WALTHAM, Mass., Dec. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Interleukin Genetics, Inc. (NYSE Amex: ILI) announced today availability of the Bone Health Genetic Test designed to detect genetic patterns associated with the development of osteoporosis-related outcomes. The test determines an individual's risk for developing vertebral or spinal fractures and low bone mineral density. Knowing one's genetic risk could allow an individual to take action towards building optimal bone health by following personalized guidance outlined in their genetic report, that may include recommendations for certain exercises, changing intake of Calcium and Vitamin D, as well as other lifestyle choices. The Bone Health Genetic Test is available through the Inherent Health brand of genetic tests at www.inherenthealth.com.
The Bone Health Genetic Test was developed following the completion of a 2,500-person clinical study conducted by Interleukin Genetics in collaboration with a university partner. In October at the American Society of Human Genetics 59th Annual Meeting, data from the study was presented by Interleukin Genetics that showed variations in the Interleukin 1 beta (IL1-B), Vitamin D receptor (VDR), and Estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) genes were strongly associated with risk of spine fracture or low bone mineral density. Association between these variations and vertebral fracture or bone mineral density was determined by logistic regression analysis with adjustment for age, BMI, estrogen use and other covariates.
The Bone Health Genetic Test analyzes gene variations that were identified from the study as showing statistically significantly increased risk for spinal fracture and low bone mineral density and provides risk information beyond that provided by traditional risk factors, such as age and Body Mass Index (BMI), in the assessment of an individual's overall risk for bone health.
"Through knowledge of one's genetic risk for fractures and low bone density, individuals will be able to take appropriate steps to maintain strong bone health prior to any measurable signs. Through proper diet and exercise the opportunity to prevent low bone mineral density and reduce the risk of spinal fracture is significantly improved," said Lewis H. Bender, CEO, Interleukin Genetics. "Not everyone has genetic predisposition for osteoporosis, which can progress painlessly until serious fracture occurs, but for those that do our new Bone Health Genetic Test can be a powerful preventative tool."
About Spine Fracture, Bone Mineral Density and Osteoporosis
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, or 55 percent of the people 50 years of age and older. In the U.S. today, 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk. While osteoporosis is often thought of as an older person's condition, it can strike at any age. Having osteoporosis means bones become fragile and are more likely to break. Fractures occur typically in the hip, spine and wrist. In addition, any bone can be affected, but of special concern are fractures of the hip and spine. Spinal or vertebral fractures can have serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain, and physical deformity.
About Interleukin Genetics
Interleukin Genetics, Inc. (NYSE Amex: ILI) develops and markets genetic tests that empower consumers to prevent certain chronic diseases and that assist pharmaceutical companies in the development and marketing of targeted therapeutics. The Company leverages its research, intellectual property and biomarker development experience to facilitate the emerging personalized health market. Interleukin Genetics markets a line of genetic tests under the Inherent Health brand including Bone Health, Weight Management, Hearth Health and Nutritional Needs. The Company is headquartered in Waltham, MA. For more information please visit www.ilgenetics.com.
Certain statements contained herein are "forward-looking" statements, including statements regarding the potential benefits of the Bone Health Genetic Test. Because such statements include risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risks and uncertainties described in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company disclaims any obligation or intention to update these forward-looking statements.
SOURCE Interleukin Genetics, Inc.
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The Bone Health Genetic Test was developed following the completion of a 2,500-person clinical study conducted by Interleukin Genetics in collaboration with a university partner. In October at the American Society of Human Genetics 59th Annual Meeting, data from the study was presented by Interleukin Genetics that showed variations in the Interleukin 1 beta (IL1-B), Vitamin D receptor (VDR), and Estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) genes were strongly associated with risk of spine fracture or low bone mineral density. Association between these variations and vertebral fracture or bone mineral density was determined by logistic regression analysis with adjustment for age, BMI, estrogen use and other covariates.
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The Bone Health Genetic Test analyzes gene variations that were identified from the study as showing statistically significantly increased risk for spinal fracture and low bone mineral density and provides risk information beyond that provided by traditional risk factors, such as age and Body Mass Index (BMI), in the assessment of an individual's overall risk for bone health.
"Through knowledge of one's genetic risk for fractures and low bone density, individuals will be able to take appropriate steps to maintain strong bone health prior to any measurable signs. Through proper diet and exercise the opportunity to prevent low bone mineral density and reduce the risk of spinal fracture is significantly improved," said Lewis H. Bender, CEO, Interleukin Genetics. "Not everyone has genetic predisposition for osteoporosis, which can progress painlessly until serious fracture occurs, but for those that do our new Bone Health Genetic Test can be a powerful preventative tool."
About Spine Fracture, Bone Mineral Density and Osteoporosis
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, or 55 percent of the people 50 years of age and older. In the U.S. today, 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk. While osteoporosis is often thought of as an older person's condition, it can strike at any age. Having osteoporosis means bones become fragile and are more likely to break. Fractures occur typically in the hip, spine and wrist. In addition, any bone can be affected, but of special concern are fractures of the hip and spine. Spinal or vertebral fractures can have serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain, and physical deformity.
About Interleukin Genetics
Interleukin Genetics, Inc. (NYSE Amex: ILI) develops and markets genetic tests that empower consumers to prevent certain chronic diseases and that assist pharmaceutical companies in the development and marketing of targeted therapeutics. The Company leverages its research, intellectual property and biomarker development experience to facilitate the emerging personalized health market. Interleukin Genetics markets a line of genetic tests under the Inherent Health brand including Bone Health, Weight Management, Hearth Health and Nutritional Needs. The Company is headquartered in Waltham, MA. For more information please visit www.ilgenetics.com.
Certain statements contained herein are "forward-looking" statements, including statements regarding the potential benefits of the Bone Health Genetic Test. Because such statements include risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risks and uncertainties described in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company disclaims any obligation or intention to update these forward-looking statements.
SOURCE Interleukin Genetics, Inc.
