3 reasons genes that don't control our fate

If our health destinies are pre-programmed, does it really matter whether we take care of our bodies? These are some reasons to think outside your chromosomes.

• In short, yes. The so-called breast cancer gene, BRCA1, offers a good example.
• There's no doubt the gene's effect is powerful. Some 60 to 80 percent of women who have a mutation of this gene will develop breast cancer, as compared to 13 percent who don't.
• But that means that as many as 40 percent of women who inherit a BRCA1 mutation never develop breast cancer. This suggests that perhaps their lifestyle choices give them some protection.

• Scientists believe that the majority of cancer cases are not caused by inherited bad genes.
• Researchers looked at the incidence of various cancers among nearly 45,000 sets of twins. They concluded that genetic factors have a minor contribution to most forms of the disease.
• The evidence clearly shows that environment has a greater influence on cancer risk.

• Environment and its effects also hold true for other diseases that can rob you of years.
• Many studies suggest that genes are the reasoning for about thirty percent of the diseases or health complications you could contract. Maybe less.
• Other factors include diet, physical activity level and personal habits, such as tobacco use and alcohol consumption.
• In other words, you can't change your DNA, but what makes up the rest of the pie is largely up to you.

You'll often hear that your fate is sealed when it comes to disease and genes, but that isn't necessarily true. You aren't just your chromosomes. You're also your choices.