Whether you’re at risk from MTHFR

MTHFR is an abbreviation for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, which is a common genetic mutation. People who have this mutation are more likely to develop certain health problems, such as ovarian cancer, and it generally impairs the body's ability to process folate and other B vitamins.

Surprisingly, the MTHFR mutation has the potential to affect your body's response to platinum-based chemotherapy. This variant is available for testing through the 23andMe DNA testing service. If you are diagnosed with it, dietary supplementation or eating foods high in folate may help reduce your risk.