Labcorp expanded its genetic testing portfolio in August with the addition of the Marker by Labcorp Genetic Health Panel. The panel provides hereditary genetic risk testing and resources for adults who need more information about their possible inherited risks of serious and medically actionable health conditions. Medical Laboratory Observer (MLO) recently spoke with Leslie Saltzman, DO, MBA, vice president of Consumer Health Solutions at Labcorp about the panel and the role of hereditary genetic risk testing.

MLO: Can you speak more about the Marker by Labcorp Genetic Health Panel and the diagnostic gaps it will fill?

LS: Marker by Labcorp helps consumers identify inherited genetic variants associated with more than 100 medically actionable health conditions.

Research shows nearly one in six adults who undergo genetic testing discover a variant linked to a serious and medically actionable health condition, yet many people remain unaware of inherited risks that may affect their long-term health.

Marker by Labcorp is designed to help close that awareness gap by providing consumers with genetic insights they can discuss with their healthcare provider.

Because it is available through Labcorp OnDemand and integrated into MyLabcorp, consumers can access genetic testing alongside Labcorp's broad portfolio of biomarker testing, creating a more comprehensive and convenient view of their health in one place.

MLO: How does the panel fit into Labcorp's broader testing strategy?

LS: Marker by Labcorp expands our growing portfolio of consumer health offerings available through Labcorp OnDemand. It reflects Labcorp’s broader commitment to making advanced testing and personalized health insights more accessible while complementing Labcorp's existing provider-ordered genetics and diagnostic testing portfolio.

MLO: Which individuals are likely to benefit most from this type of hereditary genetic screening?

The test is designed for adults who want to better understand potential inherited health risks and take a more proactive approach to their health.

It may be especially valuable for individuals who have limited knowledge of their family health history, including those who were adopted or do not have access to complete family medical information.

The test is intended for adults who have not had a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, have not received a blood transfusion within the previous two weeks, have not had a liver transplant, and are not currently undergoing cancer treatment.

Marker by Labcorp may not provide a comprehensive clinical assessment for individuals at high inherited genetic risk. Those with strong family histories of certain hereditary conditions, including cancer syndromes, malignant hyperthermia, inherited cardiovascular disease, or other known genetic disorders, may benefit from consultation with a healthcare provider or genetics professional to determine which test is appropriate.