How Do I Get an ALDH2 Gene Test?

You can get a quick, inexpensive, at-home DNA test for the ALDH2 gene. Orig3n, a leading DNA testing company, is offering an ALDH2 Gene test for just $29. Through our exclusive partnership, we are offering a 10% discount on any of Orig3n's genetics products. Orig3n is focused on helping people understand the link between their genes and their health. Just enter the code DELTA10 when checking out on Orig3n's website to receive 10% off your order. You can find the ALDH2 Deficiency test, including tests for Vitamin A & C deficiency, here: ALDH2 Deficiency test.

Below is more information about the test, what it will tell you, and why you may want to take it. 

Getting Tested for ALDH2 Deficiency

A simple DNA test, using an easy at-home cheek swab for $29, can tell you whether you have ALDH2 Deficiency. ALDH2 Deficiency is caused by a mutation on a specific gene that encodes the ALDH2 enzyme. The ALDH2 test looks for whether or not that mutation is present in your genes.

Many people rely on the experience of Alcohol Flush Reaction as the main indicator that they have ALDH2 Deficiency. However, there are several reasons you may want to go a step further and get an ALDH2 gene test. If you do not drink, or are too young to drink alcohol, an ALDH2 gene test can identify whether you have ALDH2 Deficiency and should be aware of your exposure to the sources of acetaldehyde. The simple gene test can also clear up any confusion about whether you have ALDH2 Deficiency or instead have an allergy to a specific ingredient or certain type of alcohol.

Single vs Double ALDH2 Deficiency

An ALDH2 gene test can also show whether you have a single ALDH2 mutation, or a double mutation. For every gene, we receive two copies, one from each parent. It only takes one mutated gene to have ALDH2 Deficiency and be vulnerable to acetaldehyde and greater long term health risks. Those with a mutation in both gene copies (double mutation) are even more vulnerable to acetaldehyde.

Alcohol consumption for those with ‘Double ALDH2 Deficiency’ can be very unpleasant. It is even more important for these individuals to limit their exposure to acetaldehyde because they have almost no ability to metabolize the toxin. People with ALDH2 Deficiency have higher long term rates of gastric cancers, liver cirrhosis, Alzheimer’s and osteoporosis from their weakened ability to break down acetaldehyde. 

Passing ALDH2 Deficiency to Your Children

Another important reason to know if we have ALDH2 Deficiency, and whether we have a single vs double ALDH2 mutation, is how it may affect our children as we pass our genes down to them. It only takes one mutated gene to cause ALDH2 Deficiency. As a result, if you have a single ALDH2 mutation, there is a 50% chance your children will have ALDH2 Deficiency, and if you have a double ALDH2 mutation, there is a 100% chance all of your children will have ALDH2 Deficiency.

Do I Have ALDH2 Deficiency or Something Else?

Many people are curious whether their reaction to alcohol is caused by the ALDH2 mutation, or something else. If you are of East Asian descent, there is a high likelihood that your reaction to alcohol is caused by ALDH2 Deficiency. Non-Asians can also have ALDH2 Deficiency, but it is much less common. If you experience flushing and other symptoms when drinking, but aren’t sure whether you have ALDH2 Deficiency or an allergy to something in the alcohol, the ALDH2 gene test can help you determine this.