AS Watson Group has entered into an exclusive partnership agreement with genetics and digital-health company Prenetics in Asia and Europe.

The strategic partnership involves the launch of Circle DNA, a comprehensive DNA test that delivers more than 500 reports from a single saliva sample. The concept focuses on prevention instead of treatment and is based on Prenetics’ Whole Exome Sequencing Technology, which boasts 99.9-per-cent validated analytical accuracy and providing 50–100 times more data than competing products using genotyping technology.

The Circle DNA product provides a comprehensive view and analysis of an individual’s DNA, along with actionable recommendations via a mobile app. At launch, Circle DNA introduces four types of home testing kits (Vital, Family Planning, Health and Premium) to provide personalised assessments and solution tools on nutrigenomics, pharmacogenomics, inherited cancer screening and family planning screening. Every test comes with a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation by a genetic counsellor/health coach.

“Our customers in Asia are increasingly health conscious and they look for preventive health solutions for themselves, and their families,” said AS Watson Group COO Malina Ngai. “In the last 12 months, our health business has been growing high double digits in Asia. We also recognise that time is becoming more precious for all our customers, hence the demand for innovative health products and services that can help improve their health conditions in a convenient way is on the rise.”

Watsons Hong Kong is the first market in Asia to launch Circle DNA in its network of over 240 stores, and it will also be available online at www.watsons.com.hk. After the premiere in Hong Kong, Watsons is planning to introduce Circle DNA in other markets where it operates. 

AS Watson Group is the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer operating more than 15,200 stores under 12 retail brands in 25 markets.