Frequently asked Questions
Xcode Life...who we are
Among the companies offering DNA health insights, Xcode Life has the largest portfolio of genetic trait reports. Xcode Life's scientific team curates information from authentic research publications and presents this information as actionable wellness insights in your reports. Xcode Life also offers a wide variety of tests ranging from genotyping (ancestry tests) to Whole Genome Sequencing.
What is Xcode Life genetic test? What is the major benefit?
The Xcode Life genetic test has been designed from data curated from genomic analysis of the Indian and South Asian population. The test offering provides an individual with a glimpse into their genetic history and an insight into their future health based on their unique genetic make-up. The genetic test offers you information on the following: Your origin and ancestry composition Your bodies response to several drugs across various conditions Insights on various conditions related to cholesterol, cancer etc. inherited or otherwise Details on whether you could be a carrier for any of these genetic conditions.
How it works
You need to get an Xcode Life kit. The kit contains a tube in which you need to provide 2ml of your saliva is the sample requirement. Once you register this kit you will receive an email and SMS and be contacted by our representative for sample pick up. DNA will be extracted from your spit and processed via different techniques. Once your data is analysed and processed the same will be available online in the form of a report. You can login to your Xcode Life account and view this report and download the same as well.
What does the Xcode life test cover?
We currently offer 4 different reports: Gene Nutrition, Gene Fitness, Gene Health and Ancestry.
How to understand your results?
The reports are usually detailed and self-explanatory. However should you want more details and help in understanding the same you could schedule a call with our genetic counsellors at no charge. We have a team of trained and certified genetic counsellors who are available to help you understand your test results better
Can I order more than 1 test?
Yes, you can order as many tests as you want. You can also buy these for family and friends
Can I order this test for my children?
Yes, since the test is a simple saliva test you can order for your children as well. However this test is for adults who are 18 years or above only and not for minors.
Is there anything unexpected that I can learn from this test?
We offer genetic counselling services to help you understand the test results. Our genetic counsellors can help you in understanding the results and facilitate discussions with your healthcare provider as well as family members.
What is your returns and refund policy?
In the event that you are not fully satisfied with the service you have availed, we would be happy to issue a full refund of the amount to you within 24 hours from the time you have asked for a refund.
What does QC quality control fail mean?
Pre Quality control fail when there is not enough saliva provided to extract the DNA. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the instructions on the website carefully while collecting the sample.
We fail a sample in QC when the DNA extracted is not enough to carry out further tests.
Do I get a refund if my sample fails quality control?
If the sample fails the quality control, we will arrange for a blood sample collection. Please write to contact@xcode.in or call +917550123232
I don't live in India; how do I take this test?
Yes, you can take the test. However, we need an Indian shipping address to dispatch the kit. Presently we don’t ship the kits outside of India.
How do I track my sample?
You will get alerts at various stages indicating the status of your sample kit right from the time it reaches the processing lab to when your results are out. You may choose to email or SMS channels to receive these alerts.
What is the turnaround time for these reports?
You will get your reports within 4-6 weeks from the time your sample is received at the processing lab. You will receive an SMS or email alert once the report is available online. You can use your login credentials to access the report. Sometimes unplanned delays could be expected.
How do I take my own saliva sample?
Do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum for 30 minutes before giving your saliva sample. Do NOT remove the plastic film from the funnel lid that contains the clear liquid. Spit into the open funnel until the amount of saliva (not bubbles) reaches the fill line. Most people take 2 to 5 minutes to fill the tube. Please confirm if you have gone through a bone marrow transplant before the test.
What is informed consent?
Informed consent is essential before enrolling a participant and ongoing once enrolled. Obtaining consent involves informing the subject about his or her rights, the purpose of the study, the procedures to be undergone, and the potential risks and benefits of participation.
The goal of the informed consent process is to provide sufficient information so that a participant can make an informed decision about whether or not to enrol in a study or to continue participation.
What does consent to store my sample mean?
This means that your DNA sample will be stored with the processing lab for a minimum period of 3 months for the purpose of conducting additional tests that you opt-in for.
Can I opt-in to additional modules later?
Information on any new tests and offerings will be provided on a periodic basis via our awareness programs, alerts and on the site. You could opt-in for additional tests based on what is of interest to you.
Can I use my account to register my family members?
Yes.
Where is the barcode on the kits?
The barcode can be found on the side flap on the kit box.
Can we find parents and relatives through this test?
We currently don’t offer this feature.
Who can see my data?
You can view data of your family only if you have a shared account with all kits registered under the same account. Apart this no one else can see your data. Your data may also be used for research purposes. However, the same will be deidentified or anonymized.
What is the minimum age requirement for this test?
There is no minimum age requirement.