DNA from 23andMe

My DNA has been analyzed by at least 4 different companies including FamilytreeDNA and others. The most interesting is the report from the latest test from 23andMe. That's the company that focuses primarily on health issues. So now I know what diseases or conditions I have a genetic propensity to acquire or carry already. It doesn't mean that as I sit here, I should worry obsessively about the results, but I will definitely say that the reports are pretty reassuring as to many health issues that were (and may still be) a possibility. The fact that I have successfully survived the last 60 years relatively unscathed is pretty good news! It's the next 60 years that I'm a little concerned about...

There's one aspect of the 23andMe test that is particularly intriguing. It just so happens that I have a very high percentage of some very ancient DNA. As a matter of fact, it puts me in the 88th percentile of people of European descent who have Neanderthal DNA! I'm 3% Neanderthal! I no longer have to wonder why I possess certain physical "characteristics"! I'm not talking about a thick uni-brow or a short forehead or even a small head! I don't know what language, if any, they spoke but I certainly don't speak it!!

I guess I'm really not sure what it means other than the facts as they revealed themselves in the scientific analysis. It won't change my life; it doesn't explain any of my talents or abilities, limited as they may be; it doesn't have any affect on me whatsoever other than the fact that I just ordered a polo shirt with the "3% NEANDERTHAL DNA" emblazoned on the chest.