23andMe Holding Co. (NASDAQ: ME), a leading human genetics company with a mission to help people access, understand, and benefit from the human genome, today released a new polygenic risk score (PRS) report* on the genetics of osteoporosis for 23andMe+ Premium members.
The report informs customers if they are at a higher likelihood of developing osteoporosis based on a statistical model developed by 23andMe through its proprietary research database, along with actionable lifestyle factors that can reduce their risk.
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone density becomes too low, which makes bones more fragile and prone to breaks (fractures). It’s estimated that 12.3 million Americans have osteoporosis, and an additional 40+ million have osteopenia (a less severe form of low bone density).
Osteoporosis becomes more common with age, and women are more likely to develop the condition than men. Other risk factors include having a family history of the condition, having a small body frame, taking certain medications (such as corticosteroids), and having certain other health conditions. Often called a “silent” disease, osteoporosis usually has no symptoms until people break a bone — most commonly in the spine, hip, or wrist and often as a result of minor falls or normal activities.
ME shares lost six cents, or 1.8%, to $3.35.
