Do you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer? If it is a yes, there is a chance that you might have inherited gene variants indicating a predisposition to cancer. It is highly recommended to get a BRCA gene test to identify BRCA mutants or variants.
BRCA Gene 1 and 2 are tumor suppressor genes that help in suppressing cancer formation. However, mutation or variation in the BRCA gene increases the risk of the development of breast and ovarian cancer. The preventive cancer genetic testing cost in India helps in identifying the presence of variants and taking further counselling for positive tests results.
The connection between BRCA and Cancer
It is crucial to know the connection between BRCA variants and how they can lead to cancer formation. The variation or mutation alters the ability of the BRCA gene to act as a tumor suppressor. The BRCA variation hence increases the risk of formation of different forms of cancer of the breast, ovarian and prostate.
The BRCA1 gene mutation increases the risk of breast cancer whereas mutation in the BRCA2 gene increases the risk of ovarian cancer. According to some research, it is found that mutation in the BRCA2 gene also increases the risk of development of pancreatic and prostate cancer in men. Since the BRCA variant is inherited, the BRCA screening in India is important for someone with a family history of cancer or with symptoms of breast or ovarian cancer.
Analysis of Genetic Testing through High Throughput Sequencing
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 test cost in India is quite affordable in most of the established labs with state infrastructure facilities for genetic screening. The BRCA test measures small variations or alterations in the gene like a missing copy of nucleotide or an added copy. There are different types of changes or alterations that can lead to gene mutation.
The established lab’s screen for the gene with help of advanced and high throughput sequencing to identify any alterations. The process mostly screen for deletion of DNA leading to frameshift mutation or simply addition or deletion of base pairs or nucleotides.
Advantage of Getting a BRCA Gene Screening
Prevention is better than cure and it is true for all diseases and conditions. The onset of cancer is traumatic and results in expensive therapy and treatment until recovery. However, with affordable BRCA Test cost India, it helps in timely intervention and seeks prevention. If tested positive for BRCA gene mutation, further genetic counselling helps with preventive measures.
- BRCA screening helps in finding if an individual has variation in the gene or not. If you come from a family with a history of breast cancer or ovarian, the test helps in finding if you have cancer predisposition or not.
- Take preventive measures with help of change in lifestyle and medication to reduce chances of cancer.
- Seek genetic counselling to make the right decision in case the test results are positive. With help of professional genetic counselling, it makes it easy to take further courses of action.
- Take necessary preventive measures like mastectomy or removal of ovaries to prevent it from becoming cancerous.
Affordability of the BRCA Test in India
The best lab for BRCA test in India conducts BRCA test at an affordable price of Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000. It is not only the test but complete pre and posts genetic counselling by a certified counsellor. This helps in simplifying the understanding of the process and its importance. The prices however may vary depending on the lab location, infrastructure, and technology. In comparison to cancer treatment, BRCA screening cost is quite affordable across entire India.
