We recently had the privilege of interviewing Maria Antonela Axinte, Founder of DNA Longevity, genetic counseling service provider. With DNA Longevity, Maria is revolutionizing healthcare by making personalized genetic counseling accessible to all. By combining cutting-edge technology, strategic collaborations, and user-focused education, the company leads the charge in preventative, precision health.
DNA Longevity provides expert genetic counseling to empower individuals in managing their genetic health risks. The personalized guidance and support from the team of DNA Longevity enables clients to make informed choices about their wellness, fostering proactive health management and enhanced longevity.
Bridging The Gap Between Genetics and Healthcare
We started the interview by asking Maria Antonela Axinte, “How does working as a genetic counselor directly benefit patients and society?”
Maria Antonela Axinte shared, “Genetic counseling is integral to both preventing genetic conditions through early risk assessment as well as guiding effective treatment strategies for those affected. As Genetic counselors, we provide vital services that directly benefit patients and society by integrating genetic information with clinical care. We help patients with personalized risk assessments, informed consent, and psychosocial support, facilitating informed decision-making and tailored management strategies for genetic conditions.
This personalized approach not only enhances individual patient outcomes through early intervention and preventive care but also contributes to broader public health by enabling early detection of genetic disorders, advancing research through data collection, and advocating for ethical practices and equitable access to genetic services. Through these efforts, genetic counselors play a crucial role in optimizing both individual and population health.”
Busting Common Myths About Genetic Counseling
We were curious to learn more about some myths that exist in this sector. So, we asked Maria Antonela Axinte, “What are some of the biggest misconceptions about genetic counseling that you encounter?”
Maria Antonela Axinte replied, “This is a great question and by answering I hope to debunk some of the biggest misconceptions about genetic counseling. Genetic counseling is often misunderstood as solely predicting or diagnosing genetic diseases. In reality, it’s a nuanced process that interprets complex genetic information to help individuals understand their risk, make informed decisions, and proactively manage their health.
Another common misconception is that genetic counseling is only relevant for individuals with a known family history of genetic disorders, whereas it can be beneficial for a wide range of patients, including those seeking information about inherited conditions, reproductive planning, or personal health risks. Individuals may have genetic variants that increase their risk for certain conditions even if there is no family history. For example, some genetic mutations are associated with an increased risk of cancers like breast or colon cancer, regardless of whether these cancers are present in the family.”
“Additionally, some may perceive genetic counseling as deterministic, but it primarily emphasizes risk assessment and does not dictate inevitable outcomes, aiming instead to empower individuals with knowledge and support for navigating their genetic health landscape. Last but not least, we as genetic counselors find ourselves best equipped to provide patients with support in nonclinical space leading an expanded role in preventative health and Longevity.” Maria added.
Lessons From Angelina Jolie’s BRCA Experience
We further asked, “Angelina Jolie – case – what would be the right action based on this example?”
Maria Antonela Axinte shared, “Angelina Jolie’s decision to undergo a preventive double mastectomy in 2013, following genetic testing that revealed she carried a BRCA1 gene mutation with a significantly increased risk for breast cancer, serves as a compelling case in genetic counseling.
In our practice , the appropriate action, based on her example, involves a multifaceted approach: first, genetic counseling should include a thorough risk assessment and discussion of all possible management options tailored to the individual’s genetic profile and personal values. In Jolie’s case, the recommendation would include considering the psychological impact of the risk, discussing the benefits and limitations of preventive surgery versus other options such as enhanced surveillance, and providing comprehensive support throughout the decision-making process.
In my practice, Angelina Jolie’s case highlights the importance of considering genetic information’s broader implications, including family impact and open communication. While genetic counseling fundamentals remain steadfast – risk assessment, management options, psychosocial support, and informed decision-making – our field evolves with advancements in genetic medicine, paving the way for expanded roles in precision medicine and preventative healthcare.”
Genetic Counseling And Family Dynamics
To learn more about the implications of genetic counseling, we asked Maria, “What are the implications of genetic counseling for family dynamics, particularly in terms of communication about genetic risks?”
Maria Antonela Axinte shared, “Genetic counseling has significant implications for family dynamics, particularly in terms of communication about genetic risks. When a genetic condition is identified, it can prompt important discussions within families about inherited risks and their potential impact on relatives. This process often involves revealing sensitive information that may affect family relationships and emotional well-being.
Effective genetic counseling helps facilitate these conversations by providing clear, objective information and guidance on how to discuss genetic risks with family members. It encourages open communication, ensuring that all affected individuals are informed about their risks and available options. This not only aids in personal decision-making but also fosters a supportive family environment where members can collaborate on health management and planning.
However, it can also bring to light complex family issues, such as dealing with genetic conditions that might affect multiple generations, which requires careful handling to maintain family cohesion and address any potential concerns or conflicts.”
Empowering Reproductive Choices
We asked, “How can genetic counseling support individuals facing difficult decisions regarding reproductive options?”
Maria Antonela Axinte replied, “Genetic Counselors analyze the potential genetic risks of passing on inherited disorders, discuss the implications of these risks for future children, and explore various reproductive options. We provide detailed explanations of available interventions such as preconception genetic testing, in vitro fertilization with preimplantation genetic diagnosis, and prenatal testing.
As a Genetic Counselor with a strong interest in reproductive options, I have a deep understanding of the various reproductive issues prevalent in the field. One major concern is the high consanguinity within the local population, which accounts for 50% of the cases we see. Another common issue is the increasing trend of late-age pregnancies.”
“In reproductive genetic counseling, we collaborate with IVF centers to assess the genetic factors contributing to infertility or to identify genetic disorders that could be passed to future children. A key test in this process is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), which helps detect inheritable genetic conditions before implantation. After implantation, additional screening tests such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS), or Amniocentesis are used for further diagnostic evaluation during pregnancy.
Through empathetic counseling and education, genetic counselors help individuals and couples weigh the benefits, limitations, and ethical considerations of each option, allowing them to make informed decisions that align with their values and goals. This support helps mitigate the emotional stress associated with reproductive choices and empowers individuals to make decisions that are right for their personal and family circumstances.” She added.
Promoting Genetic Counseling Awareness
Genetic counseling is crucial for informed decision-making yet remains underrecognized. To learn how DNA Longevity plays its part in spreading awareness, we asked, “How can we raise more awareness about the importance of genetic counseling and the role genetic counselors play?”
Maria Antonela Axinte responded, “Raising awareness about the importance of genetic counseling and the role of genetic counselors can be achieved through a multifaceted approach that includes public education, professional collaboration, and advocacy. Initiatives could include integrating genetic counseling education into public health campaigns, leveraging social media to disseminate information about the benefits and availability of genetic counseling, and collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure that patients are referred to genetic counselors when appropriate.
Additionally, increasing visibility through patient testimonials, success stories, and community outreach programs can help demystify genetic counseling and highlight its value. Engaging with educational institutions to include genetics in curricula and offering continuing education for healthcare professionals can also enhance understanding and recognition of genetic counseling’s critical role in personalized medicine.
By broadening the reach and visibility of genetic counseling services, we can improve public awareness and access, ultimately ensuring that more individuals benefit from the expertise and support that genetic counselors provide. That’s why I enjoy participating in an interview such as this because I value partnering with influencers, bloggers, and thought leaders in the healthcare and wellness space to share information about genetic counseling. Your reach can help spread awareness to diverse audiences who may not otherwise encounter these topics.”
Emerging Trends In Genetic Counseling
The field of genetic counseling has witnessed tremendous growth and transformation in recent years. So, we asked, “What do you think is the most exciting development in the field of genetic counseling in recent years?”
Maria Antonela Axinte replied, “One of the most exciting developments in the field of genetic counseling in recent years is the advancement of direct-to-consumer genetic testing and the integration of genomic data into routine healthcare. These innovations have democratized access to genetic information, allowing individuals to explore their genetic predispositions and make informed health decisions without necessarily going through traditional healthcare channels.
However, there is a risk that individuals may misinterpret their genetic test results without the guidance of a professional. This shift has sparked a broader dialogue about the role of genetic counseling in interpreting and contextualizing these results, ensuring that individuals receive accurate and actionable information.
Moreover, the growth of whole-genome sequencing and the development of sophisticated bioinformatics tools have enhanced the ability to identify genetic variants with clinical significance, leading to more precise and personalized risk assessments. These advancements not only improve the accuracy of genetic counseling but also expand its reach, making it more accessible to a wider population and integrating it more seamlessly into comprehensive healthcare management.”
Revolutionizing health through genomics science
Eager to learn more about the potential trends in this field, we asked, “What emerging trends in genetics do you believe will significantly impact the field of genetic counseling in the coming years?”
“Emerging trends in genomics that are poised to significantly impact the field of genetic counseling include the proliferation of polygenic risk scores (PRS), advancements in whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in genomic data analysis. Polygenic risk scores, which aggregate the effects of multiple genetic variants across the genome, offer new insights into complex, multifactorial conditions and enable more nuanced risk assessments.
Whole-genome sequencing and AI-driven analysis revolutionize genetic counseling. By examining an individual’s entire genetic landscape, genetic counselors can identify rare and novel variants with potential clinical significance. AI-enhanced variant interpretation and disease risk prediction enable personalized treatment strategies, expanding genetic counseling’s scope. This integration empowers genetic counselors to provide precise, individualized recommendations, enhancing genetic risk management and personalized healthcare planning.” Maria added.
Impact Of Genetic Counseling
We ended the interview by asking, “What role does genetic counseling play in public health initiatives of UAE, and how can businesses contribute to these efforts?”
Maria Antonela Axinte concluded, “In the UAE, we consider genetic counseling to play a pivotal role in public health initiatives by enhancing the early detection and management of genetic disorders, thus contributing to the overall improvement of population health. Genetic counselors provide crucial services, including risk assessment, education, and support for individuals undergoing genetic testing, which aligns with national health goals of reducing the burden of genetic diseases through early intervention and preventive strategies “
Find Maria Antonela Axinte on LinkedIn.
Follow DNA Longevity on LinkedIn and visit their website https://www.dna-longevity.com/.
Also Read :-
Transforming Online Presence With Many Purple Hats: Gareth Wax
