Consumer genomics recognises that health is an intricate interplay between genetics and lifestyle. Access to personal genomic information empowers individuals to personalise their health and lifestyle, leading to tangible and measurable changes. Embracing a genome-based lifestyle can yield substantial impacts on individual health, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
Estimates of the global direct-to-consumer – genetic testing market vary. A recent research by Zion Market Research suggests the market size will grow from $12 billion to $22 billion with a 15% CAGR. As per Research and Markets, the Indian Genetic Testing Market was valued at $61 million in 2022 and is estimated to grow with a CAGR of 6.94% over 2018-28 and reach $91 million in 2028.
The increased awareness about the role genetic makeup plays in mainstream healthcare, nutrition, and personality enhancement, along with the surge in direct-to-consumer testing has contributed immensely to its growth.
Personal genomics (drug response profile, nutritional needs, predisposition), diagnostics (preconception screening), nutrigenomics (DNA-based dietary plans), fitness, sport, paternity, ancestry, and pharmacogenomics (the role of genetics in a patient’s reaction to drugs) are some of the tests that biotech companies offer to the general public.
Health and wellness: Knowledge of genetic predispositions to certain health conditions can empower individuals to make informed lifestyle choices. Genetic testing for conditions like cardiovascular diseases or diabetes can prompt proactive measures such as tailored diets, exercise regimens, and preventive screenings.Fitness and athletic performance: Genetic factors contribute to an individual’s athletic abilities, including aspects like muscle composition, oxygen utilisation, and injury susceptibility. Understanding genetic traits related to fitness can help in designing personalised workout routines and nutrition plans to optimise performance.Nutrition and diet: Genetics influence how our bodies process and metabolise nutrients. Personalised nutrition plans based on genetic information, such as genetic variations affecting lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or metabolism of certain foods, can aid in optimising diets for better health outcomes.
Personalised medicine – By combining genetics and healthcare, personalised medicine holds promise for delivering targeted and effective interventions tailored to each person’s unique genetic makeup. This approach has the potential to revolutionise healthcare delivery, improving patient outcomes and minimising adverse effects.
Mental health: Genetic predispositions can contribute to mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia. While genetics is only one factor influencing mental health, understanding these predispositions can assist in early intervention strategies and personalised treatment approaches. According to the WHO 2022 Report, 5.6 crore Indians suffer from depression and 3.8 crore from anxiety disorders. Overall, it is estimated that 6-7 % of the Indian population suffers and receives a mental illness diagnosis. The alarming rise in stress, anxiety, and major depressive disorders in recent years have ushered a new era of cognitive enhancement and mental health interventions.
Personality and behavioural Genetics: The personality development start-up landscape is going through a renaissance as individuals recognize the importance of holistic self-improvement. These start-ups offer a variety of services ranging from traditional soft skills training to cutting-edge mental health and well-being programs. The global personality assessment solutions market is poised to grow at a CAGR of 12.8% from 2021 to 2031 to reach $22.5 billion. Similarly, the global personal development market comprising self-awareness, mental health, skills enhancement, etc. is estimated to grow at 5.5% CAGR to reach $67billion by 2030.
Approximately 29,000 scientific papers show that genes influence personality. Genes provide the blueprint for organising the brain’s function. And as the brain develops and interacts with the environment, it influences our personality. How individuals differ in their personalities, temperament, and intellectual abilities are to a large extent influenced by genetic inheritance. The advancements in behavioural genetics hold tremendous potential to offer innovative solutions for educational and career support as well as recruitment purposes.
Knowledge of individuals’ inherent strengths and capabilities at the genetic level, helps these startups to provide custom-fit development plans that align with an individual’s unique attributes. The integration of genetic data into personality development initiatives represents a revolutionary approach to self-discovery.
Learning and cognitive abilities: Genetic factors influence cognitive abilities and learning styles to some extent. Identifying genetic markers associated with learning disabilities or cognitive strengths can aid in personalised educational approaches, interventions, and learning strategies. By offering tailored strategies for effective learning, personalised genomics has the potential to revolutionise education, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs are met.
The startup ecosystem has a fantastic chance to influence citizens’ health care and lifestyle decisions, promote a culture that prioritises wellness and makes genuine impact in society. By unlocking the potential of our genetic blueprints, we can transform health and lifestyle for a brighter and healthier tomorrow.
The author is CEO and Founder of GENLEAP.
