NUTRIGENETIC TESTS FOR LIFE-STYLE OPTIMIZATION IN THE BULGARIAN POPULATION - DIFFICULTIES, ADVANCES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Introduction:  Nutrigenetics is a relatively new, but intensively developing scientific field. It aims to improve the quality of life by customizing dietary intake, physical activity and environmental exposures according to the personal genetic variantions. Aim:  The aim of the study is to examine the attitude of the Bulgarian society towards nutrigenetic tests and how knowledge of personal genetic data influences current lifestyle choices. Materials and Methods:  Seventy-eight Bulgarian probands were tested for the 56 single nucleotide polimorphisms (SNPs) in 52 genes, related to the lipid, carbohydrate, vitamin B and D metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, osteoporosis detoxification, PUFA, caffeine and salt responsiveness, predisposition to tendon injuries, as well as genes associated with power and endurance in athletes (DNA Life, Nordic Laboratories). Each proband provided a written informed consent before testing, as well as filled in questionnaires as part of pre-test counseling and then a few months later. Each patient was consulted by a trained genetic counselor. Probands were provided with detailed information about the test, detected polymorphic variants and personalized recommendations for diet, sport and lifestyle changes. Results:  The preliminarily results reveal that large portion of the respondents could directly follow the received personal recommendations. In a small number of the patients a chronic disease during the counseling was detected and they were directed to the gastroenterologist for treatment. A significant share of our cohort, found to be predisposed to obesity, insulin resistance and osteoporosis, has already manifested some symptoms and the individuals were referred to a dietitian and endocrinologist, respectively. Patient follow-up, as well as data collection from the questionnaires are ongoing. Conclusion:  This study shows that Bulgarians are inclined to do nutrigenetic tests for prevention of socially significant disorders and stresses the need for a trained physician to analyze test results and offer the most suitable lifestyle modifications in order to minimize morbidity risk.