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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

ALDH2 Gene Acute Alcohol Sensitivity Genetic Test

This genetic test identifies variations in the ALDH2 gene that may cause heightened sensitivity to alcohol, leading to adverse reactions like flushing and nausea.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Blood sample or saliva sample. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
Results
Confirm turnaround time with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 40,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the ALDH2 Gene Acute Alcohol Sensitivity Genetic Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Experiencing flushing or redness after drinking alcohol
  • ✓Nausea or vomiting after alcohol intake
  • ✓Palpitations or increased heart rate when consuming alcohol
  • ✓Family history of alcohol sensitivity
  • ✓Desire to understand personal alcohol metabolism
  • ✓Making informed decisions about alcohol consumption
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies genetic variations in the ALDH2 gene associated with alcohol sensitivity, helping individuals understand their risk of adverse reactions to alcohol consumption.
The ALDH2 Gene Acute Alcohol Sensitivity test uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to analyze your ALDH2 gene. This gene is important for processing alcohol in the body. Certain genetic variations can lead to a reduced ability to metabolize alcohol, causing unpleasant symptoms after drinking. Understanding your genetic predisposition can help you make informed choices about alcohol consumption and manage potential health risks. This test provides insights into why some individuals experience adverse reactions to alcohol, such as flushing, nausea, and rapid heartbeat.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SampleBlood sample or saliva sample. Confirm specific requirements with the laboratory before booking.
MethodologyNext-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is used to analyze the ALDH2 gene for specific variants.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test identifies specific genetic variations in the ALDH2 gene. It does not predict the exact severity of alcohol sensitivity or guarantee the absence of adverse reactions. Other genetic and environmental factors can also influence alcohol metabolism. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

The ALDH2 gene provides instructions for making an enzyme that helps break down alcohol in the body. Variations in this gene can affect how efficiently this process occurs.
Symptoms can include facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, headache, and dizziness after consuming alcohol.
This test provides information about your genetic predisposition to alcohol sensitivity. It does not provide medical advice on alcohol consumption. Discuss your results and lifestyle choices with a healthcare professional.
Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for genetic testing.
A sample can typically be collected via blood draw or saliva. Confirm the required sample type with the laboratory.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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