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GTLDNA020822_DaffidilDay_Cancer_Research

Cancer Takes So Much – It’s Time to Give Back

When you do something nice for someone else, you get a feeling that cannot be described in words. Some people liken it to receiving a warm hug, others feel euphoric and on top of the world. Put simply, doing good things makes you feel good, but did you know that your simple act of generosity could help to save a life? 

Almost everyone has a personal connection with cancer. This devastating disease ravages bodies and changes lives, and in Australia alone, there are 150,000 new cancer diagnoses every year. Research into finding a cure for cancer has advanced in leaps and bounds, but still, we lose upwards of 50,000 Australians to cancer each year. The government is the biggest financial contributor to cancer research; however, funding is still desperately required. Thanks to investment in research, amazing advancements have been made in cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. This has helped to increase survival rates from 51% in the late 1980s to around 70% today.  

GTLDNAAugust 25 marks one of the most important cancer fundraising days in Australia, Daffodil Day. Since the first Daffodil Day in 1986, millions of dollars have been raised to enable improved research, prevention education, and implement support services for people with cancer. Thanks to donations, cervical cancer will be eliminated in Australia by 2035, advances in immunotherapy will see breast cancer deaths will be reduced dramatically, and many cancer treatments can be personalised to an individual case.  

There are several ways to support the Daffodil Day appeal. You can: 

We know that cancer is a killer, and that it doesn’t discriminate from one person to the next, but did you know that you might be more likely to develop cancer because of your genetic makeup? An inherited risk for cancer is caused by a small mutation in a gene that can be passed form one generation to the next in families. Some cancers that can be hereditary include, breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic cancer. GTL Australia can assist you with any questions you may have about your risk of developing an inherited cancer, with the Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test. This cancer panel test looks for a total of 92 mutations associated with hereditary cancers, and screens for the most common cancer-causing mutations. 

Genetic testing is the only way to confirm whether you carry certain hereditary gene mutations that may be responsible for certain cancers. This screening test can be used to identify gene mutations responsible for hereditary cancers within the family, and to determine which family members may be at a higher risk. This test can serve as a powerful tool, that can arm your specialist with the information needed to help you prepare for the future and potentially help you to make any necessary changes to reduce your risks of developing certain cancers. 

In support of Daffodil Day, GTL Australia is offering a special for the entire month of August. Purchase one Cancer Panel test and get 50% off the second test. Valid until the end of August, this is a must for anyone wanting to reveal their predisposition to a variety of cancers. 

August is the perfect time to explore your susceptibility to a range of cancers, and on a wider level, to contribute to the continuation of vital cancer research. It’s time to give back, and to experience that ‘on top of the world’ feeling that only comes from giving selflessly. 

GTLDNA

 

GTL_Twins_awareness_month

Better Together with You: Celebrating Multiple Births

Imagine having someone who looks almost exactly like you, who has your mannerisms, and even shares your DNA! Twins, triplets, and other multiple births have long been a source of fascination for people all around the world. We’re interested in twins, because most of us don’t have one!
\"\"Archaeologists have found evidence of twins in Barcelona, Spain, with bones dating back to the middle ages of the 4th Century BC, so they’ve been around for a long time!
In the late 1980’s a Gold Coast high school recorded 19 sets of identical and fraternal twins, including two sets of teachers who were twins! Talk about seeing double!

The Australian Multiple Birth Association (AMBA) is the only charity in Australia dedicated to improving the lives of twins, triplets and their families, and provide valuable advocacy in many areas. AMBA organises Multiple Birth Awareness Week, which runs from 15-22 March, and highlights the unique realities for multiple birth people and their families. In 2020, the theme is ‘Better Together’. The week aims to connect families with each other, to share experiences, cope better as a family unit, and to engage with health professionals, educators and other organisations who cater specifically for multiple birth families.

Twins are unique because they share the same DNA with each other. Identical twins come from the same fertilised egg, sharing 100% of their DNA, and fraternal twins are formed from two different eggs and two different sperm resulting in twins who only share 50% of their DNA, the same amount as regular siblings.

Often, twins who look very similar, may not actually be identical, and twins who look quite different to each other may not be fraternal! Being an identical or a fraternal twin is based on more than just physical features, and parents, or even twins themselves, who are curious about their ‘level of twinning’, can do so with a simple, mouth swab Twins DNA Test from GTL.

\"\"This test is 100% accurate, and provides answers to all of your identical and fraternal twin questions. Curiosity is not the only reason that the Twins DNA Test is a great tool. Clients sometimes have medical reasons for a twin zygosity test. Monozygotic twins have the same carbon copy of each other’s DNA profiles. For this reason they have the same blood groups which make them perfect blood donors to each other. This is important information to have on hand if there is ever a need for a blood transfusion. Similarly, the same applies to identical twins who donate organs to one another. Due to the shared and identical DNA, there is less likelihood of organ rejection.
One twin could potentially save the life of another!

The Australian Multiple Birth Association has a wealth of information about events during the awareness week, as well as a wide range of resources and helpful links. So this March, embrace the differences and similarities of our most unique and interesting DNA marvels; twins and multiples!

 

Ovarian Cancer Awareness 1

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Get Real and Dress in Teal.

We all know that cancer devastates the lives of so many people. It affects adults, children, fit people and the elderly, and it changes lives forever. It occurs in all parts of the body, and often goes undetected, or has few indicators of its presence.


\"\"In Australia, February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight this disease which takes the lives of around 3 women each day. This month is a timely reminder to be aware of the often undetectable signs, to educate yourself and others about the causes, share stories that inspire, and to support treatment and research.

Ovarian cancer has the lowest survival rate of any women’s cancer, and with no early detection test, it is vital that women are aware of the symptoms. These can include:

  • Abdominal bloating and persistent pelvic pain
  • A frequent need to urinate, or a need to urinate urgently, or
  • A full feeling after eating only a small amount

Anyone who is experiencing these symptoms, or has concerns, should follow up with their doctor as soon as possible.

Did you know that your genetics and family history play a part in whether or not you are at risk of developing ovarian cancer? According to Ovarian Cancer Australia, up to 17% of incidences of ovarian cancer are due to genetic factors.
If a woman has two or more relatives from the same side of the family affected by ovarian or breast cancer, her risk of developing the disease may be increased. This tends to be a result of an inherited faulty gene (BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation) that increases a woman’s risk of developing both ovarian and breast cancers.

\"\"One way to discover your predisposition is to undertake GTL’s Inherited Cancer Panel, to confirm if you carry the specific gene mutations that may be responsible for a range of cancers, including ovarian cancer. The test is as simple as getting a medical blood draw, from which your unique DNA is extracted and analysed. When you receive your results, they will reveal your genetic predisposition to a number of hereditary cancers, including ovarian, prostate, colorectal, and some skin cancers.

Teal Ribbon Day falls during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, on 26 February. There are four simple ways that you can support Teal Ribbon Day:

  • Buy a teal ribbon from Ovarian Cancer Australia
  • Paint the Town Teal: host a fundraising event with a teal theme. Wear teal, bake some teal-hued cupcakes, and decorate your workplace. Have a gold coin donation box for those who join you for tea!
  • Make a donation
  • Start the conversation: talk to friends, family and colleagues about the importance of being aware of the signs to look out for.

GTL is a proud advocate of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and Teal Ribbon Day.
Let’s all get the feel for teal this February!

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GTLDNA Awareness Month_ Bowel Caner_Genetic DNA

Howzat! Hit Bowel Cancer for a Six this Summer!

It’s Summer in Australia, which for many tragic (or dedicated) sports fans means one thing; cricket, cricket and more cricket. From the Boxing Day test to the 2020 Big Bash series, Aussies love watching their favourite players annihilate the Kiwis, and seeing their state victorious over their rival at the end of the season.

With a new year upon us, many people are reflecting on the past 12 months, and making promises to themselves to ‘have a better year’, to ‘drop some weight’, and to make their health more of a priority. A new year is truly 365 chances to live your best life, and commit to a healthier you.

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The Cancer Council South Australia has partnered with the Australian Cricket Big Bash League, with a cheeky fundraiser that will prove fun for everyone, while raising much needed funds for Australia’s second biggest killer, bowel cancer. The Cancer Council’s Undies Run will take place during the BBL game between the Adelaide Strikers and the Melbourne Renegades on January 12. All funds raised during this even will go towards research, advocacy and support programs for South Australians impacted by bowel cancer, which is the second leading cause of all deaths in the state.
All you have to do is register, fundraise your little heart out, and on game day, rock up in your brightest and best undies for a fun-filled event.

At the time of publishing, more than $21,000 had already been raised. If you’re not a runner, or, gasp! don’t wear undies, then you can sponsor a friend or even donate to a random participant.

There are many symptoms that indicate the onset of bowel cancer. These can include:

  • changes in bowel habits (including diarrhoea, constipation, thin bowel movements, or blood in the stools)
  • abdominal pain, bloating or cramping
  • anal or rectal pain
  • a lump in the anus or rectum
  • weight loss
  • fatigue

Additionally, there are a number of factors that predispose a person to developing bowel cancer, including being a smoker, being overweight or obese, excessive alcohol consumption, imflammatory bowel disease and a high consumption of red meat and processed meats. There is also a higher chance that you will develop the disease if you have an inherited genetic risk, or a family history of bowel cancer.

\"GTLAlthough you may not be fully able to prevent the onset of bowel cancer, there are a number of precautions you can take, which range from simple lifestyle changes, through to discovering your genetic predisposition to the disease, with a simple DNA test from GTL. The Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test assesses against more than 90 hereditary cancers, including bowel cancer.

DNA testing is the only way to confirm whether or not a person carries certain hereditary gene mutations that may be responsible for certain cancers. The Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test is used by our clients to identify the gene mutations that are responsible for hereditary cancers within the family, and to determine which family members could be at risk.

So celebrate the new year with an undie run to raise money for bowel cancer, and become aware of your body, and take note of any changes in your colorectal health. Check your predisposition to bowel cancer with GTL, and you will be well on your way to saving the lives of others and maybe even yourself.

GTL_DNA-cancer awareness dna

Go Purple for Pancreatic Cancer.

The pancreas. It’s an organ we’ve all heard of, but probably don’t know much about. Located in the abdomen behind the stomach, and about 15cm in length, it may be obscure, but it is a vital part of the digestive system, producing fuel for our bodies from the foods that we eat. With two main functions; aiding in digestion, and regulating blood sugar, the pancreas is essential for a healthy life.

\"\"Sometimes however, as with all organs in the body, things can go wrong. Pancreatic cancer ranks in the top ten of most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australia, and unfortunately, has a very low survival rate of 8.7% in the five years after diagnosis and treatment.
Left untreated, pancreatic cancer can spread rapidly to the other abdominal organs, on to the lymphatic system, and eventually on to the other organs in the body. Pancreatic cancer affects more men than women, and sadly, almost half a million people are diagnosed worldwide each year.
This equates to 1200 people each day hearing the sad news that they have been diagnosed with this life changing disease. These people are our parents, our siblings, and our friends, and we all have the ability to learn more about this type of cancer, and to raise much needed funds to help those affected.

In Australia, December is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month a time to focus on raising awareness and funds into research that will improve current survival outcomes. With a purple theme, supporters can participate in a number of events, which range from purchasing merchandise, making donations, sharing experiences with others, through to hosting a fundraising event either in your home or workplace.

There are a number of things that are known to exacerbate pancreatic cancer, including excessive smoking, diabetes, chronic and continual pancreatitis, and a family history of pancreatic, ovarian or colon cancer.

\"\"Around 5-10% of pancreatic cancer can be attributed to genetic causes, which means that one or two in every twenty people will have an increased risk of developing this devastating disease.
Although you may not be able to prevent the onset of pancreatic cancer, as there is no early detection test, you can discover your genetic predisposition to the disease, with a simple DNA test from GTL. The Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test assesses against more than 90 hereditary cancers, including pancreatic cancer.

DNA testing is the only way to confirm whether or not a person carries certain hereditary gene mutations that may be responsible for certain cancers. The Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test is used by our clients to identify the gene mutations that are responsible for hereditary cancers within the family, and to determine which family members could be at risk.

Additionally, there are a number of symptoms that could indicate pancreatic cancer. These include, but are not limited to; indigestion, appetite loss, nausea/vomiting, pain in the upper abdomen, side or back that is severe enough to wake you up at night, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin).

So this December, become aware of your body, and take note of any changes in your abdominal health. Check your predisposition to pancreatic cancer with GTL, and get involved in the purple themed awareness campaign that could just save a life one day.

GTL_DNA_AUS-Child_DNA_Blog

Miracle babies: Celebrate the most precious gift.

There is nothing more exciting than the impending arrival of a baby. Nine months of preparation, waiting impatiently, wondering if your newborn grow up to be a daddy’s girl or a mummy’s boy, playing the name game. Will it be an Oliver, a Jack, a Lauren or an Emily?

\"\"Even though the usual gestation time for humans is 40 weeks, it’s not an exact science, and sometimes, things don’t run according to plan. Some babies arrive late, with a bit of coaxing, and some babies are keen to make their entrance into the world at a more hurried pace.

Babies who are born early are known as premature babies. This term is used to define any baby born alive before the completion of 37 weeks of pregnancy.
According to the World Health Organisation, around 15 million babies are born prematurely each year, with approximately one million of these children die due to complications, and many that do survive are faced with a range of disabilities, ranging from intellectual, to visual and hearing deficits.

Preterm births are the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Preterm birth can run in families, and studies of more than 600 infant genomes suggest that a genetic anomaly within both the mother and the foetus may contribute to early births.

For those who may have a history of premature birth in their family, GTL offers a suite of DNA tests that provide an insight into your predisposition to a number of genetic conditions.
The Prenatal Peace DNA test is for those who want peace of mind during pregnancy. This screening test is 100% non-invasive and safe, testing for 18 genetic conditions, using a simple blood sample. It is important to note that Prenatal Peace is a screening test and not a diagnostic test. This test cannot replace diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling although it can help pregnant women avoid the need to undergo these tests.

World Prematurity Day falls on 17 November this year. It is a day to raise awareness of the problems associated with preterm babies, to recognise the amazing parents and medical practitioners who care for them, and to highlight the measures that can help to lower and eventually prevent preterm birth. As part of the recognition, families are encouraged to ‘Light it up Purple’, and light a purple candle to show your support for this unique and important day. Why stop at just a candle, light your house, workplace or even yourself purple for the day!
\"\"You can also make financial donations through Life’s Little Treasures, or Miracle Babies, two organisations dedicated to supporting families of preterm babies.

GTL is a proud supporter of World Prematurity Day, and our staff will be decked out in purple as advocates of these amazing babies, children and families.

GTL_Caner_Awareness_Breast

Think pink this October!

Of all the disease and illness awareness initiatives we have in Australia, none is more familiar, nor closer to our hearts, than that of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which runs from October 1 – 31. It is a time to put the focus on the disease, those affected by it, and the research being done to help one day find a cure.

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Imagine this. You’re in your 30’s, a mother of two beautiful children, you’re fit and active, the poster girl for every woman. Life is good, you have no concerns about your health.
Then, what’s that? Feels like a lump. Just under my breast, on the right hand side. I’ve never felt that before. Has it always been there and I just haven’t noticed it, or is it new? After a second opinion at her GP, and a referral to a specialist followed by ultrasounds MRIs and a biopsy, breast cancer became a scary reality for Michelle Campbell from Burleigh Heads in Queensland.
“I couldn’t believe it at first, I thought that cancer was something that only happened to other people,” says Michelle. “I’m the kind of person who takes things in their stride, so I just made a decision to fight it hard from Day 1.”

Michelle’s cancer was more aggressive than she originally thought, and required a partial mastectomy in addition to two rounds of chemotherapy. “The side effects of the chemo were the most difficult to come to terms with, I’d truly never wish it on my worst enemy.”
Happily, today Michelle is a picture of health. She has gone on to become a mother to two more children, she has regained her health, and is back to being an active, busy woman. She regularly participates in awareness and fundraising events such as Relay for Life, and celebrates her strength in beating this devastating disease.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with around 12,500 women being diagnosed each year in Australia alone. Although rarely seen in men, it does exist, affecting around 1%.
Despite a marked improvement in survival rates for breast cancer, it still has the capacity to change, impact and devastate the lives of so many.
The best chance to fight and survive breast cancer is early detection, and women are encouraged to note any changes in their breasts, including:
• any kind of lump, especially if it’s only in one breast
• a change in the size or shape of your breast
• any changes to the nipple, including discharge
• a change in the skin texture of your breast such as redness or dimpling
• breast pain that doesn’t go away.
Early detection is often the difference between keeping or losing a breast (although sometimes, a partial or full mastectomy is the best or only option), and can even prolong your life.

\"\"GTL can assist in the early detection process, with their BRCA1 & BRCA2 Screening Test which analyses the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes are commonly called ‘tumour suppressors’, and mutations can increase the risk of breast cancer. Tumour suppressor genes essentially prevent cells from dividing too rapidly, so when a mutation of the genes occurs, there is a failure to control and protect the genetic material within the cells, which can lead to breast, ovarian, pancreatic and endometrial cancer.
As many as 5-10% of all breast cancers and 20-25% of hereditary breast cancers are caused by mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. GTL also offers the Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test, which can establish your genetic risk of developing a number of hereditary cancers, including breast cancer. Research shows that people with inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes develop cancer at younger ages than those who do not have these mutations, so the earlier a test is performed, the better chance of an early detection and treatment.

GTL’s genetic screening test involves a simple blood test, and using Next Generation Sequencing Technology, extracts the DNA from the blood cells, then analyses the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. It should be noted that the test requires a referral from your GP, but once you order the test, GTL will send you all necessary paperwork for you and your GP to complete.

Even though the subject of breast cancer is always serious, there are ways that you can help that are fun, informative and worthwhile. Throughout the month of October, how about hosting a pink themed fundraiser like a breakfast (bacon, and pink champagne, anyone?), a Pretty in Pink movie night, or simply have a dress in pink day in your workplace, raising funds for breast and other cancers specific to women. Check out the range of event on close to you on the Cancer Council’s Fundraising Page.

GTL values the health of women of all ages, and will be getting in the spirit of pink this October!

GTLDNA_Cancer_Awareness_Month_Prostate

Donations and DNA Tests Can Save Lives

In Australia, it is estimated that this year alone, more than 140,000 people will be diagnosed with some type of cancer, and that almost 50,000 deaths will be attributed to this deadly disease.
We all know that cancer is a killer. It doesn’t discriminate. Cancer doesn’t care if you are rich or poor, if you are fit and strong, if you are young or old, or if you’re male or female.
Did you know that prostate cancer is the cause of more than 3500 deaths in Australia each year?
\"\"Sadly, 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, which is the second most common cancer in men.
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the need for improved research, diagnosis, treatment and outcomes surrounding prostate cancer.  So, what is the prostate, and why don’t men want to talk about it?
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder in front of the rectum. It is usually the size of a walnut, and is responsible for producing some of the fluid in semen.
As a man ages, the prostate can become larger, which causes problems as it affects the other vital organs associated with eliminating waste, and can affect a man’s sexual performance.
This is probably the main reason that men are often unwilling to have a conversation or visit a doctor if things don’t seem to be working as usual.
Prostate issues should not be a taboo topic, and any changes should result in prompt action.
Make an appointment with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

  • Frequent passing of urine
  • A slow flow, or interrupted passing of urine
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Incontinence
  • Blood in urine
  • Pain passing urine
  • Persistent pain in the lower back or pelvic area.

Although prostate cancer is discovered predominantly in men over the age of 50, there really is no better feeling than peace of mind for men of all ages. GTL can help to provide this, with the Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test.

\"\"This test analyses your DNA to discover your risk of developing a number of hereditary cancers, including prostate cancer. Screening for the most common cancer causing mutations, the panel analyses over 130 genes associated with hereditary cancers, confirming whether or not you carry the genetic mutations. 

By evaluating a blood sample that contains your unique DNA, our laboratory scientists provide you with results that can be a valuable tool in reducing your risk of certain cancers. If your results indicate that you are at a higher risk of prostate cancer, then you should establish regular check-ups with your doctor or specialist. Early intervention and preventative measures can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a statistic.

While you’re waiting for your results, why not get your mates together for a Big Aussie BBQ, a year round initiative which aims to get men together in a non-threatening, social way to talk about their experiences, fears and questions they may have about prostate cancer. What better way to start a conversation about a sensitive issue than with beers, BBQ, and buddies? You can host a BBQ, donate, or sponsor a mate.
GTL is a proud advocate of Prostate Cancer Awareness Week, and our staff will be hosting backyard BBQs to raise the profile of this devastating disease.

Jeans For Jean Awareness

Break out the double denim! It’s Jeans for Genes Day!

Did you know that one in twenty children in Australia are faced with a genetic condition or birth defect?

Sadly, there is currently no available cure for many of these conditions, meaning that thousands of children go through their lives suffering the effects of their disease or defect, and often missing out on a traditional childhood.

\"\"Research into the cure for genetic conditions is often largely funded by donations from the public, which often means that finding a cure for even one disorder can take years longer due to lack of funding. 25 years ago, the Children’s Medical Research Institute started Jeans for Genes Day, a fundraising and awareness campaign aimed at helping raise the profile of a number of genetic conditions, as well as raising money to fund research into these conditions that destroy the lives of many Australian families.

Since 1994, everyday people have been raising much needed funds in a number of fun ways that everyone can enjoy. In 2019, Jeans for Genes Day is on August 2, and there are endless ways that you can raise money, donate, and support children with genetic conditions.

These include:

  • Host a ‘free dress’ day at your school or workplace. For a gold coin donation (or more!), break out your best acid wash denim jeans, or be bold and go head to toe for that double denim look we all love.
  • Organise a blue themed morning tea! Make it fun with lots of blue hued goodies to eat. Blue cupcake, anyone? The Jeans for Genes website has a range of merchandise that you can order for sale on the day, and throughout the campaign.
  • Are you a bit of a homebody? Too embarrassed to show off your favourite ripped jeans in public? Why not host a denim themed party? As your guests for a donation as cover charge to your event, then enjoy a night of blue cocktails and maybe some genetic trivia!

The staff at GTL love any excuse to kick up their heels, and will be holding blue themed events on the day, proudly supporting this amazing campaign, which has led to the continuation of vital research projects, and an increased understanding of many genetic conditions.

GTL offers a suite of DNA tests that provide an insight into your predisposition to a number of genetic conditions. The Prenatal Peace DNA test is for those who want peace of mind during pregnancy. This screening test is 100% non-invasive and safe, testing for Down Syndrome and 17 other genetic conditions, using a simple blood sample.

The Newborn Genetic Test with NOVA screens your precious new addition for the risk of obtaining 50 inherited disorders. This test can be performed on infants through to five year olds, and provides a comprehensive analysis based on your child’s unique DNA.

Cancer, one of our most common and deadly diseases, occurs when one or more genes are damaged. Not all forms of cancer are inherited, but if a copy of a cancer gene is passed on to the child, then the risk of getting cancer is drastically increased. The Cancer Panel Genetic Predisposition Test  can be used to identify gene mutations responsible for hereditary cancers, and to determine which family members may be at risk.

\"\"These are just some of the genetic screening tests that are offered by GTL.
For ultimate peace of mind, a multi-faceted approach to understanding about the health of your children and the whole family is a good way to ensure you have the knowledge and resources needed to manage a genetic condition. 
So get a DNA test, and while you’re waiting for the results, put on your best blue denim and get involved with Jeans for Genes Day on August 2.


predisposition_diabetes

It’s about time to discover your predisposition to Diabetes – we won’t sugar coat your results.

It might take you around 5 minutes to read this article. During that time, one person in our country will develop Diabetes. And in the 5 minutes after that, another person will develop diabetes. And so on, until the end of the day, when an average of 280 Australians will have developed this serious and life-threatening disease.

\"\"Around 1.7 million people in Australia have diabetes, and worldwide, the number sits at more than 400 million. It is a major cause of blindness, lower limb amputation, kidney failure, and heart attack, and contributes to around 10% of deaths nationwide. 

So what is this killer disease? Diabetes occurs when a person fails to maintain an optimal level of glucose in the blood. Glucose is a form of sugar, and is the main source of energy needed by our bodies. In a healthy body, the glucose from the food we eat is converted into energy, by a hormone called insulin. In a diabetic body, there is little to no insulin produced to convert the sugar into energy. This results in the glucose staying in the blood. Blood glucose levels must be monitored regularly, so that they do not rise too high, or drop too low. An elevated or diminished blood sugar reading can produce serious side effects that need to be treated immediately.

There are 2 main types of diabetes:
Type 1: an autoimmune condition where the pancreas does not produce insulin. People with Type 1 diabetes rely on insulin injections to survive. Without insulin, the body starts breaking down its own fats, releasing chemical substances into the blood. These chemicals can accumulate and have serious health implications for the sufferer.

Type 2: this form of diabetes happens over time, and is essentially the body becoming resistant to the normal effects of insulin, or, the body losing the ability to produce enough insulin to keep a person healthy. The body reacts by producing much more insulin than the body needs, but this effectively wears out the pancreas and greatly reduces the number of insulin-producing cells.

\"\"There is a strong genetic predisposition to both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, so knowing your family health history can be a great benefit in planning for your healthy future. Having open conversations with family members can open up a world of knowledge about the types of conditions that you may be more susceptible to.
GTL DNA’s Genetic Predisposition Test carefully analyses your DNA against key markers associated with the development of more than 30 diseases and conditions, including diabetes. This test is painless and simple, requiring only a mouth swab to analyze your DNA. Everything will be sent directly to your door in our comprehensive kit, which includes full instructions.
Your results will comprise of a personalized report that provides valuable information as to whether you are ranked at a high, medium or low risk of developing a given condition during your lifetime.

While you are waiting for your results to be returned to you, you can educate yourself further about how to prevent and manage diabetes at Diabetes Australia. National Diabetes Week kicks off in Australia on 14 July, encouraging everyone to take some ‘me time’, a time to rest and educate yourself about the early signs of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The It’s About Time website has a range of resources and information that can help you get up to speed about all forms of diabetes. Share your story on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, share the official video to involve others, or make a donation to Diabetes Australia.
It’s important to take some time out for ourselves every now and then, so put yourself at the top of your ‘to-do’ list, and make the most of your ‘me time’ this July with a GTL Genetic Predisposition Test, and the wonderful resources provided by Diabetes Australia.

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