OvarianGene - Genetic testing for ovarian cancer
Download the OvarianGene brochure
OvarianGene looks at 9 genes which cause an
increased risk of ovarian cancer.
The following genes are tested:
OvarianGene is a genetic test which examines the DNA code for 9 genes known to cause an increased risk of ovarian cancer. It is performed on a saliva sample and if possible it is more informative to test a relative who has had ovarian cancer first.
What is hereditary ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women. In the general population women have a 1.5% risk of ovarian cancer, with 75% being diagnosed after the age of 55. When ovarian cancer is diagnosed at an early stage more than 90% of women survive more than 5 years, however, sadly this drops to only 5% in those diagnosed at a later stage. Most ovarian cancers occur by chance, however up to 20% is hereditary and in some families it may be possible to find the genetic change (mutation) which is responsible for the cancer. This allows appropriate cancer screening and risk- reducing options.
How do I know if I am at risk?
Families with hereditary ovarian cancer generally show one or more of the following clues:
- Relative(s) with high grade serious ovarian cancer
- Breast cancer diagnosed before the age of 45/bilateral breast cancer/male breast cancer
- "Triple negative" breast cancer
- Jewish ancestry and a history of breast/ovarian/prostate cancer
- Bowel/womb cancer diagnosed at a young age (before the age of 50)
- Multiple relatives with the same type of cancer (bowel, ovarian, womb, breast, prostate, pancreatic)
It is important to be aware that hereditary ovarian cancer can be present on either the maternal (mother’s) or paternal (father’s) side of the family.
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 3 possible results:
- A mutation is found in one of the genes which is known to increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Increased screening and/or risk-reducing techniques will be recommended.
- A genetic variation is found, 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/risk reducing techniques may still be beneficial.
What does it mean if I have a mutation?
Price
The cost for OvarianGene is £1500 which includes pre- and post-test counselling.
Book an initial 1 hour consultation for only £150 and find out if you are at risk
Insurance and 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
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If you have a family history of cancer
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