , using the unique identification number on the collection tube. Once you register this kit, you will receive an email and SMS and be contacted by our representative for sample pick up.
-- Sample collection tube with a Funnel lid and a closing cap.
-- Instructions printed on Sample Collection process.
-- A self-addressed return envelope.
-- A User Information form to be duly signed by Customer.
Usually it’s Saliva. We will send you a Sample collection Kit, with clear instructions. For diagnostic tests like Cancer and other critical illness, you may be asked to give peripheral blood / FFPE tissue / sample as recommended by your physician.
Do NOT Eat, Drink, Smoke or Chew Gum, 1 Hr before taking sample. Clean your mouth with water / saline water before taking sample Rub both your cheeks with both hands on the outside ( in circular movements ) for 30 secs to stimulate saliva. Repeat same step if required to produce more saliva. You can also view the sample collection process at https://ohmygene.com/process/
On the Sample collection Box as well as the Sample Collection tube, you would notice a Unique Identification number. Enter the number on the Register my kit section in www.ohmygene.com . It is important for us to know that the kit belongs to you. Without registering the kit and giving user details, we will not be able to process a Genetic test.
After collecting your saliva sample you can schedule a pickup by either logging into your account or by calling our Toll Free Number : +91 8891 650 505/
At OhMyGene we practise effective operating procedures to maintain the Turn Around Time ( T.A.T ). Every customer will receive notifications through SMS / Email at every stage from Kit dispatch to Report Generation. For more details on the process, please visit https://ohmygene.com/process/
Yes. However delivery and pick up will require an Indian postal address. We are currently not shipping to international locations.
We suggest 18 years and above. However, for minors below 18 years of age requires the written consent of parents / legal guardian.
The results generated from your Saliva / any other sample will be interpreted and shared in a user-friendly, actionable report accessible through your User account at www.ohmygene.com When your results are available, we will notify you though an email / SMS. Don’t worry, we will even call you.
Yes, log into your user account at www.ohmygene.com and download the Report from your dashboard.
The reports are usually detailed and self-explanatory. However, if you want more details and help in understanding the same you could schedule a call with our genetic counsellors. Our Genetic counsellors will schedule an appointment at your convenience and help make understand your test results better.
Your genetic report is your own personal information. You are not required by law to notify or share this information with anyone. You may find it beneficial to share this information with your doctor or with other family members at your discretion.
Not really. For you having a high genetic risk does not imply that you will necessarily get the disease. For a disease to have a clinical linkage, there are several other influencing factors such as familial history, lifestyle, clinical history and exposure to environmental factors.
Our Gene tests collects DNA from your saliva. The Genes in these cells will remain unchanged regardless of medical conditions in other parts of the body, so the results from these cells will remain the same regardless of your sickness. Similarly, medications that you take will not change your DNA test results. One exception to this is if you are the recipient of a bone marrow transplant or if you have had a recent blood transfusion (7 days before providing your Saliva sample). If you are a marrow or blood recipient, your white blood cells will contain the Genes of your donor, these can be found in small amounts in your saliva. The Genes from these cells will not match with your own, and this can result in analysis failure. We therefore do not recommend taking the test if you have received a bone marrow transplant or recent blood transfusion. In addition, if you are applying a cream or ointment onto the inside of the mouth (gum, teeth, etc), we highly advise you to provide your sample when you are no longer using the cream or ointment.
The saliva collection kit contains a stabilizer (buffer) inside the funnel lid of the collection tube. Once you have collected the sample and close the funnel lid of the tube, the stabilizer (buffer) will mix to stabilize your Saliva sample and prevent potential bacterial contamination. The Saliva sample can be stored in a refrigerator (not in freezer) preferably at 4°C until shipment ( 24 -48 hrs ) or at -18° to -50° C ( upto 3 months ). Unused kits also remain stable even when exposed to temperatures within this range during shipping or storage. However, for the best results, we recommend you book the sample pick up, as soon as you collect the sample.
You will get your Genetic reports between 4 to 6 weeks from the time your sample is received at the processing lab. You will receive an SMS / Email alert, once the report is available online. You can use your login credentials to access the report. In the event of an unplanned delay, we would notify you through SMS / Email. However, due to the ongoing Covid 19 pandemic, intermittent lockdown and travel restrictions, sample pick up and delivery are temporarily affected.
Absolutely. Our DNA tests collect DNA from your saliva. The DNA in these cells will remain unchanged regardless of changes in other parts of the body, so the test results will remain the same.
If the sample fails due to insufficient quantity of sample or contamination, then the refund doesn’t apply. Tests once processed cannot be refunded. We shall resend another Kit once more, beyond which there shall be an additional cost applicable. Please read the sample collection instructions clearly. If in doubt, you can always reach us Toll Free :+91 8891 650 505.
Yes, you can. The user information is collected at the time of registering the Kit using the code printed on the Kit. Make Sure the Information of the User (Not Buyer) is entered at that time.
You should have a fair idea about the genetic illnesses that run in your immediate as well as extended families. This will help the counsellor to analyse how susceptible you are to a particular health condition. You may also write down your questions, doubts and apprehensions on paper so that you make the best use of your time with the counsellor.
Once you provide the Saliva Sample and after you register the kit, you will be asked to provide certain user details to help us understand you better. We also ask you if you agree to use your Genetic information for your future results, recommendations and research & development purposes by keeping anonymity. You may Agree or Disagree to the Data usage clause and we promise to follow your instructions.
There are a group of genes whose variant or change results in particular trait/condition. Like for example if you have a specific gene variant responsible for hair loss; your report will give information about your risk and possible evidence based recommendations to delay the same.
Once we have your gene testing report; our team of scientists and specialist physicians will make a personalised report for you, which will have your gene specific treatment recommendations as well as life style suggestions and diet plan. (Referring to scientific research publications and findings).
Yes, we do predictive testing. If you have a particular gene variant for a condition; It means you might get that disease/condition in future. But if you are aware of it, you can avoid or delay it by making lifestyle changes/routine check ups. Since, it’s not just the genes, the environment and our lifestyle is also responsible for triggering a condition/gene (Epigenetics), for more information, please contact the Genetic Counsellor.
OhMyGene will ensure privacy and anonymity of your genetic data through user data encryption.
If you have a condition and you want to know if your genes have something to do with it, our Gene report will give you that information. So instead of a medical trial and error, your physician can choose a precise treatment plan for you.
Your genetic report will give information about your own risk for a condition. In certain genetic diseases, genetic testing is recommended for you and your partner, to know the chances of passing down a genetic condition to your children, based on the pedigree chart prepared with family history information provided by you. For more information contact our Genetic counsellor.