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If you already have a DNA data file, you may want to upload it on a genetic decoding platform. This will give you more insights into your own health. One of these platforms is SelfDecode.
SelfDecode is a DNA testing and analysis company. It was founded in 2016 by Joe Cohen, the same person who established SelfHacked (a personalized genetics blog) and Lab Test Analyzer (another testing service).
Unlike other DNA testing services, it doesn’t provide ancestry information. SelfDecode claims to be “the only company doing AI in genomics & real precision health.” To put it simply, its focus is human health.
If you already have files from 23andme or AncestryDNA, just upload them to SelfDecode’s portal to receive more insights. If you don’t have any raw DNA data, you can purchase a SelfDecode DNA test kit to get started.
The DNA company looks at genetic variants that may be causing health problems. It also gives personalized health recommendations based on your genetic information. This allows you to make lifestyle changes for optimal health.
You will get results and recommendations through various health reports, which you can access with any paid plan. Alternatively, you can upload your raw DNA for free and only pay for the reports you want.
Is SelfDecode’s subscription worth it? Yes, we think so.
SelfDecode offers the following plans:
1. Annual Subscription — Starts at $97/year
2. Lifetime Access — One-time payment of $297
3. Professional Plan — Starts at $199/month
All paid plans include access to health reports. You can also upload your raw DNA for free and pay per report. But if you don’t have a DNA file, you can buy a SelfDecode DNA test kit for $99.
Here’s what you get with your purchase:
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You can start with SelfDecode in two ways. Follow these steps if you already took a DNA test from another company:
If you haven’t had a DNA test before, these are the steps you need to take:
The Lab Test Analyzer (which comes free with your subscription) works similarly to SelfDecode’s DNA analysis:
SelfDecode has several security measures in place to protect your privacy. These include secure SSL-certified connections, external security penetration testing, and maintaining audit logs.
SelfDecode states that it will never sell customers’ genetic data to other companies or third parties. You fully own your data, which includes access to raw material and reports.
SelfDecode requires some basic information (like your name and email address). But you can use a pseudonym if you’re concerned about your privacy.
If you decide to delete your information, just send a request. SelfDecode will remove it from its database. Moreover, payment is processed through trusted companies like PayPal and Stripe.
SelfDecode’s menu is divided into two main categories:
After you open your account, you’ll see the dashboard. It displays links to 13 health areas:
You can access these reports through Genetics > Wellness Reports.
Let’s use my Gut Health report to view a sample report. I clicked on it, and it says I have four potential issues.
I chose Gallstones. The report has two types of views: Overview and Details.
Overview is the shorter report. It includes a summary of my gallstone condition, genetic risk score, and personalized recommendations on handling gallstones.
Details showed me more information about each. There is more information about my condition, how genes played a role, and supporting studies. It also shows my genetic risk score and recommendations (same with Overview).
There are currently 56 health topics. Some of them include:
SelfDecode says it constantly releases new health reports and updates the database based on further studies. This ensures you are up-to-date with the latest in health information.
Here are the new health reports released recently. You can generate as many reports as you like.
Aside from Wellness Reports, the two other reports found under Genetics are:
In My Regimen, you can collect your Wellness Reports and Labs recommendations and then put them in this section as your change regimen.
The second category is Labs, which contains:
Labs correspond to the Lab Test Analyzer which comes free with a SelfDecode annual subscription or lifetime membership. Typically, it’s an extra $97/year.
Labs is for people experiencing health symptoms even though their lab tests are in the “normal” range. They can upload their lab results on Input Labs to get personalized analysis and recommendations under Results.
If you don’t have lab test results available for analysis, you can order lab tests under Shop Labs.
The lab reports can be used independently or with SelfDecode’s health reports. You’ll get a complete picture of your health if you combine them.
For instance, use Wellness Reports to see your genetic predispositions to specific health problems. Afterward, you can use Labs to confirm the findings.
Some satisfied customers of SelfDecode have left them glowing reviews, such as:
"SelfDecode gives you an extensive overview of your health relative to your genes. You also get simple suggestions for how to deal with or mitigate challenges you may have. I’m a lifetime member and a very satisfied customer."
"I'm very impressed with this company! They even analyze lab results you have taken at your physicians office! Even tho yours labs may be within standards "normal limits" they recommend how to optimize your health. I can't wait to get my final report ! My experience has been amazing thus far.. it can only get better!"
Below, we compare SelfDecode with other DNA testing options that you can do at home:
23andme remains the top choice for genetic health testing. Its Health+Ancestry package costs $199, including a DNA kit and 150+ wellness and ancestry reports.
You also get updated results whenever there’s new research. Most importantly, several of 23andme’s reports are FDA-approved. SelfDecode has none.
But if you already have raw DNA data from a supported company, SelfDecode’s yearly subscription is an affordable option for $97. You can also choose to pay-per-report and only get insights that matter most for your health.
Read our 23andMe review.
The AncestryDNA Traits package lets you do several things. It can help you find DNA matches, learn about your ancestry, and discover the genetics behind your traits. It costs $119, including a DNA test kit.
Meanwhile, SelfDecode is mainly focused on providing health information through raw DNA. If you don't have one, you have to buy their test kit separately.
Pick AncestryDNA if you are more concerned with your genetic background. Otherwise, SelfDecode is our top pick if you want to know more about your health.
Read our Ancestry DNA review.
MyHeritage sells DNA kits for $79, lower than Joe Cohen’s SelfDecode which costs $99.
You do have to pay an extra $120 to access MyHeritage's health reports, which are currently limited to 23 genetic health risks and 27 carrier status reports.
SelfDecode provides unlimited health reports with their paid plans at no extra cost. It's the better choice compared to MyHeritage in terms of pricing and comprehensive results.
Read our MyHeritage review.
Like SelfDecode, Genomelink is also a genetic decoding platform. Simply upload your raw DNA data from AncestryDNA or 23andme, and they will analyze it to uncover more information.
Genomelink provides both health and ancestry information, while SelfDecode focuses only on health.
Unfortunately, it can only process genetic data from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage. SelfDecode accepts data from at least 11 DNA testing companies.
The best thing about Genomelink is that you can readily access 25 reports for free. But if you want exclusive health reports, go for SelfDecode. If you don't want a paid membership, you can always upload your raw DNA for free and pay for the reports that you like.
Read our Genomelink review.
SelfDecode DNA wellness reports are comprehensive and easy to understand. They are even supported by scientific research. The company uses these insights to give people health recommendations.
Another advantage of SelfDecode is that it values your privacy. It has several security practices in place. It would never sell your data to third parties or other companies.
Then there’s the subscription. You can:
If you have taken a DNA test with other companies, SelfDecode gives you the option to explore your genes without having to buy another test kit.
The only catch is that SelfDecode’s reports are not FDA-approved. Their reports are meant for informational and educational purposes.
After comparing SelfDecode with its competitors, I think it's a great option if you have raw DNA data or if haven't tested with other companies.
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