This test could be very useful in helping diagnose low back pain, which is a diagnostic dilemma at best. Very often MRIs are not sensitive enough to show a problem with the disk, even if a person has the classic symptoms of sciatica. If you can use a genetic test, you are going to be able to make a more accurate diagnosis. I suspect that this will become a test that is done to help diagnose low back pain. You can take steps to decrease your risk of a slipped disk.
Smoking is also a risk factor.
Seems like no matter what the disease, we also say not to smoke. But it is not gratuitous here.