Inherited Traits - Skin - Cellulite

Cellulite is a term that refers to lumpy or dimpled flesh. It occurs primarily on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen, and is much more common in women than men. The occurrence of cellulite is not a serious medical condition, but may be unsightly and many with cellulite are self-conscious about it. Cellulite occurs in fibrous connective cords that attach skin to the underlying muscle. When fat cells accumulate, they push up against these fibers resulting in a dimpled appearance of the skin.

The occurence of cellulite increases with age. While there are a variety of treatments for cellulite, there is considerable variability in effectiveness. The occurrence of cellulite tends to run in families, suggesting that there are genetic contributions to susceptibility.

Advances in genomics are beginning to elucidate genetic variations that contribute to an individual's susceptiblity to develop cellulite. In particular, there is a very common variant of the ACE gene, which encodes the angioensin I converting enzyme, that contributes to an increased susceptibility to develop cellulite. Individuals with this genetic variant may be able to take earlier preventive measures to reduce the development of cellulite.  

Now, by testing with Genomic Express, you can learn whether you are at increased risk of developing cellulite. Be proactive now to minimize the development of unsightly celluilite.