Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in women but there is less awareness of it being an inherited cancer form. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants inherited from parents to offspring highly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Cancer gene testing helps in the early detection of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and takes the necessary preventive measure, if necessary.
Importance of BRCA Screening as Preventive Measure
The BRCA test is an important genetic screening that identifies the risk of the predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer. The BRCA1 and 2 genes are tumor suppressor genes and any variation prevents it from repairing DNA damage, increasing the risk of cancer.
It is a form of preventive genetic testing for breast cancer as it helps with the early detection of the presence of mutations and its associated risk of cancer. If the test results are positive for BRCA mutation, a personalized approach and treatment plan is devised with help of genetic counselling by certified experts.
The mutation carriers have a high risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer as compared to individuals with no mutation. The positive result helps in making an informed decision as a precaution either through a change in lifestyle or drugs like PARP inhibitors. The treatment with the new class of drugs helps in fixing DNA damage and treating cancer in individuals with BRCA mutations.
The surgical preventive measures are recommended for women with high risk. This involves removal of the breast (mastectomy) or removal of ovaries (prophylactic oophorectomy) as a precaution to prevent the occurrence of cancer.
Preparing for the Genetic Testing
The genetic testing for the breast cancer gene is done by drawing a blood sample and extracting the gene sequence for the test. However, it is the emotional aspect of the genetic test which makes it difficult for most people. The anxiety and fear of the results from the test make it quite complicated. Here are the ways to prepare for genetic screening.
- Meet a genetic counsellor before the test to get detailed information on the test, potential risks, and benefits of the genetic testing.
- Gather all the information regarding the medical history of the family, especially close relatives, and previous records.
- Prepare mentally and emotionally for both the positive and negative consequences. The cancer hereditary disease test in draining, get help and support from genetic counsellor, family, and friends.
Affordable and Reliable BRCA Genetic Testing
The genetic testing cost for BRCA is cost-effective with most advanced genetic diagnostic labs providing pre and post-genetic counselling. The high throughput sequencing technology help with accurate diagnosis starting from Rs 15,000 and might extend up to Rs 30,000. The cost varies depending on location, services provided, the technology used, and the number of genes screened. The turnaround time for the test results are around 3 to 4 weeks but it is produced with high sensitivity and accuracy.
The BRCA testing cost in India is cost-effective in the sense that if the results turn out to be positive, the preventive measures help in reducing the cost of cancer treatment. For individuals with the presence of BRCA mutations or variants, personalized treatment and therapy are planned after undergoing a couple of more genetic tests.
