Prevent disease by taking action early.
Take charge of your health with clear genetic insights. Test genes that could cause an increased risk of developing certain cancers, heart disease & other health risks.
Understanding Preventative Health Screening
Approximately 1 in 20 healthy people carry a gene change that increases their risk of developing heart disease or cancer. All cancer is genetic. More than 10% of these can be prevented with proactive screening to identify family gene variants.
1 in 2
Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.
Source: Cancer Council
18%
of Australians live with cardiovascular disease.
Source: Australia Heart Foundation
Preventative health products
Explore our range of tests.
Proactive Heart Health Test
Proactive Cancer Risk Test
Preventative Health Test
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Explore genetic testing options tailored to your needs
| What's included | |||
| Total genes screened |
60+ genes
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80+ genes
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160+ genes
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| Cancer risk genes |
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| Heart disease genes |
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| Surgical risk genes |
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| Genetic counselling support |
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| Express return shipping |
Free
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Free
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Free
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| Results turnaround time |
Within 4-6 weeks
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Within 4-6 weeks
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Within 4-6 weeks
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How testing works
On demand - simple, at-home testing and counselling
1. Order your test
Order online and delivered to your door
2. Share your story
Help us to make testing meaningful to you and your goals
3. Provide your sample
Simply swab and return your kit via prepaid package
4. Get your results
Free telehealth consult with an accredited genetic counsellor
Frequently Asked Questions
What is preventative genetic testing?
What is preventative genetic testing?
Preventative genetic testing helps identify inherited changes in your DNA that may increase your risk of developing certain health conditions – like cancer, heart disease, and more. With this knowledge, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk and make informed health decisions.
What does Eugene's Preventative Health Test include?
What does Eugene's Preventative Health Test include?
Our Preventative Health Test is a comprehensive at-home genetic test that combines insights from both cancer and heart risk testing – all in one.
It screens 167 genes that could increase your risk of developing certain cancers, cardiovascular conditions, and other health issues, so you can take steps to prevent disease or detect it early.
What’s included:
- 65 cancer-risk genes – including BRCA1, BRCA2, and genes linked to Lynch syndrome
- 83 heart disease genes – associated with inherited cardiovascular risks
- 19 additional health-risk genes – including those that may impact surgery or medication safety
- Simple at-home saliva test
- Free genetic counselling before & after your test
- A personalised prevention & early detection plan based on your results
This all-in-one test is designed to support your long-term health with clear, actionable insights.
Why would I consider a preventative test if I’m healthy?
Why would I consider a preventative test if I’m healthy?
Even if you feel well today, inherited conditions often run silently in families. Around 6% of people carry a gene change that could significantly impact their cancer or heart health risks. Early awareness gives you the power to make lifestyle or medical decisions that may prevent disease later in life
Will I get support to understand my results?
Will I get support to understand my results?
Yes. All tests include access to our team of expert genetic counsellors, who guide you through your results and what they mean for your health and next steps.
What if my test shows a higher risk?
What if my test shows a higher risk?
If a gene change is found, you’ll receive a personalised report and 1:1 counselling to discuss recommended next steps. These may include additional screening, lifestyle changes, or referrals to specialists.
How common are these gene changes?
How common are these gene changes?
- Around 15% of people will have a gene change that may impact their health.
- Around 6% of people carry a gene change that could significantly affect their cancer or heart risk.
- About 1 in 120 people carry a high-impact heart condition gene.
Is this test covered by Medicare?
Is this test covered by Medicare?
No. Currently, our preventative genetic tests are not covered by Medicare. You’ll see pricing and payment options at checkout.
Is my genetic data secure?
Is my genetic data secure?
Absolutely. Your privacy is our priority. Eugene complies with all health data protection regulations, and your information is never shared without your consent.
Further reading
Understanding the genetic risk factors of hereditary heart arrhythmias.
In light of recent news about Tess Hughes, a young woman who tragically lost her life due to a genetic condition known as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), we want to address concerns and provide information about this condition. If you or someone you know is worried about genetic risks that can increase one's chances of developing a heart arrhythmia or increasing the risk of sudden cardiac death, we hope this blog post will help alleviate some of your concerns and guide you on a path towards proactive health management. Understanding ARVC: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevalence Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a genetic heart muscle disorder that affects the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. ARVC occurs due to a gradual weakening of the ventricle wall, potentially leading to life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms (cardiac arrhythmias), especially during intense physical activity symptoms of ARVC. Symptoms usually begin in adulthood. It is estimated that ARVC affects between 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 2,500 people1. However, ARVC may be more common than reported, as it can be challenging to detect in people with mild or no symptoms. In Tess Hughes' case, the condition went undetected until her sudden and tragic passing in her sleep. This scenario highlights the importance of raising awareness about heart arrhythmias and the benefits of early detection to prevent further loss of lives. Taking Action: Genetic Testing and Monitoring One of the key takeaways from Tess's story is the power of genetic testing and monitoring for individuals who may carry the ARVC gene. The field of cardiac genetics is evolving rapidly. It is reported that variations in at least 13 genes can lead to ARVC. However, only 60% of people with ARVC will have an identifiable genetic cause. The most common genetic cause is a variation in the PKP2 gene inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. This means that once a person is identified as carrying a variation in this gene, there is a 50% chance that any of their first-degree relatives will also carry the variation. As in Tess’ family’s story, not all carriers will experience symptoms - however, knowing if you are at increased risk of an arrhythmogenic disorder could save your life as you can access screening, surveillance and potential interventions to decrease the chances of sudden death. Once Tess's mother, Karen Hughes, became aware that ARVC was passed through her side of the family, she underwent genetic testing, which confirmed that she carries a genetic predisposition to the condition and was diagnosed with the disorder, enabling her to have an internal defibrillator implanted proactively. Additionally, many of Tess's relatives and siblings were found to carry the ARVC gene and are now being regularly monitored. This proactive approach - will undoubtedly improve the heart health outcomes for members of Tess’ family. It is crucial for individuals with a family history of ARVC to consult with medical professionals specialising in cardiac genetics. By understanding your risk and having a clinical assessment, picking up early signs of heart damage may be possible. If a gene variant is known in the family, is it possible for blood relatives - especially first-degree relatives (parents, siblings and children) to consider whether genetic testing is appropriate? You can control your family's narrative by taking proactive steps to manage the condition and minimise potential catastrophic events. Using IVF technologies can also use this information to prevent passing it on to future generations. Genetic Testing and Counselling for ARVC Seeing the support and resources available to families affected by ARVC is heartening in the face of tragedy. The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, through its Family Health Information Service, offers valuable support to grieving families, information, and referrals to medical specialists. They aim to diagnose previously undetected conditions and provide support to families grappling with concealed medical conditions. Furthermore, the Royal Melbourne Hospital's cardiac genetics clinic investigates family histories and provides long-term care for individuals referred to their services. Individuals and families affected by ARVC can receive the necessary guidance and care by working closely with healthcare professionals and utilising available resources. Those who may not get access to testing through these options can access testing privately. At Eugene, we offer comprehensive genetic testing services for cardiac conditions, including some genetic causes of ARVC. Our genetic tests can help identify specific genetic variants with a well-documented association with the condition, providing valuable insights into your cardiac health. Just to let you know, Eugene does not offer diagnostic testing, and there are limitations to the proactive test. Eugene’s Proactive Heart Health test is most appropriate for healthy individuals looking to learn more about their inherited risk of a cardiac condition. It is not designed for people with symptoms. Those who have symptoms should consider diagnostic testing with their cardiac specialist. Furthermore, we understand that genetic testing can be an emotionally charged process. That's why we offer genetic counselling services to support you throughout your testing journey. Our certified genetic counsellors will interpret your test results, address any concerns you may have, and guide you in making informed decisions about your healthcare. Managing ARVC and Leading a Healthy Life Living with ARVC requires a comprehensive approach to managing the condition effectively and reducing the complication risk. Upon diagnosis, your healthcare provider will create a personalised management plan tailored to your needs. Here are some aspects of managing ARVC: Regular Monitoring Routine cardiac evaluations, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs) and echocardiograms, can help monitor the structure and function of your heart. Medications & treatment options Depending on the severity of your condition, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage specific symptoms and reduce the risk of arrhythmias. In some cases, implantable cardiac devices, such as defibrillators. Genetic Counselling Genetic counselling plays a vital role in understanding the hereditary aspect of ARVC and its potential impact on family members. A genetic counsellor can guide genetic testing, assess the risk of passing on the condition, and help you make informed decisions about family planning. Family Screening When considering genetic testing for heritable heart conditions, involving your family in the screening process is important. Genetic counsellors can guide your family members, giving them the necessary information to make informed decisions about their cardiac health. Conclusion It is crucial not to let fear or uncertainty overshadow your well-being. If you have concerns about genetic causes of heart disease, please take proactive steps to seek medical advice and take the appropriate assessment. Early detection and personalised management and support can significantly improve your long-term outcomes. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Contact healthcare professionals, genetic counsellors, and support networks to receive your needed guidance and support. By taking control of your health and staying informed, you can lead a fulfilling life while managing ARVC effectively. 1Wallace R, Calkins H. Risk stratification in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev. 2021;10:26–32. Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised guidance and treatment recommendations based on your circumstances.
Navigating the misinformation about genetics in the press.
Let's talk about genetics and how to navigate through the constant stream of "information" out there. On any given day, countless articles are being published — from reporting on genetics and its implications on health conditions like autism or schizophrenia to how-to guides on using genetics to "maximise your gains"; the list goes on! Media plays an important role. We all know that media can be incredibly helpful in making science accessible to a wider audience, but unfortunately, it can also be a source of confusion and even misinformation. With headlines like “I took a DNA test to maximize my workout gains” or “Schizophrenia Is 80% Genetic,” it's hard to know what to believe. The rush to get clicks, views, paid press, and your $$ it has resulted in press releases of any and all research papers and consumer products that come to their desk. It’s a numbers game For complex conditions like autism, both genes and environment play a role. But understanding how much is contributed by genetics and how much by one’s environment has been subject to much debate. The article's study cited found that genetics likely accounts for around 83% of the disorder. This sounds like a lot and can cause alarm for many people. But it’s also misleading. It’s not that it’s bad science; it’s just that population-scale research cannot (and should not) always be applied to understand an individual person’s risk for the condition. Basically, it's complicated. It’s a jungle out there. Media organisations and companies often bait people into content and products that try to apply population-scale scientific research personally to you indiscriminately. They use the names of scientific journals and studies they “cite” as “proof”, making it all sound very convincing. But of course, that's not how it works, but that doesn't seem to matter. Why? Because it's an effective sales technique, and as such, we can expect it to happen more and more. What to do about it? Consumers have to start casting a more discerning eye. Take most health and science things you read in popular media with a grain of salt. Reading the latest research is a great way to engage with science, but never assume those “percentages” apply to you. If you’re concerned about something, always always, ALWAYS consult a trained professional, like a genetic counsellor. Why is Eugene different from the rest of the noise At Eugene we only test for potentially life-threatening conditions - that are clinically actionable. This means that our tests are medical-grade with reports you can act upon. These actions may be medical referrals provided by our registered genetic counsellors. Finally, if you come across articles, products and claims you’re concerned about, send us a message at hello@eugenelabs.com. We may not always be able to advise, but we may at least be able to point you in the right direction.
Look after your heart this Valentine's Day.
This Valentine's Day, show your heart some love by taking charge of your genetic well-being with Eugene. With the cost of sequencing the human genome now closer to $500, genetic testing has never been more accessible, and we can use it to predict and prevent health issues rather than only treating them. The heart health test empowers you to be proactive with your heart health by detecting genetic predispositions to potential heart conditions and arming you with the knowledge you need to take proactive measures to improve your health. With a simple spit-in-a-tube test, you can screen for 83 different genes related to inherited heart conditions (IHC); including those affecting blood pressure, cholesterol levels, heart rhythm, and blood vessels. The test results are reviewed by our team of registered genetic counsellors, who will help you get clear on your options for management, including lifestyle changes, early screenings, and medication options. No more waiting rooms, referrals, or blood tests – receive best-in-class clinical care from the comfort of your own home with the support of your genetic counsellor. Eugene’s proactive heart health test was born from, our founder Kunal's personal story of his father’s passing. "Losing my father to inherited heart disease led me to genomics to explore what we inherit from all those who came before us and what we pass on to all those who come after. I was passionate about building a world where healthcare is about preventing illness, rather than just treating it. It inspired a personal mission to break down the legacy of healthcare and rebuild a more empowered, knowledgeable and equitable future. One that is personalised, preventive and in your home. It inspired a personal mission to drive global and equitable access to the future of healthcare — one that’s personalised, preventive and in your home.” - Kunal Kalro, Eugene's Co-Founder & CEO Eugene is changing how we approach our health, one heart at a time. Join the 12,000 Eugene members who have taken the first step towards proactive health. This Valentine's Day, skip the crowded restaurants, dating-app swipes, or chocolate in bed and take charge of your heart health.
