Proactive Healthcare By Understanding your DNA

Did you know that our human DNA contains genetic information about potential hereditary diseases lurking in our systems? This means you can know in advance if you have a high probability of getting a disease or an ailment in the near or far future based on your DNA. 

Technological Innovations @ PlumCare DNA Advisor

This is what Plumcare DNA advisor is all about. They aim to understand your DNA so you can take charge of your family's health.

Proactive Healthcare

Disease can adversely impact one’s ability to live a full, productive and meaningful life. While no one is immune from infirmity, some families carry a stronger predilection for certain diseases - ones that are passed down the family tree.

Some of these conditions are relatively common hypertension, diabetes, cancer and we see them manifested in our forebears.

However, some may actually be lurking in our genetic makeup without any manifestation in the family. Unknown to most people at risk, these silent diseases can show up and rear their ugly heads at a time they are least expected to.

Cordlife Genscreen x Plumcare DNA

Dr. Petros Tsipouras, Co-founder and CEO of Plumcare

Sadly, for generations, there has been no way of getting this information before disease strikes until now.

Today, there is what you call 'genetic disposition' where the genetic code of a person can reveal if he/she will develop certain diseases or ailments.

Introducing PlumCare DNA Advisor now in the Philippines 

Cordlife, the first and only DOH-registered, ISO-certified and AABB-accredited cord blood banking facility in the Philippines, has been serving Filipino families for the last 8 years.

“Our commitment to the highest quality standards is our assurance to our clients. They can be confident that their children’s precious stem cells are secure for potentially life-saving use in the future," said Michael Arnonobal, CEO of Cordlife Medical Philippines. 

Celebrity Host Iya Villania

US FDA Recognizes Plumcare DNA

Cordlife Genscreen introduces PlumCare DNA Advisor, developed by Dr Petros Tsipouras, a specialist in clinical genetics and an adjunct professor at the Yale University School of Medicine, and Dr. Paul Billings, a specialist in genomic medicine.

All testing is performed at US-based facilities accredited by the College of American Pathologists (”CAP”), the global ”gold standard” for laboratory quality assurance.

”It is also this dedication to the Filipino family’s future health that is the driving force behind our bringing Genscreen, Cordlife’s genetic testing service arm, into our country." adds Arnonobal.

PlumCare DNA Advisor can help Filipino families detect potentially disease-causing genetic variants, made possible through a thorough analysis of the DNA of each family member. Designed for families of 3 or more, the test relies on cutting-edge sequencing technology and on a wealth of big data to provide meaningful and actionable insights into a family's genetic make-up. Many hereditary diseases can be prevented or managed if detected early enough.

Mr. Michael Weiss, CEO of Cordlife Group Limited

Experts from Plumcare include Paul Billings, MD, Phd (Chairman), Shamil Sunyaev, PhD (Computational Biology), Michael Krauthammer, MD, PhD (Clinical Informatics), and the aforementioned Dr. Petros Tsipouras, Co-founder and CEO of Plumcare.

'I never dreamed that in my lifertime my own genome would be sequenced' - James D. Watson 

Moreover, Plumcare DNA advisors can map out at least 20,000 genes where 85% of diseases-causing DNA variations are found! Among the common ailments they can detect in advance include the following;

• Hearing Loss
• Metabolic Discorders
• Seuzures
• Connective Tissue Conditions
• Anesthesia Complications
• Heart Diseases
• Cancers

Testing Now, Peace Of Mind For The Future 

Advances in the field of genetics are accelerating at an unprecedented rate, and so is the level of public awareness. In fact, more than 80% of Filipino parents surveyed welcome the idea of genetic screening.

Through PlumCare DNA Advisor, families can now be armed with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about health and lifestyle choices as a family. This knowledge can help in the prevention, monitoring and treatment of potential conditions. 

Plumcare DNA Advisor

How is DNA Sequencing Done? 

PlumCareTM DNA Advisor uses Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), which effectively maps out the exact composition or sequence of approximately 20,000 genes where nearly 85% of disease-causing DNA variations are found.

This is done by collecting DNA from adults and children above the age of 6 years old using a saliva tube which is included in the collection kit. Collection from children younger than 6 years old will be done using a swab sponge.

The test specimens are then sent to the high-quality and reliable genetic testing laboratory in the US, where PlumCare is based, with results available within 60 days after receipt of sample by the US Lab. Genetic counsellors are then available to give advice to help you make the necessary lifestyle adjustment or preventive care.

What FDA Says About It

As per the US FDA, 'consumers can now have direct access to certain genetic risk information,' says Jeffrey Shuren, M.D., director of the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health.

Plumcare DNA Advisor Press Conference

Mr. Mike Arononobal, Cordlife Philippines CEO

How to Create Value form DNA Information

Plumcare DNA Advisor can help its patients from as early as the newborn stages with its newborn screening and analysis of DNA variants. A genetic counselor can also recommend extended family testing, and carrier screening for genetic condition.

Insightful results from exome sequencing can reveal genetic dispositions and advise monitoring or provide treatment insights.

Other insights include genomic for health and wellness while services include Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), sequence once, tracking phenotypic data (with recurring updates), and multi-generational - Family Trio Test and adding siblings / grandparents.

'Knowing your genetic code is not something that should frighten you... embrace the fact,... that you can do something about it,' shares Dr. Petros Tsipouras, Co-founder and CEO of Plumcare

Press Launch  of Genscreen Plumcare DNA Advisor

In the Plumcare DNA Advisor press launch earlier today, celebrity singer and brand ambassador Mr. Chito Miranda shared his positive experiences with Genscreen and Plumcare DNA.

Celebrity Singer & Musician Chito Miranda, Cordlife Brand AMbassador

Cordlife x Plumcare DNA now in the Philippines!

Cordlife Philippines CEO Mr. Mike Arnonobal was also at the gathering. The press launch was hosted by mom and celebrity host Iya Villa

As per consumer adoption, today, over 12 million samples have already been genotyped or sequenced to date worldwide. We believe that this offering will be revolutionary in the country as parents become proactive, healthwise, and more open with such procedures.