To a lot of people, genetic testing still sounds like futuristic fiction. And that means people come to us with different misconceptions of what genetic testing is all about.

To help address some of those perceptions, we’ll start blogging from time to time about common myths that surround genetic testing and try to set the record straight.

Here’s one misconception our genetic counselors often hear:

Myth:  My DNA is my destiny, and I don’t want to know.

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At a time when most personal genetic testing companies do not even offer genetic counseling to their clients, Navigenics, I’m thrilled to report, is expanding our counseling program.

Genetic counseling from a qualified professional is a critical part of the genetic testing experience. Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals who are trained to help you understand what genetic information means for you and your family – and whether testing is appropriate for you. We work with you to put your results into context and discuss ways to integrate the information into your life. 

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What do scientists and rock stars have in common? On the surface, not a heck of a lot.

But on May 25, they’ll all be gracing the pages of GQ Magazine as part of a nationwide effort to recognize the achievements of some of today’s top scientific minds.

Among those featured in the “Rock Stars of Science” public service campaign is Dr. David Agus, who co-founded Navigenics with the overall goal of improving personal health. Dr. Agus is also a nationally recognized cancer researcher and physician with the University of Southern California.

Haven’t heard of him? That’s exactly the point of the Rock Stars of Science project.

Nearly three-fourths of Americans polled could not name a single living scientist in a 2006 survey commissioned by Research!America. A separate survey for Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry determined that Britney Spears is more influential than Stephen Hawking among most Americans.

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Heather Bonaguidi is making an effort to include more anti-oxidants and whole grains in her diet.

Rashaad Forehand is drinking less alcohol and cutting down on his ice cream intake.

These are the sorts of healthier choices we’re all told to make, and that many of us ignore. But Heather and Rashaad have extra motivation – they’ve learned about some of the personal health risks carried in their DNA.

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After little more than a week at Navigenics, I have had the chance to touch the power of genomic science.

For thousands of years, people have searched for ways to see their future, turning to shamans, palm readers, tarot cards and horoscopes. And the answers that they got were useful if they believed in how they got them, but to a “scientific” observer they were answers without proof.

In the past 20 years, genomic science has unlocked many of the “secrets” about us, and in the past few years, that science has allowed us to translate discoveries into practical guidance.

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Alzheimer’s disease, long a condition deeply feared because it seems so hopeless, is getting a new look from a brighter angle.

This week, HBO is airing a new documentary series, “The Alzheimer’s Project,” that includes two segments on promising new research. As the online introduction to the series says, “There is no cure – but there is hope.”

The Alzheimer’s Association, a partner in the HBO project, is leading a new push for advocacy, awareness, and a search for treatments.

And at Navigenics, we are helping our members learn about their genetic Alzheimer’s risks, so that they can be aware, informed, and involved on a personal level earlier.

Recently, ABC’s “Nightline” co-anchor Terry Moran became his own news story as he turned the cameras onto himself and got a Navigenics genetic test to learn whether he had a genetic predisposition for Alzheimer’s disease. He shared his concerns, his family history, his results, and his reactions with the millions of Americans who tuned in.

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