Type 1 diabetes genetic risk test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the insulin-making cells of the pancreas. Inherited factors play a part, especially variations in the HLA genes that guide the immune system, together with a number of other genes. This test looks at a set of these variants and combines them into a single genetic risk score.

A genetic risk score describes inherited tendency, not whether diabetes is developing. It can help when it is unclear whether someone has type 1, type 2 or another form of diabetes, and it can add context for relatives of people with type 1. Because DNA does not change, the result stays the same throughout your life.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. Genetic results are best discussed with a specialist or genetic counsellor, especially if you are considering testing children.

Who it is for

• You have a parent, brother, sister or child with type 1 diabetes.
• You have been diagnosed with diabetes and it is not yet clear which type you have.
• You have other autoimmune conditions, such as thyroid or coeliac disease, and a family history of type 1.
• You want to understand inherited risk as part of a discussion with a specialist.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your score and how it compares with people who do and do not have type 1 diabetes. A higher score means a greater inherited tendency, but most people with a high score never develop the condition, as environmental and immune factors also matter. A lower score makes type 1 less likely but does not rule it out.

A negative or low-risk result does not remove all risk. If there is concern about developing type 1, autoantibody tests and blood sugar markers give information about what is happening now. Treat your result as a prompt for discussion with a specialist, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting or special preparation is needed, and you can eat and take your medicines as usual. If you have symptoms of high blood sugar, such as extreme thirst, passing a lot of urine, weight loss or tiredness, please see your GP promptly or call 111, as these need a blood sugar check rather than a genetic test.

To check blood sugar today, our HbA1c and diabetes tests measure your recent glucose levels. You can also look at every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a type 1 diabetes genetic risk test in Chiswick?

The Type 1 Diabetes Genetic Risk test costs £119. This includes your blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Can this test tell me if I have diabetes?

No. It shows inherited risk only. Blood sugar tests such as HbA1c and glucose are used to check for diabetes.

Does a high score mean I will develop type 1 diabetes?

No. Many people with a high genetic risk score never develop the condition. Other factors, including the immune system and environment, also play a part.

Do I need to repeat the test?

No. Your genes do not change, so the score stays the same. Other tests may be repeated if your specialist advises.