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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Genetic Testing

Includes 15 tests
Saliva
4 - 5 Weeks
210€

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition characterized by airflow restriction, often caused by exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke. Symptoms include chronic cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Treatment includes smoking cessation, bronchodilators, and inhaled corticosteroids to relieve symptoms and improve lung function. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is based on the examination of 80 gene polymorphisms.

Genetic testing for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is included along with 14 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Cardiovascular and Respiratory Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score.

Causes and non-genetic risk factors

Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Emphysema is the destruction of the alveoli, the respiratory structure that allows the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, caused by harmful exposure to tobacco smoke and other irritating gases and particles. Chronic bronchitis results from inflammation of the lining of the bronchi.

The leading cause of COPD in developed countries is smoking. However, other irritants can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including cigarette smoke itself, environmental pollution, and workplace exposure to dust, smoke, or toxic gases. In developing countries, it is mainly associated with exposure to fumes from burning fuels for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes.

Symptoms

COPD frequently appears around the age of 40-50 years but has a slow progression and progressive worsening. Symptoms usually do not appear until significant lung damage occurs and often worsen over time, especially if exposure to tobacco continues. Over time, it can limit a person's ability to perform daily activities and, in severe cases, prevent them from performing even the most basic activities. Common symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
  • Wheezing (whistling) in the chest
  • A feeling of tightness in the chest
  • Chronic cough that may produce mucus
  • Frequent respiratory infections
  • Lack of energy
  • Unintentional weight loss
Prevention

The best method of prevention is to reduce risk factors. These are the same ones that can trigger or worsen the disease when it is already established or exacerbate its symptoms.

  • Quitting smoking is the most essential measure that can be taken. It is also important to avoid second-hand smoke.
  • Exercise regularly as much as possible.
  • Maintain a balanced diet and an appropriate weight. Avoid large meals, especially dinner and alcoholic beverages, and limit carbonated beverages.
  • Avoid frigid environments.
  • Reduce air pollution in the home by eliminating chimney smoke and other irritants.
  • Vaccinate against influenza and pneumococcus to reduce the risk or prevent these common respiratory infections.
Additional information
Tests includedIncludes 15 tests
Sample Saliva
Results Time4 - 5 Weeks
Procedure completion test
Step 1

Purchase the test you want online

Select the tests you wish, through the most complete range of Preventive and Functional Medicine tests and purchase them online.

Step 2

Sampling

We send you the certified package - sampling collection kit, to collect your sample, always in accordance with the instructions contained within the kit.

Step 3

Sending your sample

After you have collected your sample, place it in the prepaid shipping package, contact the courier company and send it to our certified laboratory.

Step 4

Receiving the test results

Download your test results easily and securely anytime you want by logging in to your personal account.

Step 1

Book an appointment and buy the test online

Select from the most complete range test of Prevention, Andrology and Diagnostics, book an appointment in real time and purchase them online.

Step 2

Sampling

Visit the certified laboratory of Diagnostiki Athinon on the date and time you have chosen, to perform the sampling.

Step 3

Receiving the test results

Download your test results easily and securely anytime you want by logging in to your personal account.

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