What is a polygenic risk score?
Genomics allows us to study a person's genome, which is their complete set of DNA. Testing your genome can provide important insights into your health. It can show if you might be at higher risk for certain conditions. One useful tool that helps us to do this is a polygenic risk score. Here, I explain what polygenic risk scores are and how they can help you feel more informed about your health.
What does it mean if a disease is polygenic?
Between people, our genomes are around 99.9 percent identical. But in that 0.1 percent are differences that make us unique. These differences in the genome are called variants. Some gene variants are harmless, while other variants might make us more likely to develop disease.
A polygenic disease is one where multiple gene variants each add to your overall risk of getting the disease. Some gene variants may add a large amount of risk, while others add a small amount. Your environment and lifestyle also shape how these variants affect you.
What is a polygenic risk score?
A polygenic risk score (PRS) adds up the effects of many genetic variants. This helps estimate your overall risk for a specific condition. A polygenic risk score for coronary artery disease, for example, will be calculated using multiple gene variants that have been associated with that condition.
You’ll have different polygenic risk scores for different conditions. Knowing your polygenic risk score for a certain disease can help you to manage or prevent the condition. For example, if you get a high polygenic risk score for type 2 diabetes, you might choose to change your diet or be more active.
How is polygenic risk score calculated?
A polygenic risk score is calculated by comparing your DNA to that of people who’ve developed the condition. Similarities are searched for in your genes. The more of these variations you have, the higher your risk of developing that condition.
How to interpret a polygenic risk score?
The higher your score, the greater your estimated risk. But there are actions you can take to help decrease your risk.
When you receive your polygenic risk score you’ll talk to a trained healthcare professional. They can help you understand your results and recommend next steps, such as lifestyle changes.
Are polygenic risk scores accurate?
While a polygenic risk score can give an indication of your risk, it is an estimate. A polygenic risk score can’t definitively predict whether you’ll develop a condition or not. You might have gene variants that increase your risk of a condition, but still never develop it.
Most data for polygenic risk scores comes from people of European ancestry. This is because there’s a lack of data from the genomes of people from different ancestral backgrounds. So, if you’re from a non-European background, polygenic risk scores may be less accurate for you.
How do I get a polygenic risk score?
Polygenic risk scores are not widely available on the NHS yet. Some private healthcare companies and labs offer polygenic risk scores. They charge a fee for this.
Recent clinical trials have tested whether polygenic risk scores can predict diseases such as heart disease and prostate cancer. If you wish, you can sign up to be matched to clinical trials at the Be Part of Research website.
It's a good idea to talk to your GP or a trained health professional before undergoing genetic testing. They can help you decide if it’s right for you.
DNA Health Check
A DNA Health Check looks at your genetic risk for conditions such as breast or prostate cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Helping you take proactive steps to stay healthier for longer.
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Sources Sources
- Variant. National Genomic Education Programme. genomicseducation.hee.nhs.uk, last reviewed July 2024
- Polygenic Trait. National Human Genome Research Institute. genome.gov, last updated February 2026
- Polygenic risk scores explained. UK Biobank. ukbiobank.ac.uk, published February 2026
- Genetic counselling - a guide for GPs. Patient. patient.info, last updated August 2023
- Abu-El-Haija A, Reddi HV, Wand H, et al; ACMG Professional Practice and Guidelines Committee. The clinical application of polygenic risk scores: A points to consider statement of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). Genet Med. 2023;25(5):100803. doi: 10.1016/j.gim.2023.100803
- NHS 10 Year Plan | Update. Genetic Alliance UK. geneticalliance.org.uk, published July 2025
- Direct-to-consumer genetic testing. Genetic Alliance UK. geneticalliance.org.uk, accessed February 2026
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