BRCA1 & BRCA2 Plus – Genetic testing for breast cancer

BRCA1 & BRCA2 Plus is a genetic test for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. It examines, in detail, the DNA code for 9 genes which are known to cause an increased risk of breast cancer and it is  performed on a blood sample.

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?

Individuals with hereditary breast cancer generally show one or more of the following clues:

• Triple negative breast cancer
• Breast cancer diagnosed before the age of 45
• Bilateral breast cancer (cancer in both breasts)
• Relatives with ovarian, prostate, pancreatic cancer or 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.

Do I have to be tested for the whole gene panel?

No, if you wish you can choose to be tested for some or all the 9 genes in the panel. The number of genes tested will not affect the testing time or pricing.

What will the test show?

There are three possible results:

1. A mutation is found in one of the genes which is known to increase the risk of breast cancer. This may change the treatment of your current cancer. Increased screening and/or risk-reducing techniques will be recommended.
2. 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.
3. 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 will explain why you have developed breast cancer and 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 BRCA1 & BRCA2 Plus is £1400 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

Book your consultation now