NasonCare is partnering with the Medical University of South Carolina by enrolling patients in “In Our DNA SC”, a community health research project designed to help participants understand inherited health risks and support research that advances personalized care.
Interested parties can find more information on the NasonCare website.
“In Our DNA SC” launched in 2021 through a collaboration between MUSC and Helix, a population genomics company, to expand access to proactive genetic screening across South Carolina. In an MUSC program update dated August 6, 2024, the initiative reported surpassing 50,000 participants, reflecting progress toward a long-term enrollment goal of 100,000.
The program provides confidential genetic health screening for inherited risk associated with three conditions that can significantly affect long-term health outcomes. These include hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, commonly linked to BRCA1 and BRCA2, Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary colorectal cancer, and familial hypercholesterolemia, also known as genetic high cholesterol. MUSC leaders involved in the initiative have emphasized that family history and standard screening alone do not always identify inherited risk, and that population-wide screening can help reach individuals who might not otherwise be referred for genetic testing.
Enrollment is structured to be straightforward and accessible. The program is open to adults 18 years and older who have no history of allogeneic bone marrow and or stem cell transplants, with participation offered at no cost. Participants enroll online, complete an electronic consent process, and provide a saliva sample. MUSC describes multiple ways to participate, including clinical collection sites, community events, and at-home kits.
After a sample is collected, Helix analyzes the sample and returns results to the participant. Results are delivered to the participant’s electronic medical record and may also be available through an optional Helix account. Most participants are expected to have negative findings for the targeted conditions. When results indicate increased risk based on a pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant, participants are contacted and offered a no-cost genetic counseling appointment to review the result, discuss inheritance and risk, and consider prevention-oriented planning. Any additional clinical follow-up beyond counseling is not covered by the study.
“In Our DNA SC” is also developing a secure, privacy-protected genetic and research database intended to support new research discoveries over time. MUSC describes program principles that include data security, transparency, accessibility, and participant choice, including the ability to withdraw and stop sharing information.
By partnering with MUSC to enroll patients in “In Our DNA SC”, NasonCare is helping expand awareness of a statewide effort focused on actionable health insights, broader access to genetic screening, and the long-term improvement of health outcomes for communities across South Carolina.
People can learn more about “In Our DNA SC” at https://www.musc.edu/community/in-our-dna-sc
NasonCare
+1 843 773 9903
2233 Northwoods Blvd,
North Charleston
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29406
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