HSA | FSA CARDS ARE NOW ACCEPTED

Understanding Your Genetic Result for CDKN2B-AS1 (rs10757274) and Heart Health

Heart disease, also called coronary artery disease, happens when fatty deposits build up inside the arteries that supply your heart. Over time these plaques can narrow arteries, reduce blood flow, and increase the risk of chest pain, fatigue, heart attack, or other cardiovascular events. Both genes and lifestyle factors influence this risk. The CDKN2B-AS1 gene makes a regulatory RNA that affects other genes important for artery health. Variants at rs10757274 in CDKN2B-AS1 are linked to differences in coronary artery disease risk.

How to Read This Result

This report explains what your genotype at rs10757274 means for your genetic predisposition to coronary artery disease and gives practical, approachable recommendations you can discuss with your healthcare provider. Genetics account for roughly 50 to 60 percent of heart disease risk overall, which means lifestyle choices and preventive care matter a great deal for everyone.

Two effect alleles (GG)

Genotype: GG (two copies of the effect allele)

Interpretation: Carrying two G alleles at rs10757274 is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease. The CDKN2B-AS1 RNA influences genes that help maintain healthy artery structure and function. Your GG genotype may contribute to a higher lifetime likelihood of developing atherosclerotic plaques in arteries that supply the heart. This genetic influence adds to other inherited and environmental risk factors.

What to consider: Given this elevated genetic risk, prioritizing heart protective habits and regular medical follow up is particularly important. Work with your clinician to assess overall cardiovascular risk, which includes family history, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, and lifestyle factors.

One effect allele (AG)

Genotype: AG (one copy of the effect allele)

Interpretation: Carrying one G allele at rs10757274 is associated with a likely increased risk of coronary artery disease compared with noncarriers. The gene product affects other genes involved in artery health, so this allele may modestly raise your predisposition to plaque buildup in heart arteries.

What to consider: This result suggests you may have an increased genetic tendency toward coronary artery disease but the effect is usually smaller than with two copies. Lifestyle interventions and routine screening are effective ways to reduce overall risk. Discuss personalized screening and prevention strategies with your healthcare provider.

No effect alleles (AA)

Genotype: AA (no effect allele)

Interpretation: Carrying two A alleles indicates a typical genetic risk at this locus. You do not carry the G allele linked to increased coronary artery disease risk at rs10757274. This does not mean zero risk. Heart disease risk remains influenced by many genes and lifestyle factors.

What to consider: Maintain heart healthy habits and follow routine screening as recommended for your age and health status. Healthy choices reduce risk for most people, regardless of genotype.

Practical Lifestyle and Diet Recommendations

  • Mediterranean-style diet: Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fish, and olive oil. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fat. Emphasize high fiber choices and lean protein sources.
  • Healthy fats: Choose sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such as olive oil, avocados, fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed. Reduce intake of trans fats and limit saturated fats found in fatty meats and full-fat dairy.
  • Regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, plus muscle strengthening two or more days per week. Even brisk daily walks help.
  • Maintain healthy weight: Work toward a body weight that lowers strain on your heart and helps control blood pressure and blood sugar.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking raises cardiovascular risk dramatically. Seek support to stop tobacco use.
  • Limit alcohol: If you drink, do so in moderation. Excess alcohol increases blood pressure and calories and can worsen other risk factors.
  • Manage stress and sleep: Prioritize 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night and practice stress reduction techniques like mindfulness, breathing exercises, or regular physical activity.

Supplement and Nutrient Considerations

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish oil or dietary intake of fatty fish twice weekly may support heart health. Discuss dose and need with your clinician, especially if you take blood thinners.
  • Vitamin D: Low vitamin D is common and may affect cardiovascular health indirectly. Consider testing levels before supplementing and follow your provider's guidance.
  • Fiber and plant sterols: Soluble fiber from oats, legumes, fruits, and vegetables can support healthy cholesterol levels. Plant sterol-enriched foods may also help lower LDL cholesterol when used appropriately.
  • CoQ10: Some people use CoQ10 for general cardiovascular support or if experiencing statin-associated muscle symptoms. Discuss benefits and interactions with your clinician.

Screening, Tests, and When to See Your Healthcare Provider

  • Have regular blood pressure checks and maintain records.
  • Get fasting lipid panel testing to monitor LDL, HDL, and triglycerides on a schedule recommended by your provider.
  • Monitor blood glucose or HbA1c if you have risk factors for diabetes.
  • Discuss whether additional testing such as coronary calcium scoring, carotid ultrasound, or advanced lipid testing is appropriate based on your overall risk profile.
  • If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or sudden weakness, seek immediate medical attention.

Putting Risk in Context

Genetic findings like rs10757274 are one component of risk. Lifestyle choices, clinical measures, and other inherited factors also shape your cardiovascular risk profile. Even if your genotype suggests increased risk, many people reduce their chance of heart disease substantially through diet, exercise, smoking cessation, weight control, and regular medical care. Conversely, a lower-risk genotype does not guarantee protection if other risk factors are present.

Important Disclaimer

PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider to interpret genetic results in the context of your overall health, to order appropriate tests, and to design a prevention or treatment plan tailored to you.