What PRS Means mob
What PRS Means

What PRS Means: A Simple Guide to Your Genetic Score

Have you ever wondered why some people are more likely to develop certain health conditions than others, even if they live similar lifestyles? The answer often lies in our DNA. Scientists have developed a powerful tool called a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) to help us understand these secrets.

At LifeCode, we believe that knowing your genetic risks is the first step toward a longer, healthier life. By understanding what PRS means, you can take charge of your future today. 

To understand PRS, let’s look at the word itself. “Poly” means many, and “genic” refers to your genes. So, a polygenic score looks at many genes all at once.

According to Wikipedia, a polygenic score is “a number that summarizes the estimated effect of many genetic variants on an individual’s phenotype.” In simpler terms, it is a single number that tells you how your risk for a disease compares to other people based on thousands of tiny variations in your DNA. 

Think of your DNA like a big school project. 

  • Single-gene traits: Some traits are like a project done by one person. If that person makes a mistake, the whole project is affected. (This is how conditions like Sickle Cell Anemia work). 
  • Polygenic traits: Most health conditions, like heart disease or diabetes, are like a giant group project with hundreds or even thousands of students. Each student (gene) has a very small job. One student making a small mistake won’t ruin the project, but if hundreds of students make small mistakes, the final result will be different.

A PRS adds up all those tiny “mistakes” or variations to give you an overall score.

Scientists look at your DNA for small changes called SNPs (pronounced “snips”). These are tiny differences in the DNA sequence that make you unique.

By comparing your SNPs to the DNA of millions of other people, researchers can see patterns. If people with a certain pattern of SNPs often get high blood pressure, and you have that same pattern, your PRS for high blood pressure will be higher.

Knowing your score is like having a “weather report” for your health. If the forecast says there is an 80% chance of rain, you bring an umbrella. If your PRS says you have a high risk for a certain condition, you can take action to prevent it. 

PRS is commonly used to look at risks for: 

  • Heart Disease: Identifying people who might need heart check-ups earlier in life. 
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Helping people choose the right diet and exercise plans. 
  • Cancer: Determining who might benefit from more frequent screenings. 

Data shows that PRS can be a lifesaver. For example, research suggests that identifying individuals in the top 5% of genetic risk for coronary artery disease can help doctors prescribe preventative measures that reduce the risk of heart attacks by nearly 50%. According to the American College of Cardiology, using genetic scores alongside traditional tests helps catch risks that might otherwise be missed. 

You cannot find out your PRS just by looking in the mirror or checking your family history. The only way to get this information is through genetic testing.

Genetic testing used to be very expensive and complicated. Today, it is simple and accessible. A professional lab can scan your entire genome to find those thousands of tiny variations. Without this testing, your PRS remains a mystery.

At LifeCode, we use the most advanced technology to ensure your score is accurate. Our tests don’t just give you a number; they give you a roadmap. By visiting lifecode.life, you can access the tools needed to see what your DNA is trying to tell you. Genetic testing turns “hidden risks” into “actionable information.”

It is normal to feel a little nervous about your genetic results. However, remember that your DNA is not your destiny.

Having a high PRS for a condition does not mean you will definitely get it. It simply means you should be more careful. For many people, a high score is the motivation they need to start eating better, exercising more, or visiting the doctor regularly. At LifeCode, we see this knowledge as an act of compassion for your future self. You are giving yourself the gift of time and prevention.

  • Your genes hold the key to a personalized health plan. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear before you start caring for your body. Discover what your PRS means for you with the LifeCode Panel Advanced Genetic Testing.

    We provide easy-to-understand reports that help you and your doctor make the best decisions for your lifestyle. Let us help you unlock the power of your DNA at lifecode.life

January 12, 2026 Uncategorized