DNA test can help detect heart issues

(CNN) - DNA is already being used in criminal and paternity tests. But, now genetic testing offers doctors a new way to look for problems of the heart.

For years, Donna Mitchell has tried to lower her cholesterol levels through diet and exercise.

Now, she is hoping a cutting-edge genetic test will give her a better picture of her risk for developing heart disease.

"I want to live, I like living, I have grandchildren I want to see grow up," said Mitchell. "So, it was a no-brainer for me."

Doctors can test for millions of genetic variations for a number of diseases through a simple cheek swab and blood test.

They are looking for inherited traits passed on from relatives.

Mitchell's father died of a heart attack.

While some experts say this type of testing needs more development, Mitchell saw potential benefits and so did her doctor.

"If you have heart disease and you have one of these heart disease genes then the likelihood that is contributing to your problem is very high," said Dr. Robert Superko, of St. Joseph's Hospital in Atlanta. "And, if it gives you a therapeutic direction, a diet or drug to take then it becomes valuable."

Mitchell's testing revealed that she would benefit from taking a cholesterol lowering statin.

So in addition to sticking with a healthy diet and daily exercise, she has a new prescription for change.

Mitchell tested negative for the so-called heart attack gene.

She paid around $150 for the testing which the head of the American Heart Association has said is not quite ready for routine use.