Polygenic Risk Scores

The polygenic risk scores we run in our health reports. Each one combines thousands of genetic variants to estimate risk for a specific trait or condition.

High cholesterol

High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, is a condition where there is too much cholesterol in the blood. Excess cholesterol can build up in artery walls, forming plaques that narrow blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is influenced by both genetics and lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise.

Hypercholesterolemia

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs and feet. They occur when valves in the veins weaken, causing blood to pool and the veins to swell. While often a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes cause aching, discomfort, and more serious circulatory problems.

Eczema, dermatitis

Eczema and dermatitis refer to a group of conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed, itchy, and red. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form, often starting in childhood. It is driven by a combination of genetic factors affecting the skin barrier and immune system, along with environmental triggers.

Eczematoid dermatitis

Essential hypertension

Essential hypertension is persistently elevated blood pressure without an identifiable underlying cause. It is the most common form of high blood pressure, affecting roughly one in three adults. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and other complications.

essential hypertension

Hypothyroidism/myxoedema

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and depression. The most common cause is autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's disease), and it is typically managed with thyroid hormone replacement.

Feelings of worry or anxiety

This score relates to the tendency to experience feelings of worry or anxiety. Anxiety is a normal response to stress, but when it becomes persistent or disproportionate, it can interfere with daily life. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to how prone a person is to anxious feelings.

anxiety measurement

worry measurement

Non melanoma skin cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancer includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common types of skin cancer. They typically develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin and grow slowly. While rarely life-threatening, they can cause significant local tissue damage if not treated.

non-melanoma skin carcinoma

Snoring

Snoring is the sound produced by vibrating tissues in the upper airway during sleep. It is very common and usually harmless, but frequent loud snoring can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Both anatomy and lifestyle factors influence snoring.

snoring measurement

11,428 variants

Chronotype (morning/evening person)

Chronotype describes an individual's natural preference for being active during the morning or evening. 'Morning people' tend to wake up early and feel most alert in the first half of the day, while 'evening people' prefer to stay up late and feel more productive later. Chronotype is strongly influenced by genetics and changes with age.

chronotype measurement

Usual walking pace

Usual walking pace is a measure of how fast a person typically walks. It reflects overall physical fitness, muscle strength, and cardiovascular health. A slower habitual walking pace has been associated with higher risks of cardiovascular disease and shorter life expectancy.

physical activity measurement

Alcohol intake frequency

Alcohol intake frequency measures how often a person consumes alcoholic beverages. Drinking patterns are influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition, cultural factors, and personal habits. Genetics can affect alcohol metabolism, taste preferences, and susceptibility to alcohol use disorder.

alcohol consumption quality

Hair color, black

This score predicts the likelihood of having black hair color. Hair color is determined by the type and amount of melanin pigment produced in hair follicles. It is one of the most heritable human traits, primarily controlled by genes involved in the melanin production pathway.

strand of hair color

Hair color, blonde

This score predicts the likelihood of having blonde hair color. Blonde hair results from lower levels of the dark pigment eumelanin in hair follicles. It is most common in populations of Northern European descent and is influenced by several genes, particularly variants near the MC1R and KITLG genes.

strand of hair color

Hair color, brown

This score predicts the likelihood of having brown hair color. Brown hair is the most common hair color worldwide, resulting from moderate levels of eumelanin pigment. Multiple genetic variants contribute to the spectrum of brown hair shades.

strand of hair color

Hair color, dark brown

This score predicts the likelihood of having dark brown hair color. Dark brown hair is produced by higher concentrations of eumelanin compared to lighter brown shades. Hair color genetics involve dozens of genes that collectively determine pigment production and distribution.

strand of hair color

Hair color, light brown

This score predicts the likelihood of having light brown hair color. Light brown hair sits between blonde and medium brown on the pigmentation spectrum. The variation is determined by subtle differences in melanin production controlled by multiple genetic variants.

strand of hair color

Hair color, red

This score predicts the likelihood of having red hair color. Red hair is caused by variants in the MC1R gene that shift melanin production toward the reddish pigment pheomelanin. It is the rarest natural hair color, found in approximately 1-2% of the global population.

strand of hair color

27,396 variants

Body fat percentage

Body fat percentage is the proportion of total body mass that is composed of fat tissue. It is a key indicator of metabolic health, with very high or very low levels both associated with health risks. Genetics influence how the body stores and distributes fat, though diet and physical activity also play major roles.

body fat percentage

25,651 variants

Body fat percentage (trunk fat)

Trunk fat percentage measures the proportion of fat stored in the torso region, including the abdomen and chest. Fat stored around the internal organs in the trunk (visceral fat) is more strongly linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome than fat stored in other areas of the body.

body fat percentage

12,644 variants

Right hand grip strength

Grip strength measures the force exerted by the hand when squeezing. It is a widely used indicator of overall muscular strength and has been associated with cardiovascular health, functional independence in aging, and all-cause mortality. Both genetics and physical activity levels influence grip strength.

grip strength measurement

Coffee intake

Coffee intake measures the amount of coffee a person typically consumes. Genetics influence both the metabolism of caffeine and the perceived taste and reward from drinking coffee. Variants in genes like CYP1A2 and AHR affect how quickly caffeine is broken down, which in turn influences consumption patterns.

coffee consumption measurement

12,310 variants

Never Smoker

This score relates to the likelihood of being a never-smoker. Whether a person starts or avoids smoking is influenced by genetic factors affecting nicotine metabolism, reward sensitivity, and personality traits, alongside social and environmental factors.

smoking status measurement

14,103 variants

Diastolic BP (AR)

Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats. It is the lower number in a blood pressure reading. Persistently elevated diastolic blood pressure contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

diastolic blood pressure

15,481 variants

Systolic BP (AR)

Systolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries during the heart's contraction. It is the upper number in a blood pressure reading and is considered the more important predictor of cardiovascular events, particularly in people over 50. Both genetics and lifestyle influence blood pressure levels.

systolic blood pressure

Facial ageing (looking younger than you are)

This score relates to facial aging, specifically the tendency to appear younger than one's chronological age. How quickly the face shows signs of aging depends on genetic factors influencing skin elasticity, pigmentation, and cellular repair mechanisms, as well as environmental exposures like sun and smoking.

Sleep duration

Sleep duration is the typical amount of time a person spends sleeping per night. Both unusually short and long sleep durations have been linked to adverse health outcomes including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and impaired cognitive function. Genetic factors play a significant role in natural sleep needs.

sleep duration trait

Monocyte count

Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune system. They help fight infections by engulfing pathogens and also participate in tissue repair and inflammation. Monocyte count is routinely measured in blood tests and can be elevated in infections, autoimmune conditions, and certain cancers.

34,486 variants

Whole body fat free mass

Fat-free mass, also called lean body mass, is the total weight of all body tissue excluding fat. It includes muscle, bone, organs, and water. Higher fat-free mass is generally associated with better metabolic health, greater physical strength, and improved functional capacity.

12,579 variants

Eosinophil count

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in fighting parasitic infections and in allergic responses. Elevated eosinophil counts can occur with allergies, asthma, and certain autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Eosinophil count is a standard component of a complete blood count test.

eosinophil count

15,578 variants

Neutrophil count

Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and form the first line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections. Neutrophil count is routinely measured in blood tests. Abnormally high or low levels can indicate infection, inflammation, bone marrow disorders, or immune system conditions.

neutrophil count

15,141 variants

Lung function (FEV1/FVC)

FEV1/FVC ratio is a measure of lung function that compares the volume of air exhaled in the first second of a forced breath (FEV1) to the total volume exhaled (FVC). A reduced ratio indicates obstructive airway disease such as asthma or COPD. Both genetic factors and environmental exposures like smoking affect lung function.

Lymphocyte count

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell central to the adaptive immune system, including T cells and B cells. They are responsible for recognizing and remembering specific pathogens, producing antibodies, and killing infected cells. Lymphocyte count is an important indicator of immune system function.

lymphocyte count

24,114 variants

Mean platelet volume

Mean platelet volume (MPV) measures the average size of platelets in the blood. Larger platelets are generally more active in clotting. MPV is used alongside platelet count to help evaluate bleeding disorders, bone marrow function, and inflammatory conditions.

platelet volume

17,311 variants

Mean corpuscular volume

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a measure of the average size of red blood cells. It is a key value in diagnosing types of anemia: a high MCV suggests vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, while a low MCV may indicate iron deficiency or thalassemia.

erythrocyte volume

25,538 variants

Waist circumference

Waist circumference is a measurement of the distance around the abdomen at the level of the navel. It is a simple indicator of central adiposity and visceral fat accumulation. Larger waist circumference is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.

waist circumference

27,126 variants

Body mass index (BMI)

Body mass index (BMI) is calculated from a person's weight and height and is widely used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. While it does not directly measure body fat, higher BMI is generally associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other conditions.

body mass index

51,209 variants

Standing height

Standing height is one of the most heritable human traits, with genetics accounting for roughly 80% of variation between individuals. It is determined by the combined effect of thousands of genetic variants, each contributing a small amount, along with nutrition and health during growth and development.

10,055 variants

Fluid intelligence score

Fluid intelligence is the capacity to reason and solve novel problems independent of previously acquired knowledge. It involves pattern recognition, logical reasoning, and abstract thinking. Fluid intelligence is partly heritable and tends to peak in early adulthood before gradually declining with age.

14,455 variants

Heart rate (AR)

Heart rate, or pulse, is the number of times the heart beats per minute. Resting heart rate is an indicator of cardiovascular fitness: lower rates generally reflect a more efficient heart. Both genetics and factors like fitness level, stress, and medications influence resting heart rate.

24,893 variants

Platelet count

Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that are essential for clotting and wound healing. Platelet count measures the number of platelets per volume of blood. Abnormally low counts increase bleeding risk, while high counts can raise the risk of blood clots.

13,785 variants

White blood cell count

White blood cells (leukocytes) are the cells of the immune system that defend the body against infections and foreign invaders. White blood cell count is a standard measure of immune function. Elevated counts can indicate infection or inflammation, while low counts may signal immune deficiency or bone marrow problems.

leukocyte quantity

20,480 variants

Red blood cell count

Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body and return carbon dioxide for exhalation. Red blood cell count is a routine blood test value. Low counts may indicate anemia, while high counts can occur with dehydration, lung disease, or bone marrow disorders.

erythrocyte count

Ease of skin tanning (never tan, only burn)

This score relates to the tendency of skin to tan versus burn when exposed to sunlight. Tanning response depends on the type and amount of melanin produced in the skin. People who burn easily and rarely tan have less protective melanin and are at higher risk for sun damage and skin cancer.

Gout

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in joints, most commonly the big toe. It causes sudden, severe episodes of pain, swelling, and redness. Genetics strongly influence uric acid levels in the blood, and lifestyle factors like diet and alcohol intake can trigger flare-ups.

Gallstones

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder. They can range in size and may cause no symptoms, or they can block bile ducts, causing intense abdominal pain, nausea, and inflammation. Risk factors include obesity, rapid weight loss, female sex, and genetic predisposition.

Hayfever/allergic rhinitis

Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an allergic reaction to airborne substances like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes. It affects up to 30% of adults and is influenced by both genetic susceptibility and environmental allergen exposure.

seasonal allergic rhinitis

Deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can cause leg pain and swelling and is dangerous because the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Risk factors include prolonged immobility, surgery, genetics, and certain medications.

deep vein thrombosis

Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. It causes pain and stiffness and can eventually lead to fusion of the vertebrae. It has a very strong genetic component, particularly the HLA-B27 gene, and typically begins in early adulthood.

ankylosing spondylitis

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath covering nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This disrupts communication between the brain and body, causing symptoms like fatigue, numbness, vision problems, and difficulty with coordination and balance.

multiple sclerosis

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak and brittle, significantly increasing fracture risk. It develops when the creation of new bone doesn't keep up with the loss of old bone. It is most common in postmenopausal women and is influenced by genetics, calcium intake, physical activity, and hormone levels.

Migraine

Migraine is a neurological condition characterized by intense, recurring headaches often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances (aura). Migraines affect about 15% of the population and are more common in women. Genetics account for a substantial portion of susceptibility.

migraine disorder

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions involving inflammation of the digestive tract. The two main forms are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fatigue, and weight loss. IBD has a strong genetic component alongside environmental triggers.

inflammatory bowel disease

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by wear and tear of joint cartilage over time. It most frequently affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Risk factors include age, obesity, joint injuries, and genetic predisposition.

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a small organ in males that produces seminal fluid. It is one of the most common cancers in men. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and may not cause serious harm, but some forms are aggressive. Family history and genetics are among the strongest risk factors.

prostate carcinoma

Type 2 diabetes (T2D)

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition in which the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. It is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90% of cases. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, physical inactivity, and age.

type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 1 diabetes (T1D)

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Unlike type 2 diabetes, it usually develops in childhood or adolescence and requires lifelong insulin therapy. It has a strong genetic component, particularly involving genes in the HLA region.

type 1 diabetes mellitus

Cataract

A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye, leading to blurred vision and eventual vision loss if untreated. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide and are most commonly associated with aging. Genetics, UV exposure, diabetes, and smoking all contribute to cataract risk.

Melanoma (malignant)

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, developing from the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin. It can spread rapidly to other parts of the body if not detected early. Risk factors include UV exposure, fair skin, many moles, family history, and genetic predisposition.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the innermost lining of the colon and rectum. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and urgency. It involves an abnormal immune response and has a significant genetic component.

ulcerative colitis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing painful swelling, joint deformity, and bone erosion. It most commonly affects the small joints of the hands and feet and has a strong genetic component, particularly involving HLA genes.

rheumatoid arthritis

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, forming thick, red, scaly patches that can be itchy and painful. It affects about 2-3% of the population and has a strong genetic basis, with environmental triggers such as stress and infections.

Myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a blood clot in a coronary artery. The lack of blood supply causes heart tissue to die. Major risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and genetic predisposition.

myocardial infarction

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to abnormally high pressure inside the eye. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, particularly in older adults. Because it usually progresses gradually without early symptoms, regular eye exams are important for early detection.

Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, though it most commonly involves the end of the small intestine. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. It has a significant genetic component.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause airflow obstruction and breathing difficulties. Smoking is the primary cause, but genetic factors, including alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, also play a role.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is a cancer that forms in the cells of the breast. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. While most breast cancers are sporadic, approximately 5-10% are linked to inherited genetic mutations, and polygenic risk also plays a meaningful role in overall susceptibility.

breast carcinoma

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm originating in the heart's upper chambers (atria). It increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular complications. Risk factors include age, high blood pressure, obesity, and genetic predisposition.

atrial fibrillation

Asthma (diagnosed by doctor)

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrowed, causing wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. It affects people of all ages but often starts in childhood. Both genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers such as allergens and pollution contribute to asthma risk.

Alzheimer's disease (algorithmically-defined)

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia. It leads to gradual memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. While age is the greatest risk factor, genetics play a significant role, with the APOE gene being the strongest common genetic risk factor.

Alzheimer disease

Basophil count

Basophils are the rarest type of white blood cell, playing a role in allergic reactions and defense against parasites. They release histamine and other chemicals during immune responses. Basophil count is measured as part of a complete blood count and can be elevated in allergic conditions and certain blood disorders.

15,602 variants

Haemoglobin concentration

Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Haemoglobin concentration is a key blood test value: low levels indicate anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness, while high levels may occur with dehydration, lung disease, or polycythemia.

hemoglobin measurement

Heel bone mineral density (BMD) (L)

Heel bone mineral density (BMD) measures the density of minerals, primarily calcium, in the heel bone (calcaneus). It is used as a screening tool for osteoporosis and fracture risk. Lower BMD indicates weaker bones that are more prone to fractures. Genetics, calcium intake, physical activity, and hormones all influence BMD.

heel bone mineral density

Scores sourced from the PGS Catalog . 72 scores shown.