Myths vs facts: Cardio Risk Check | Herz-Kreislauf Risiko-Test and sleep

The claim that a Cardio Risk Check can accurately predict your cardiovascular risk solely from genetic markers or a microbiome test is a myth. Established risk factors include blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and sleep quality (e.g., duration, sleep apnea). While sleep indeed affects cardiovascular health, the effect sizes of individual genetic variants are small and context-dependent. Consumer tests that derive a 'heart risk' from DNA or stool samples often overstate clinical utility. The fact is: a comprehensive risk profile requires medical assessments (blood pressure, lipids, ECG) and consideration of sleep habits. Lack of sleep or sleep disorders are proven to increase hypertension and heart attack risk, but no single consumer test replaces a doctor's evaluation. Be wary of tests offered without physician involvement – especially in Germany, where health-related DTC genetic tests are restricted by law.