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What’s in your genes?

We know that both genes and environmental factors contribute to why people develop problems with addiction – alcohol or other drugs, gambling or binge eating. We bring together the latest scientific advances in genetics and psychology to create personalized estimates of your chances to develop these problems.

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What happens after I order CARES

1

Complete 3-part survey

2

Mail in your genetic testing kit

3

Receive your risk profile

4

Access expert resources

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About this platform

Reach your potential and avoid pitfalls

It’s the luck of the draw when it comes to the genes you were born with. But genes aren’t destiny. Genes are only part of the story – the other part is our experiences (or environmental factors, if you like) – they also matter in whether we develop these problems. So, by knowing if your genes increase your risk for substance use or mental health challenges you can take steps to reduce the chance you’ll ever develop problems.

How the platform works

Uncover the latest scientific advances in genetics and psychology

Tell Us About You

Fill out a survey through our online platform
 

Spit in a Tube

Mail us a saliva sample in a pre-packaged kit so we can extract DNA and measure your genes

Get Your Risk Estimate

We combine your survey and genetic information to create a personalized risk profile specific to you

Live Your Best Life

Get access to tailored resources to support your health and wellbeing

Parent

Are you a parent considering CARES for your teen?

If you’re a parent who wants to engage your teen in meaningful conversations about substance use and addiction that’s wonderful! Engaged, supportive parents can reduce kids’ risk of developing problems. CARES may be a tool to help some families structure those conversations and provide meaningful risk information for adolescents who are mature enough to process the material.  We believe that parents are best positioned to gauge whether their adolescent is ready to understand the material and how to use the information to support their health and wellbeing. 

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Cost of CARES

$149

Our goal is to make CARES accessible to as many individuals as possible. Your purchase covers the cost of your DNA kit, shipping, DNA extraction and processing, the generation of genetic risk scores, the integration of genomic and behavioral information to create your profile, and maintaining the web platform. The Rutgers Addiction Research Center is currently able to provide CARES to individuals at a cost of $149. 

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Ready to find out your personalized risk profile?