The Secrets in our Genes

Genomic sequencing tests can reveal much about your unique physiology. But are they worth it?

- Swati Sanyal Tarafdar, Ishani Nandi

One evening in 2014, Alice Syam was wandering through queueing crowds and lively stalls at an exhibition in Pune with her husband when an executive approached her. “He said that a woman of my size would greatly benefit from a unique health test they had to offer,” she laughs. At 85 kgs, Alice was tall, well-built, and least worried about her weight or proportions. She was, however, bothered by persistent body ache, joint pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and a host of other health concerns that had plagued her over the years. Just a few months ago, she self-diagnosed these as symptoms of gluten intolerance after reading an article on Novak Djokovic’s experience with gluten sensitivity and celiac disease.

“At that time, the test proposed by the executive cost ₹17,000. I was wary of spending such a large amount on something that we didn’t much know about. My husband however was intrigued and insisted I try it,” Alice, now 66, says. She signed up and a few days later a medical team from the company visited their home to take her mouth swab samples.

After 15 days a hefty report was delivered by a doctor who patiently explained to Alice what the findings meant. “We were shocked. According to the analysis, I was severely lactose intolerant. There I was happily drinking my chai latte and milk tea three times a day all my life. It explained many of the ailments I wrongly ascribed to gluten, and why going gluten-free didn’t improve my condition,” said Alice.

The results identified intolerances and sensitivities specific to her body which allowed her to make meaningful changes that improved her life and health. “The test was an eye-opener,” says Alice. “It also explained why my mother had suffered gastric issues—loose motions, bloating and acidity—for over 60 years of her life and no treatment beyond the temporary was able to help her heal,” she added.