Imagine sitting in your doctor's office, only to hear that your genetics don’t significantly contribute to chronic diseases. Surprising, right? While lifestyle choices like diet and exercise certainly shape our health, recent research reveals that our genes play a pivotal role in determining disease risk!

Since the mapping of the human genome in 2003, studies have demonstrated that genetics are not to be dismissed. Research indicates that genetic factors can account for a significant portion of disease heritability across various conditions. For instance, while Type 2 diabetes has a heritability of about 17%, schizophrenia can soar up to 80%. Unlike single-gene disorders like Tay-Sachs or cystic fibrosis, chronic diseases are influenced by multiple genes, adding complexity to our understanding of health.

The Overlooked Connection: Genes and Environment