23/10/2025
You asked… and Dr Rebecca answered! Here are the top 10 questions around Genomics, Medication Check and DNA Health Check.
💙 What is Genomics?
Genomics is the study of your DNA and how it interacts with your environment to influence your traits and health.
💙 Is Medication Check the same as an allergy test?
No. Allergy tests detect immune reactions to medications. Medication Check looks at how your genes affect how your body processes medicines.
💙 What is the DNA Health Check?
This is a genomic test available to eligible health assessment customers. It provides insights into your risk of developing conditions such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
💙 What does Medication Check do?
It analyses your genetic response to over 100 commonly used medications, including those prescribed by your GP or bought over the counter.
💙 How do I take the test?
Receive a saliva collection kit by post.
Provide your sample and return it using the prepaid envelope.
Receive your results via email in around 4 weeks.
Book an optional 30-minute GP consultation to discuss your results.
💙 Who can take the test?
UK residents aged 18+
No need to be a Bupa customer
Not suitable if you’ve had a recent blood transfusion or certain transplants (bone marrow, stem cell, liver, or kidney).
💙 What happens to my data?
Your data is securely stored and processed by Bupa and trusted third-party providers in the UK, with strict privacy protections in place.
💙 Why is genomics important in healthcare?
Genomics enables personalised medicine, which allows healthcare professionals tailor treatments and medications to your unique genetic profile.
💙 What is the human genome?
The human genome is the complete set of genetic instructions in your DNA, made up of around 20,000 genes arranged in 23 chromosome pairs.
💙 What does PGx mean?
PGx stands for pharmacogenomics which the study of how your genes influence your response to medications, helping guide safer and more effective treatment choices.
