The examination of risk factors, genetic predispositions to diseases, and lifestyle choices this

week has shown an intriguing tango between human behavior and biology. Our health
outcomes are shaped by a complicated interplay between our inherited genetic code and the
actions or inactions we take.

One important lesson is that genes determine our biology and our vulnerability to specific
diseases. Genes set the stage, behavior plays the act. An example of this would be a family
history of heart disease, which implies but does not prove a genetic susceptibility. Behavior can
be modified powerfully through lifestyle choices. Even with a genetic predisposition, maintaining
a healthy weight through food and exercise can substantially lower the risk (Leońska-Duniec et
al., 2016).

This week, I also learned about the notion of epigenetics, which adds yet another level of
complexity. It draws attention to the way that environmental factors such as lifestyle decisions
can affect how genes are expressed. For instance, long-term stress can affect how genes are
methylated, which may raise the chance of developing diseases like depression. This supports
the idea that our actions can influence how our genes are expressed(CDC, 2020).

One of the things I discovered this week is the strength of individualism. Every individual has a
unique interaction between behavior and genetics. For a given genetic composition, an
individual's increased risk of a disease may not have the same impact on another. Personalized
illness prevention requires both adopting good lifestyle choices and understanding our biology
through genetic testing (Leońska-Duniec et al., 2016).

Nature vs. Nurture: I used to think that our lifestyle choices had less of an impact on our health
than our genetic makeup. The readings focused on how behavior has a significant impact on
our health and how, regardless of our genetic makeup, we can control our health (Cherry, n.d).

Dispelling Preconceived Notions

I used to think of genetics as kind of deterministic until this past week. I thought that if you were
born with a particular gene mutation, you were bound to get the corresponding disease. This
idea was contested by the readings. They highlighted the ability of behavior to mitigate the
effects of genetics. This gives us the ability to take charge of our health by making wise
decisions.

Another misconception I had was that leading a healthy lifestyle meant only doing exercise and
eating right. This viewpoint was expanded by the readings. They emphasized the significance
of variables impacting general health and illness risk, such as social interactions, stress
management, and sleep.

Adding New Ideas

I had never heard of the notion of epigenetics before. Comprehending how lifestyle and
environment can impact gene expression presents promising opportunities for customized
therapy. It may be possible to design preventative strategies that are specific to each person's
genetic composition and lifestyle decisions, which could lead to a future with fewer diseases.

The Importance of This Knowledge

With this increased understanding, I am more equipped to make decisions regarding my health.
Although my genes cannot be changed, I can greatly influence how they are expressed by the
lifestyle decisions I make. The importance of putting on a good diet, consistent exercise, enough
sleep, and stress management techniques first grows.

Using this information, one may also promote a more significant change in society.
Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices via information and easily available health resources can
enable communities to take proactive measures to manage their health risks. Furthermore,
studies on the interaction between genetics and behavior can result in the creation of more
specialized therapeutic and preventative measures.

Conclusion
The educational journey that we have undertaken this week has been insightful. Dispelling
misconceptions and proposing intriguing ideas like epigenetics has brought attention to the
complex dance between behavior and biology. I can now take control of my health and promote
a more preventive approach to healthcare because of my newly acquired knowledge. Knowing
that our genes do not determine our destiny but rather work in concert with our lifestyle choices
sends a strong message of optimism and agency over our health.

Reference

CDC. (2020, August 3). What is Epigenetics? | CDC. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/epigenetics.htm#:~:text=While%20genetic
%20changes%20can%20alter

Cherry., K. (n.d.). Genetics Are Just One Part of How Children Develop. Verywell Mind.
Retrieved March 15, 2024, from https://www.verywellmind.com/genes-and-development-
2795114#:~:text=Nature%20vs.

Leońska-Duniec, A., Ahmetov, I., & Zmijewski, P. (2016). Genetic variants influencing the
effectiveness of exercise training programs in obesity – an overview of human studies. Biology
of Sport, 33(3), 207–214. https://doi.org/10.5604/20831862.1201052