Inherited Cardiovascular Diseases & When Genetic Screening Makes Sense
Genes are responsible for every aspect of the cardiovascular system, from the way heart cells communicate to the strength of blood cells. As such, a genetic mutation (disease-causing variant) in a single gene can increase the likelihood of developing heart disease.
Cardiovascular diseases can be inherited by children from their parents. This is why other family members are encouraged to undergo genetic screening for risk factors when a loved one is diagnosed with heart disease or heart disorder.
Which Diseases Can be Inherited
Parents can pass genetic disorders onto their children, even if they don't have the disorder themselves. As carriers, Mum and Dad can pass diseases onto their offspring - something that's aptly referred to as a hereditary disease. Hereditary diseases can also occur when neither parent is a carrier, and foetal malformations may arise as a consequence.
Genetic Testing in Heart Disease
At Genetics.ie we offer a wide range of genetic testing services and today we’re here to talk about its relevance to those with heart disease. Specifically, there are genetic disorders of cardiac function, which may be the underlying reason for the cardiac problem in an individual and their family