BreastGene – Genetic testing for breast cancer
Download the BreastGene brochure
BreastGene looks at 10 genes which cause an increased
risk of breast cancer.
The following genes are tested:
BreastGene is a genetic test for breast cancer. It examines, in detail, the DNA code for 9 genes which are known to cause an increased risk of breast cancer. It is performed on a blood sample and, if possible, it is more informative to also test a relative who has had breast cancer.
What is hereditary breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Unfortunately, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime; with 80% being diagnosed after the age of 50. 1 in 868 men will also be diagnosed with breast cancer. Most breast cancer occurs by chance, however approximately 5-10% is hereditary and in some families, ovarian cancer can be genetically related to breast cancer. In families where breast cancer is hereditary it may be possible to find the genetic change (mutation) which is responsible for the cancer. This allows for appropriate cancer screening and risk-reducing options.
How do I know if I am at risk?
Families with hereditary breast cancer generally show one or more of the following clues:
- Several relatives with breast cancer
- Breast cancer diagnosed before the age of 45
- Bilateral breast cancer (cancer in both breasts)
- Ovarian cancer
- Increased frequencies of other cancers such as prostate and pancreatic cancer
- Triple negative breast cancer
- Male breast cancer
- Jewish ancestry
How can genetic testing help?
Genetic testing can help determine the risk of cancer within a family and guide appropriate cancer screening. Depending on the specific genetic risk, different screening tests can be arranged, and risk-reducing strategies can be considered.
What will the test show?
There are three possible results:
- A mutation is found in one of the genes which is known to increase the risk of breast cancer. Increased screening and/or risk-reducing techniques will be recommended.
- A genetic variation is found (known as a variant of uncertain significance or VUS), but whether or not this is the definite cause of cancer is unknown. Screening will be recommended based on the family history.
- No mutation is found. It is possible that there may be an undetectable mutation or a mutation in a different gene. Cancer screening may still be beneficial.
What does it mean if I have a mutation?
If you have a mutation this means that you have an increased risk of breast cancer and possibly other cancers. Your exact risk(s) will depend on which gene mutation has been found. Extra screening and/or risk-reducing strategies will be discussed. It will also be possible to offer predictive testing to other people in your family to see if they also have the mutation.
Price
The cost for BreastGene is £1500 which includes pre and post-test genetic counselling.
Book an initial 1 hour consultation for only £150 and find out if you are at risk
Insurance & financial information
Some individuals may be concerned about difficulties obtaining insurance coverage following genetic testing. This does not need to be a concern as the Code on Genetic Testing and Insurance ensures that individuals do not have to disclose cancer predictive test results. More information can be found at https://www.abi.org.uk/globalassets/files/publications/public/genetics/code-on-genetic-testing-and-insurance_embargoed.pdf
If you have a family history of cancer
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