What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about your genetic risk for coronary heart disease, especially if heart disease runs in your family. It looks for a specific gene variant (KIF6) that has been linked to a higher chance of having a heart attack or other heart-related event. Knowing your genetic status can help guide decisions about cholesterol-lowering treatment before problems start.

What's included in this test?

This test looks at a single gene variant known as KIF6, which has been studied for its connection to coronary heart disease risk. Rather than measuring blood chemistry like cholesterol, it checks your DNA to see if you carry a version of this gene associated with higher heart disease risk and a potentially stronger response to certain statin medications.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your online account along with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative finding means. If you carry the gene variant, a practical next step is discussing statin therapy options and focusing on heart-healthy habits like diet and exercise, since research suggests certain statins may lower risk more in people with this variant. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and since this is a one-time genetic result, there's no need to retrack it over time like other biomarkers.

How can I naturally support heart health?

Regardless of your genetic result, eating more fiber, vegetables, and healthy fats while cutting back on processed foods and added sugar supports heart health. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and managing stress all lower cardiovascular risk. Some people also find that omega-3 fatty acids and reducing sodium intake help support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

When will I get my results?

Results for this genetic test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed. You'll get a notification once your report is available in your online account. Because this is a one-time DNA test, you won't need to repeat it later.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with a family history of early heart disease or heart attacks, especially if close relatives had heart events at a young age. It's also useful for anyone already on or considering statin therapy who wants more information about how they might respond to treatment. People who want a fuller picture of their heart disease risk beyond standard cholesterol tests may also benefit.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Since this is a genetic risk test, it's not tied to specific symptoms — many people with the gene variant have no symptoms at all until a cardiac event occurs. However, if you have a family history of heart attacks, strokes, or sudden cardiac events, especially in relatives under 55, that's a strong reason to consider testing. Existing risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes can also make this test worth exploring.

What is the KIF6 gene variant and why does it matter?

KIF6 is a gene that has been studied for its link to coronary heart disease risk. People who carry a certain version of this gene appear to have a somewhat higher risk of heart attacks and other cardiac events, and some research suggests they may benefit more from certain statin medications like atorvastatin or pravastatin. Understanding your KIF6 status adds another layer of information beyond cholesterol numbers alone when thinking about heart disease prevention.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means you carry the gene variant associated with increased coronary heart disease risk. This doesn't mean you will definitely develop heart disease, but it suggests you may want to be more proactive with heart-healthy lifestyle changes and discuss whether statin therapy makes sense for you. Combining this information with other risk factors, like cholesterol levels and family history, gives the most complete picture.

What should I do if my results show I carry the risk variant?

If you carry the KIF6 variant, focus on the heart-health basics: a balanced diet low in saturated fat, regular exercise, not smoking, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol in check. It's also worth looking into statin options, since some studies show people with this variant respond particularly well to atorvastatin or pravastatin. Retesting isn't necessary since your genetic makeup doesn't change, but tracking your cholesterol and blood pressure regularly is still a smart move.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Cardio IQ KIF6 Test - Heart Disease Risk Gene

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]