Healthspan consent
Healthspan Labs Inc. (“Healthspan”, “we”, “us”, “our”) is a service that has been designed for proactive screening of specific biometrics for informational purposes.This consent form provides information to help you make an informed decision about using Healthspan services. We last updated this consent form on January 31, 2024. Please read it carefully. You may choose to purchase specific Healthspan services listed in this consent form. By purchasing a specific testing service (i.e., either by purchasing add-ons with a Longevity Membership or through a Longevity+ Membership), you understand that you are consenting to the specific terms outlined in the corresponding section of this consent form. For any in-person services (e.g., blood draw), if you have an infectious illness or think you might have one, please take reasonable steps to prevent this from spreading. For example, if you have symptoms such as fever or chills, coughing, or diarrhea, please contact Healthspan to reschedule your in-person appointment.
Possible Benefits and Risks
Possible benefits of participation in Healthspan services may include better knowledge that can inform your decisions that can affect your overall wellness, such as positive behaviour changes. Healthspan services may alert you to opportunities to share test results with your primary care provider and discuss prevention of potential health conditions that you were not aware of before your participation in Healthspan services.
You may experience stress or emotional or physical discomfort when you learn about potential health conditions. You should follow up with your primary care provider after reviewing the results of any of your Healthspan tests. Healthspan makes no representations regarding the accuracy of Healthspan services, including the results of any medical or genetic tests. You may have a disease or condition even though the results of your tests are in the normal range; or you may not have a disease or condition even though the results of your test are outside of the normal range. There may be other risks to participation in medical tests that no one can foresee. You must use at your own risk all information provided by Healthspan to you.
The purpose of genetic analysis is to reveal your genetic potential for certain traits, including those for cancer risk, cardiac conditions, and neurodegenerative risk. The Healthspan genetic service (including cancer risk screening, cardiac conditions screening) provides information on genes that increase the risk of developing disease.
No Medical Services
Healthspan services are here to provide general information, not to give you medical advice or treatment. Everything we share is for general knowledge. We don't provide medical care or recommend specific products or healthcare options. If you think you have a health issue, it's best to talk to your regular doctor/primary care provider. Always double-check your Healthspan results with other sources and consult your doctor for advice. If you have a serious medical problem, don't use our site or services – call your doctor or 911. We try our best to be accurate, but if you find a mistake, let us know. Remember, information from Healthspan is not a replacement for advice from your personal healthcare provider who knows your situation.Please read Healthspan’s Terms and Conditions for further information.
Blood Draw
The Healthspan blood panel involves a mobile blood draw offered by Healthspan’s partner, Dynacare, to test for over 50 biometrics. More information about the tests ordered is available from Healthspan upon request.
How is the blood draw performed? A phlebotomist will come to your home to perform the blood draw. You’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and fast for 12 hours prior to collection (you can and should have water, but no food, coffee, tea, etc. until after you provide your blood sample). If you take a vitamin A supplement, don’t take it for 24 hours before you provide your sample.
What are the risks of a blood draw? Although the risks and discomforts associated with a blood test are very low, you might be at risk for excessive bleeding, fainting, or feeling light-headed, hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin) or infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken). While the possibility of this happening is very small, you should still be aware of the possibility. If you feel discomfort or other symptoms, tell the person drawing your blood right away. If at any time during the blood draw or 24 hours after you feel unwell or ill, you should seek medical help right away.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard. Healthspan will also notify you (by email or phone) of any abnormal test results for you to share with your primary care provider.
Longevity Coaching
A Healthspan Longevity Coach is a mentor and guide who can support you to reach your health goals by helping you to devise and implement positive, sustainable lifestyle changes.
What might you learn from Longevity Coaching? A Longevity Coach serves as a mentor and guide, offering support in helping you achieve your health goals by assisting you in devising and implementing positive, sustainable lifestyle changes. Longevity Coaches leverage their knowledge and training in scientifically-supported exercise, basic nutrition, and lifestyle change techniques to provide coaching services. These services are tailored to support you in making lifestyle changes that have the potential to enhance your Healthspan metrics and longevity.
What are the risks and limitations of Longevity Coaching? The Longevity Coach is not acting in the capacity of a doctor, dietitian, psychologist, or any other licensed or registered professional; any advice provided by the Longevity Coach is not intended to replace advice from these professionals. Longevity Coaches are not licensed or regulated health professionals, and as such, they are not authorised to assess, diagnose, or offer healthcare recommendations or interventions for the treatment of diseases, acute conditions, or any other physical or mental ailments of the human body that require immediate medical attention. If you are currently under the care of a licensed or registered healthcare professional or are using prescription medications, it is essential to consult your doctor before making any dietary changes or considering dietary supplements use. Do not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. If you have any further questions about the scope of practice of your Longevity Coach, please feel free to discuss them with them directly.
Should you choose to follow any advice related to lifestyle changes, please be aware that these are general guidelines, and you assume any associated risks at your own discretion. It is your responsibility to verify that these recommendations do not override any advice provided by regulated medical professionals. If you have any doubts or questions regarding the advice given by your Longevity Coach, you should seek guidance from a primary care provider. You acknowledge that you are fully responsible for your own life and well-being, including all decisions made during and after participating in Longevity Coaching services.
You explicitly assume all risks associated with Longevity Coaching services, including the inherent risks of trying new foods, supplements, or exercises, as well as the risks inherent in making lifestyle changes. You release the Longevity Coach and Healthspan Labs Inc. from any and all liability, damages, causes of action, allegations, suits, sums of money, claims, and demands, whether in law or equity, that you have had, now have, or may have in the future concerning the Longevity Coach's services, except in cases of gross negligence on the part of the Longevity Coach.
Proactive DNA Screening
Proactive DNA screening for cancer risk and cardiac conditions involves ordering one or more genetic screens or tests offered by Healthspan’s partner, Invitae Corporation (“Invitae”). More information about the screen(s) or test(s) ordered is available from Healthspan and can also be found on the Invitae website (www.invitae.com).
How is screening performed? Screening is performed on a small sample of your blood, saliva, or isolated DNA. Once collected, the sample will be sent to Invitae to perform the screen. During processing, Invitae will look for changes in the DNA sequence, known as “variants.”
What might you learn from this screening? The results of this DNA screen could be:
Positive, and may: alert you to a predisposition or an increased risk for developing a genetic disease in the future; have implications for risk of disease in other family members.
Carrier, and may:indicate that you carry a genetic change that does not increase your own risk of developing a specific medical condition, but that may be passed within your family (also known as carrier status).
Negative, and may: indicate disease risks close to that of the general population but not eliminate the risk for developing a genetic disease in the future.
What are the risks and limitations of this screen? This screen may or may not help your healthcare provider better understand your health and management options. Some types of DNA variants that could cause a specific genetic disorder may not be detected by this screen. When available, testing an affected family member may be more informative. As with all molecular genetic tests, Invitae’s test has technical limitations that may prevent detection of some rare gene variants, or may give an inaccurate result, due to: poor DNA quality, rare technical errors in the laboratory, incorrect reporting of family relationships or clinical diagnosis information, or other types of limitations. In some circumstances, additional testing or testing of other family members may be appropriate and provide additional information. Invitae generates a report for the genes that you have ordered and will not report variants of uncertain significance. In the course of performing the ordered tests, Invitae may rarely find variants that are unrelated to any concern that prompted your having the test but are associated with a significant risk for another condition that could negatively impact your health. These are known as “incidental findings.”
In accordance with well established medical guidelines, Invitae will consult with Healthspan and/or your healthcare provider when there are accepted medical interventions available and Healthspan and/or your healthcare provider can discuss these with you. There is a possibility that, if multiple family members are tested, this test may find that your family relationships are not what you believe them to be. Invitae will only report these findings if necessary to provide correct test results. It is your responsibility to consider the possible impact of your test results as they relate to insurance rates, obtaining disability or life insurance and employment.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard. Clinical reports are confidential and will only be shared in accordance with applicable laws. Your clinical report is also available for you to download from the Invitae patient portal (www.invitae.com/patients/signin).
Who can you speak to about your screening and results?Our lab partner, Invitae, offers genetic counselling services to explain the implications of the results. Healthspan and Invitae recommend that you consult with a genetic counsellor or your healthcare provider before consenting to this screen. Healthspan and Invitae also recommend that you speak to a genetic counsellor or your healthcare provider about your results.
Will your results ever change? Knowledge of genetic information will improve over time, so new information may become available in the future that could impact the interpretation of your results. Invitae may notify you of clinical updates related to your genetic screen, in consultation with Healthspan or your healthcare provider. You may request additional notifications and resources relevant to your genetic screen by creating an Invitae patient portal account at www.invitae.com/patients/signin.This section describes how Invitae uses and protects your data and the choices available to you to determine how it is used. Two of Invitae’s founding principles are 1) patients own and control their own genetic information and 2) genetic information is more valuable when shared.
What types of data does Invitae use? As a genetic testing laboratory, Invitae receives your sample (e.g. blood, saliva) along with your relevant health information. Invitae then analyses the genetic information contained within the sample and delivers a genetic test report to Healthspan. Your sample and the health and genetic information Invitae receives and generates about you (collectively, “your data”) is considered as sensitive personal data by regulators. Your data is subject to strict legal requirements regarding how it can and cannot be used and how it must be protected.
How does Invitae protect your data? Invitae takes robust measures to help keep your data safe and secure and limit use of your data only for permitted purposes. Invitae uses technical, administrative and physical safeguards to secure your data and protect it against misuse, loss, or alteration. Invitae also takes steps to de-identify or anonymize your data in accordance with applicable laws. De-identified data (also called pseudonymized data) is data that has been stripped of identifying information (such as your name or email address), although the data may contain a key that Invitae can use to link back to the individual where required. Anonymized data is similar to de-identified data except that there is no ability to link the data back to an individual.
How may your data be used or shared? The following activities are a core part of Invitae’s genetic testing services such that when you consent to a genetic test, you are consenting to and understand you cannot opt out of these activities:
- Providing genetic testing services, including preparing and delivering a genetic test report to Healthspan and/or your healthcare providers.
- Performing operational activities in support of genetic testing services, such as billing for services Invitae provides. Invitae may contact you via text or email (per your contact preference) as part of delivering the genetic testing services.
- Internal uses for validation, quality improvement, refining and updating Invitae’s classification of genetic variants, and product development related to genetic testing.
- Sharing of anonymized variant information with ClinVar, a federal program that enables research on genes and health.
- Sharing of data that is summarized at a group or aggregate level rather than data that is specific to a single individual.
- Sharing of the contact information of Healthspan and your healthcare provider with third parties if your healthcare provider has provided consent.
You are also consenting to the research and commercial activities as set forth below, and you understand you can opt out of any of the following activities by setting your preferences in the Invitae patient portal or by emailing clientservices@invitae.com:
- Performing internal research activities. These are activities where Invitae uses patient samples or data to generate new knowledge.
- Sharing de-identified data and samples with third parties for research or commercial activities. Third parties may include academic researchers, commercial entities, and other genetic testing laboratories. Recipients of the de-identified data and samples are prohibited from attempting to reidentify me. Recipients may link de-identified data from Invitae with other data sources to create a combined data set as long as the data remains de-identified. Invitae will NOT share your identifiable data or sample without your additional, explicit consent. If you opt out of data sharing after your data has already been shared, you understand your data cannot be “un-shared”. If you choose to participate in a sponsored testing program or other data sharing program offered by Invitae to help individuals access genetic testing, you are consenting to de-identified data sharing through the program. You understand that (1) you cannot opt out of data sharing through the program (except where required by law) and (2) your general data sharing preference will not apply to data sharing through the program.
- Contacting you about research opportunities, opportunities to connect with others, product feedback, and new products and services.
What happens to your data if you are outside the United States? Invitae is located in the United States and Invitae will process your data and sample in the United States.
How long may your data or sample be retained? Invitae may retain your data and sample for as long as reasonably necessary for the purposes described above.
How can you find more information about how your data is used and shared? Invitae provides more information about its data use practices on its privacy homepage at www.invitae.com/privacy. On that page, Invitae provides a link to its Privacy Policy, HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices, and other privacy resources.By agreeing to this form, you confirm that: (1) you have read (or had read to you) and you understand the information provided in this consent; (2) you understand that genetic testing is voluntary, and you may choose not to have your sample tested; (3) you have received a copy of this consent form; (4) all your questions have been satisfactorily answered; and (5) you hereby consent to genetic testing and to the retention, use, and sharing of your data and sample as described in this form.
VO2 Max Testing
A VO2 max test is a maximal exercise test with an exercise physiology professional offered by a Healthspan partner (depending on your location). VO2 max is a term used in exercise physiology that means the maximum rate (V) of oxygen (O2) that someone can utilize during intense or maximal exercise. Improvements of one’s VO2 max measurement have shown strong correlations with reduction in all-cause mortality, reduction in coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and cancer.
How is VO2 max testing performed? The test will include measuring your weight, height, heart rate, and VO2 max. It may also include measuring your blood pressure. During the VO2 max test, you will exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while connected to a machine that can analyse your exhaled breath. If the exercise professional determines that you are not safe for VO2 max testing (e.g., due to high blood pressure), they will let you know and you will not be able to complete that portion of the physical assessment. They may provide you with a letter that you can bring to a medical doctor or nurse practitioner for medical clearance to participate in VO2 max testing. In this case, you may rebook the VO2 max test at a later time without charge. There are several instructions you’ll need to follow before your test (e.g., avoiding strenuous exercise right before the test) and these instructions will be communicated to you in advance by the exercise professional.
What might you learn from VO2 max testing? You’ll learn your VO2 max score, which is scientifically linked to be one of the best indicators of healthspan and longevity: the higher your VO2 max, the more likely that you live longer and do the activities of life with more ease.
What are the risks and limitations of VO2 max testing? Physical activities involved in this appointment may be strenuous and uncomfortable, and may involve you doing movements and activities that you are not familiar with. Like any physical exercise, VO2 max testing could lead to an adverse medical event, such as a cardiac emergency or musculoskeletal injury. You understand that you are responsible for monitoring your own condition during physical activity and letting the exercise professional know right away if you feel unwell. Should you choose to engage in physical activity, you should stop immediately if you feel unable to continue safely or do not want to continue for any reason. If you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or other unusual symptoms during physical activity, you should stop and let the exercise professional know, as well as seek out immediate medical attention.In the event of a medical emergency during the physical health assessment, you authorise the exercise professional’s clinic and its associated staff to take all reasonable responsive actions, including contacting your emergency contact and emergency services to provide care.
Cancellation Please give the exercise professional at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Because the time you booked has been set aside and dedicated to you, it is challenging to fill the time on short notice. The exercise professional’s clinic cannot guarantee that they will be able to promptly reschedule a late cancellation or missed visit.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard.
ApoE Testing
Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a protein involved in the transport and metabolism of lipids (fats) in the body. It plays a crucial role in regulating the levels of cholesterol and other lipids in the bloodstream. The ApoE gene has several common genetic variants, with APO E ε2, APO E ε3, and APO E ε4 being the most well-known. Each of these variants can impact an individual's risk of certain health conditions, primarily in relation to cardiovascular health and Alzheimer's disease.
How is ApoE testing performed? Once purchased, an ApoE test kit will be shipped directly to your home and arrive within 7-14 days. Do not eat or drink anything 30 minutes prior to providing your saliva sample. When you're ready, provide your sample, package it in the prepaid return envelope, and drop it off in any Canada Post mailbox or location.
What might you learn from ApoE testing? Your results will indicate your risks for developing neurodegenerative disease and cardiovascular disease specifically related to the ApoE genotype.
What are the limitations and risks of ApoE testing? ApoE tests are strictly informational. Like with other Healthspan tests, learning about your risk may be uncomfortable or distressing.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard.
DNA Methylation Testing
Chronic illnesses and the signs of aging, which are the foundational changes behind all diseases, aren't typically the result of a single gene. Instead, they're influenced by modifications in the patterns of expression of your genes, commonly referred to as epigenetics. This test is used to predict biological age based on the observation that specific patterns of DNA methylation change in a predictable manner as an individual ages. Methylation patterns can change with behaviours (changes in blood metrics, sleep, diet etc.)
How is DNA methylation testing performed? Once purchased, a DNAm kit will be shipped directly to your home and arrive within 7-14 days. Do not eat or drink anything 30 minutes prior to providing your saliva sample. When you're ready, provide your sample, package it in the prepaid return mailer, and drop it off in any Canada Post mailbox or location. When your DNA is sent to our partner lab for testing, we de-identify from any personal information and track it with a unique barcode that only Healthspan knows is linked to you.
What might you learn from DNA methylation testing? You’ll learn your Biological Age, which is an estimate of the amount of methylation in your DNA at the time you took the test. The test allows you to track the effects of some longevity interventions in real time. The amount of methylation is changeable over time with interventions and can be represented by the Biological Age score increasing or decreasing.
What are the limitations of DNA methylation testing? DNA methylation tests are strictly informational. Like with other Healthspan tests, learning about your risk may be uncomfortable or distressing. Additionally, DNA methylation testing is still a developing field and more studies are needed to draw a conclusive link between biological age and chronic diseases.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard.
Possible Benefits and Risks
Possible benefits of participation in Healthspan services may include better knowledge that can inform your decisions that can affect your overall wellness, such as positive behaviour changes. Healthspan services may alert you to opportunities to share test results with your primary care provider and discuss prevention of potential health conditions that you were not aware of before your participation in Healthspan services.
You may experience stress or emotional or physical discomfort when you learn about potential health conditions. You should follow up with your primary care provider after reviewing the results of any of your Healthspan tests. Healthspan makes no representations regarding the accuracy of Healthspan services, including the results of any medical or genetic tests. You may have a disease or condition even though the results of your tests are in the normal range; or you may not have a disease or condition even though the results of your test are outside of the normal range. There may be other risks to participation in medical tests that no one can foresee. You must use at your own risk all information provided by Healthspan to you.
The purpose of genetic analysis is to reveal your genetic potential for certain traits, including those for cancer risk, cardiac conditions, and neurodegenerative risk. The Healthspan genetic service (including cancer risk screening, cardiac conditions screening) provides information on genes that increase the risk of developing disease.
No Medical Services
Healthspan services are here to provide general information, not to give you medical advice or treatment. Everything we share is for general knowledge. We don't provide medical care or recommend specific products or healthcare options. If you think you have a health issue, it's best to talk to your regular doctor/primary care provider. Always double-check your Healthspan results with other sources and consult your doctor for advice. If you have a serious medical problem, don't use our site or services – call your doctor or 911. We try our best to be accurate, but if you find a mistake, let us know. Remember, information from Healthspan is not a replacement for advice from your personal healthcare provider who knows your situation.Please read Healthspan’s Terms and Conditions for further information.
Blood Draw
The Healthspan blood panel involves a mobile blood draw offered by Healthspan’s partner, Dynacare, to test for over 50 biometrics. More information about the tests ordered is available from Healthspan upon request.
How is the blood draw performed? A phlebotomist will come to your home to perform the blood draw. You’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and fast for 12 hours prior to collection (you can and should have water, but no food, coffee, tea, etc. until after you provide your blood sample). If you take a vitamin A supplement, don’t take it for 24 hours before you provide your sample.
What are the risks of a blood draw? Although the risks and discomforts associated with a blood test are very low, you might be at risk for excessive bleeding, fainting, or feeling light-headed, hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin) or infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken). While the possibility of this happening is very small, you should still be aware of the possibility. If you feel discomfort or other symptoms, tell the person drawing your blood right away. If at any time during the blood draw or 24 hours after you feel unwell or ill, you should seek medical help right away.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard. Healthspan will also notify you (by email or phone) of any abnormal test results for you to share with your primary care provider.
Longevity Coaching
A Healthspan Longevity Coach is a mentor and guide who can support you to reach your health goals by helping you to devise and implement positive, sustainable lifestyle changes.
What might you learn from Longevity Coaching? A Longevity Coach serves as a mentor and guide, offering support in helping you achieve your health goals by assisting you in devising and implementing positive, sustainable lifestyle changes. Longevity Coaches leverage their knowledge and training in scientifically-supported exercise, basic nutrition, and lifestyle change techniques to provide coaching services. These services are tailored to support you in making lifestyle changes that have the potential to enhance your Healthspan metrics and longevity.
What are the risks and limitations of Longevity Coaching? The Longevity Coach is not acting in the capacity of a doctor, dietitian, psychologist, or any other licensed or registered professional; any advice provided by the Longevity Coach is not intended to replace advice from these professionals. Longevity Coaches are not licensed or regulated health professionals, and as such, they are not authorised to assess, diagnose, or offer healthcare recommendations or interventions for the treatment of diseases, acute conditions, or any other physical or mental ailments of the human body that require immediate medical attention. If you are currently under the care of a licensed or registered healthcare professional or are using prescription medications, it is essential to consult your doctor before making any dietary changes or considering dietary supplements use. Do not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. If you have any further questions about the scope of practice of your Longevity Coach, please feel free to discuss them with them directly.
Should you choose to follow any advice related to lifestyle changes, please be aware that these are general guidelines, and you assume any associated risks at your own discretion. It is your responsibility to verify that these recommendations do not override any advice provided by regulated medical professionals. If you have any doubts or questions regarding the advice given by your Longevity Coach, you should seek guidance from a primary care provider. You acknowledge that you are fully responsible for your own life and well-being, including all decisions made during and after participating in Longevity Coaching services.
You explicitly assume all risks associated with Longevity Coaching services, including the inherent risks of trying new foods, supplements, or exercises, as well as the risks inherent in making lifestyle changes. You release the Longevity Coach and Healthspan Labs Inc. from any and all liability, damages, causes of action, allegations, suits, sums of money, claims, and demands, whether in law or equity, that you have had, now have, or may have in the future concerning the Longevity Coach's services, except in cases of gross negligence on the part of the Longevity Coach.
Proactive DNA Screening
Proactive DNA screening for cancer risk and cardiac conditions involves ordering one or more genetic screens or tests offered by Healthspan’s partner, Invitae Corporation (“Invitae”). More information about the screen(s) or test(s) ordered is available from Healthspan and can also be found on the Invitae website (www.invitae.com).
How is screening performed? Screening is performed on a small sample of your blood, saliva, or isolated DNA. Once collected, the sample will be sent to Invitae to perform the screen. During processing, Invitae will look for changes in the DNA sequence, known as “variants.”
What might you learn from this screening? The results of this DNA screen could be:
Positive, and may: alert you to a predisposition or an increased risk for developing a genetic disease in the future; have implications for risk of disease in other family members.
Carrier, and may:indicate that you carry a genetic change that does not increase your own risk of developing a specific medical condition, but that may be passed within your family (also known as carrier status).
Negative, and may: indicate disease risks close to that of the general population but not eliminate the risk for developing a genetic disease in the future.
What are the risks and limitations of this screen? This screen may or may not help your healthcare provider better understand your health and management options. Some types of DNA variants that could cause a specific genetic disorder may not be detected by this screen. When available, testing an affected family member may be more informative. As with all molecular genetic tests, Invitae’s test has technical limitations that may prevent detection of some rare gene variants, or may give an inaccurate result, due to: poor DNA quality, rare technical errors in the laboratory, incorrect reporting of family relationships or clinical diagnosis information, or other types of limitations. In some circumstances, additional testing or testing of other family members may be appropriate and provide additional information. Invitae generates a report for the genes that you have ordered and will not report variants of uncertain significance. In the course of performing the ordered tests, Invitae may rarely find variants that are unrelated to any concern that prompted your having the test but are associated with a significant risk for another condition that could negatively impact your health. These are known as “incidental findings.”
In accordance with well established medical guidelines, Invitae will consult with Healthspan and/or your healthcare provider when there are accepted medical interventions available and Healthspan and/or your healthcare provider can discuss these with you. There is a possibility that, if multiple family members are tested, this test may find that your family relationships are not what you believe them to be. Invitae will only report these findings if necessary to provide correct test results. It is your responsibility to consider the possible impact of your test results as they relate to insurance rates, obtaining disability or life insurance and employment.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard. Clinical reports are confidential and will only be shared in accordance with applicable laws. Your clinical report is also available for you to download from the Invitae patient portal (www.invitae.com/patients/signin).
Who can you speak to about your screening and results?Our lab partner, Invitae, offers genetic counselling services to explain the implications of the results. Healthspan and Invitae recommend that you consult with a genetic counsellor or your healthcare provider before consenting to this screen. Healthspan and Invitae also recommend that you speak to a genetic counsellor or your healthcare provider about your results.
Will your results ever change? Knowledge of genetic information will improve over time, so new information may become available in the future that could impact the interpretation of your results. Invitae may notify you of clinical updates related to your genetic screen, in consultation with Healthspan or your healthcare provider. You may request additional notifications and resources relevant to your genetic screen by creating an Invitae patient portal account at www.invitae.com/patients/signin.This section describes how Invitae uses and protects your data and the choices available to you to determine how it is used. Two of Invitae’s founding principles are 1) patients own and control their own genetic information and 2) genetic information is more valuable when shared.
What types of data does Invitae use? As a genetic testing laboratory, Invitae receives your sample (e.g. blood, saliva) along with your relevant health information. Invitae then analyses the genetic information contained within the sample and delivers a genetic test report to Healthspan. Your sample and the health and genetic information Invitae receives and generates about you (collectively, “your data”) is considered as sensitive personal data by regulators. Your data is subject to strict legal requirements regarding how it can and cannot be used and how it must be protected.
How does Invitae protect your data? Invitae takes robust measures to help keep your data safe and secure and limit use of your data only for permitted purposes. Invitae uses technical, administrative and physical safeguards to secure your data and protect it against misuse, loss, or alteration. Invitae also takes steps to de-identify or anonymize your data in accordance with applicable laws. De-identified data (also called pseudonymized data) is data that has been stripped of identifying information (such as your name or email address), although the data may contain a key that Invitae can use to link back to the individual where required. Anonymized data is similar to de-identified data except that there is no ability to link the data back to an individual.
How may your data be used or shared? The following activities are a core part of Invitae’s genetic testing services such that when you consent to a genetic test, you are consenting to and understand you cannot opt out of these activities:
- Providing genetic testing services, including preparing and delivering a genetic test report to Healthspan and/or your healthcare providers.
- Performing operational activities in support of genetic testing services, such as billing for services Invitae provides. Invitae may contact you via text or email (per your contact preference) as part of delivering the genetic testing services.
- Internal uses for validation, quality improvement, refining and updating Invitae’s classification of genetic variants, and product development related to genetic testing.
- Sharing of anonymized variant information with ClinVar, a federal program that enables research on genes and health.
- Sharing of data that is summarized at a group or aggregate level rather than data that is specific to a single individual.
- Sharing of the contact information of Healthspan and your healthcare provider with third parties if your healthcare provider has provided consent.
You are also consenting to the research and commercial activities as set forth below, and you understand you can opt out of any of the following activities by setting your preferences in the Invitae patient portal or by emailing clientservices@invitae.com:
- Performing internal research activities. These are activities where Invitae uses patient samples or data to generate new knowledge.
- Sharing de-identified data and samples with third parties for research or commercial activities. Third parties may include academic researchers, commercial entities, and other genetic testing laboratories. Recipients of the de-identified data and samples are prohibited from attempting to reidentify me. Recipients may link de-identified data from Invitae with other data sources to create a combined data set as long as the data remains de-identified. Invitae will NOT share your identifiable data or sample without your additional, explicit consent. If you opt out of data sharing after your data has already been shared, you understand your data cannot be “un-shared”. If you choose to participate in a sponsored testing program or other data sharing program offered by Invitae to help individuals access genetic testing, you are consenting to de-identified data sharing through the program. You understand that (1) you cannot opt out of data sharing through the program (except where required by law) and (2) your general data sharing preference will not apply to data sharing through the program.
- Contacting you about research opportunities, opportunities to connect with others, product feedback, and new products and services.
What happens to your data if you are outside the United States? Invitae is located in the United States and Invitae will process your data and sample in the United States.
How long may your data or sample be retained? Invitae may retain your data and sample for as long as reasonably necessary for the purposes described above.
How can you find more information about how your data is used and shared? Invitae provides more information about its data use practices on its privacy homepage at www.invitae.com/privacy. On that page, Invitae provides a link to its Privacy Policy, HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices, and other privacy resources.By agreeing to this form, you confirm that: (1) you have read (or had read to you) and you understand the information provided in this consent; (2) you understand that genetic testing is voluntary, and you may choose not to have your sample tested; (3) you have received a copy of this consent form; (4) all your questions have been satisfactorily answered; and (5) you hereby consent to genetic testing and to the retention, use, and sharing of your data and sample as described in this form.
VO2 Max Testing
A VO2 max test is a maximal exercise test with an exercise physiology professional offered by a Healthspan partner (depending on your location). VO2 max is a term used in exercise physiology that means the maximum rate (V) of oxygen (O2) that someone can utilize during intense or maximal exercise. Improvements of one’s VO2 max measurement have shown strong correlations with reduction in all-cause mortality, reduction in coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and cancer.
How is VO2 max testing performed? The test will include measuring your weight, height, heart rate, and VO2 max. It may also include measuring your blood pressure. During the VO2 max test, you will exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while connected to a machine that can analyse your exhaled breath. If the exercise professional determines that you are not safe for VO2 max testing (e.g., due to high blood pressure), they will let you know and you will not be able to complete that portion of the physical assessment. They may provide you with a letter that you can bring to a medical doctor or nurse practitioner for medical clearance to participate in VO2 max testing. In this case, you may rebook the VO2 max test at a later time without charge. There are several instructions you’ll need to follow before your test (e.g., avoiding strenuous exercise right before the test) and these instructions will be communicated to you in advance by the exercise professional.
What might you learn from VO2 max testing? You’ll learn your VO2 max score, which is scientifically linked to be one of the best indicators of healthspan and longevity: the higher your VO2 max, the more likely that you live longer and do the activities of life with more ease.
What are the risks and limitations of VO2 max testing? Physical activities involved in this appointment may be strenuous and uncomfortable, and may involve you doing movements and activities that you are not familiar with. Like any physical exercise, VO2 max testing could lead to an adverse medical event, such as a cardiac emergency or musculoskeletal injury. You understand that you are responsible for monitoring your own condition during physical activity and letting the exercise professional know right away if you feel unwell. Should you choose to engage in physical activity, you should stop immediately if you feel unable to continue safely or do not want to continue for any reason. If you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or other unusual symptoms during physical activity, you should stop and let the exercise professional know, as well as seek out immediate medical attention.In the event of a medical emergency during the physical health assessment, you authorise the exercise professional’s clinic and its associated staff to take all reasonable responsive actions, including contacting your emergency contact and emergency services to provide care.
Cancellation Please give the exercise professional at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Because the time you booked has been set aside and dedicated to you, it is challenging to fill the time on short notice. The exercise professional’s clinic cannot guarantee that they will be able to promptly reschedule a late cancellation or missed visit.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard.
ApoE Testing
Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a protein involved in the transport and metabolism of lipids (fats) in the body. It plays a crucial role in regulating the levels of cholesterol and other lipids in the bloodstream. The ApoE gene has several common genetic variants, with APO E ε2, APO E ε3, and APO E ε4 being the most well-known. Each of these variants can impact an individual's risk of certain health conditions, primarily in relation to cardiovascular health and Alzheimer's disease.
How is ApoE testing performed? Once purchased, an ApoE test kit will be shipped directly to your home and arrive within 7-14 days. Do not eat or drink anything 30 minutes prior to providing your saliva sample. When you're ready, provide your sample, package it in the prepaid return envelope, and drop it off in any Canada Post mailbox or location.
What might you learn from ApoE testing? Your results will indicate your risks for developing neurodegenerative disease and cardiovascular disease specifically related to the ApoE genotype.
What are the limitations and risks of ApoE testing? ApoE tests are strictly informational. Like with other Healthspan tests, learning about your risk may be uncomfortable or distressing.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard.
DNA Methylation Testing
Chronic illnesses and the signs of aging, which are the foundational changes behind all diseases, aren't typically the result of a single gene. Instead, they're influenced by modifications in the patterns of expression of your genes, commonly referred to as epigenetics. This test is used to predict biological age based on the observation that specific patterns of DNA methylation change in a predictable manner as an individual ages. Methylation patterns can change with behaviours (changes in blood metrics, sleep, diet etc.)
How is DNA methylation testing performed? Once purchased, a DNAm kit will be shipped directly to your home and arrive within 7-14 days. Do not eat or drink anything 30 minutes prior to providing your saliva sample. When you're ready, provide your sample, package it in the prepaid return mailer, and drop it off in any Canada Post mailbox or location. When your DNA is sent to our partner lab for testing, we de-identify from any personal information and track it with a unique barcode that only Healthspan knows is linked to you.
What might you learn from DNA methylation testing? You’ll learn your Biological Age, which is an estimate of the amount of methylation in your DNA at the time you took the test. The test allows you to track the effects of some longevity interventions in real time. The amount of methylation is changeable over time with interventions and can be represented by the Biological Age score increasing or decreasing.
What are the limitations of DNA methylation testing? DNA methylation tests are strictly informational. Like with other Healthspan tests, learning about your risk may be uncomfortable or distressing. Additionally, DNA methylation testing is still a developing field and more studies are needed to draw a conclusive link between biological age and chronic diseases.
How will you learn your results? Your results will be uploaded to your Healthspan Dashboard.
